Humane Wildlife Trapping

Trapping is one of the most common ways of capturing and removing wildlife from a property. However, trapping can be an inhumane wildlife control method when done wrongly. This post explores all you need to know about humane wildlife trapping.

Why is humane wildlife trapping necessary?

So who cares if animals are treated inhumanely? With our sophisticated faculties as humans, we have realized the importance of treating nature with respect. This involves treating animals with respect, even when they constitute a nuisance – that’s the honorable thing to do! 

Unsurprising, several wildlife policies – especially in the western world – are increasingly geared toward the proper treatment of wild animals. 

One such example is the restriction of steel-jaw traps in many US states, including Florida. Although steel-jaw traps are very effective for catching (or killing) a wide range of wildlife – like raccoons, coyotes, squirrels, opossums, and more – they work by clamping down the animal’s paw or limb. As the animal struggles to escape, its condition is worsened as deeper cuts are made. Even worse is the possibility of killing a mother, separating her from her babies, or catching unintended wildlife. 

Glue traps are another example of inhumane traps. They are used for capturing rodents (rats and mice). When the rodent steps on the board, the adhesive on the board secures its legs. As the rodent tries to escape, it becomes more engrossed in the glue. Unless the captor kills the animal quickly, it can be left to struggle for days. 

However, humane wildlife trapping prevents all these problems because it ensures that the animal is removed with the least possible disruption. 

Examples of humane trapping options

Different kinds of humane traps have been developed to avoid the problems associated with inhumane traps. Some common examples include:

• Live traps

Live traps are cages that are used to capture and relocate wildlife like squirrels, raccoons, and birds. They are considered humane because they are carefully designed not to injure animals. 

An appropriate bait is selected depending on the intended animal to be captured. The bait lures the animal into the cage. Once it tries to pick up the bait, the cage closes. The animal remains in the cage until the trapper comes to release it. 

Note that live traps can also be used inhumanely. For instance, improper setting of the trap can result in injury. Moreover, abandoning the cage can mean a captured animal remains there for a long time. That’s why it’s crucial to inspect live traps at least once a day to take the appropriate next steps promptly. 

• Snap and electric traps

Snap traps are one of the oldest rat traps. They work by delivering a lethal blow on the rat or mouse once it tries to pick up the bait. However, the trap can severely injure the animal without killing it, causing unnecessary pain and suffering if set incorrectly. 

In recent years, electric traps have been gaining wider adoption. They work by delivering a lethal dose of electric shock to the captured animal. Killing the rodent quickly and effectively is humane. 

Humane Wildlife Trapping with Metro Wildlife and Pest Control

Effectively and humanely trapping wildlife requires expert knowledge of animal behavior and trapping principles. Over the years, our trappers at Metro Wildlife and Pest Control have honed the necessary skills for trapping success. Little wonder residents of North Carolina, South Carolina, Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida trust us for their trapping needs. Some of what set us apart include:

• A thorough investigation of the animals invading your property 
• Development of the appropriate control or trapping plans. 
• Strategic placement of the trap
• Regular monitoring of the trap to ensure captured animals are promptly relocated.
• Removal of the animal from your property.
• Putting measures in place to ensure the infestation problem doesn’t reoccur.

Contact us today, and we’ll gladly take care of your issue to remove and relocate wildlife humanely.