Can body-grip traps cause harm to non-target animals?

Trap Design and Safety Features

Body-grip traps, commonly used for beaver control, consist of a steel jaw that shuts when triggered by a spring or other mechanism. To minimize harm to non-target animals, these traps should be equipped with safety features such as quick-release triggers and escape mechanisms. For example, the Conibear 220 body-grip trap, often used for beaver control, has a quick-release trigger that can be set to release the trap if a non-target animal, such as a raccoon or opossum, weighs less than a certain amount (typically around 5-10 pounds).

Setting and Checking Traps

To prevent harm to non-target animals, body-grip traps should be set and checked carefully. This involves setting the trap in a location where beavers are likely to pass through, such as near a dam or in a beaver lodge. The trap should be baited with a lure that attracts beavers, such as a piece of fish or a beaver-made stick. Traps should be checked frequently (ideally within 24 hours) to ensure that non-target animals have not been caught. If a non-target animal is caught, the trap should be reset with a new bait and lure to minimize further harm.

Regulations and Best Practices

Regulations regarding body-grip traps vary by region and country, so it’s essential to check local laws and guidelines before using these traps. In addition to following regulations, it’s also crucial to follow best practices when using body-grip traps, such as setting them in a way that minimizes harm to non-target animals. For example, setting multiple traps in a row can increase the risk of non-target animals getting caught.