If you’re managing a property for a game species, predator control is extremely important – they’re your competition. Controlling the amount of coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, skunks and other varmints is typically done by hunting or trapping. During the winter can be the best time for both, hunting or trapping simply because their food is scarcer now than at other times, especially in the north where a blanket of snow covers most food sources. That means they’re easier to call-in and easier to fool with a trap.
Calling requires a flat shooting rifle or tight patterned shotgun and either some mouth calls or an electronic call. Trapping requires many more tools. One of the delays in getting to the field and being an efficient trapper is trap preparation and dyeing, waxing and “aging” your traps or snares. You can use snare and trap dip that is a clear and that wears like iron and your traps can be used after 24 hours. It works great on new, painted, dyed or un-dyed traps and snares and takes odors away in addition to preventing rust.
Photo courtesy of Dennis Donahue
This conservation tip courtesy of the Wildlife Obsession Newsletter.
