Cage Traps

Cage traps also may be known as live traps. They are made of many different materials, come in different lengths, and have doors that vary in size.

Several different kinds, including colony traps, are popular for trapping muskrat.

• Trap size varies with a muskrat-sized opening on each end.
• The trap is placed underwater in a runway. The muskrat swims through the one-way swinging trap door. Mink sometimes swim into these traps as well.
• Several muskrats can be captured at one time.
• Trapped animals cannot escape through the one-way door. The animal soon suffocates.

Box/cage traps also may be used on land as live-restraining devices.

• Raccoons, skunks, opossums, and weasels can be caught in box traps. Foxes and coyotes may avoid box traps.
• Their large size can make these traps difficult to use. However, cage traps may be a good choice if you need to trap near buildings or in areas where domestic animals may wander.