How To Live Trap Bobcats

How to Live Trap Bobcats: A Comprehensive Guide

Trapping bobcats requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a deep understanding of bobcat behavior. This guide provides essential information for safely and effectively live-trapping these elusive felines. Remember, always check and comply with your local and state regulations before attempting to trap any animal. Penalties for illegal trapping can be severe.

Understanding Bobcat Behavior

Before you even consider setting a trap, understanding bobcat behavior is crucial for success. Bobcats are primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, meaning they're most active during dawn and dusk, and at night. Knowing their activity patterns will help you choose the best time to set your traps.

Key Behavioral Considerations:

• Scent: Bobcats have an exceptional sense of smell. Minimize human scent on and around your traps.
• Terrain: Bobcats prefer areas with cover, such as dense brush, rocky outcrops, and wooded areas. Place traps in these locations.
• Bait: The best bait varies depending on the location and time of year, but options might include fish, rabbit carcasses, or commercially available lures designed for bobcats. Experimentation and local knowledge are key here.
• Trail Cameras: Before setting traps, use trail cameras to identify bobcat activity patterns, preferred travel routes, and potential trap locations. This is essential for maximizing your chances of a successful capture.

Choosing the Right Trap

The type of trap you use is paramount. Live traps are mandatory for bobcat trapping. These traps are designed to capture animals without causing harm. Avoid using any type of snare or leg-hold trap.

Trap Specifications:

• Size: Ensure the trap is large enough to comfortably accommodate an adult bobcat.
• Material: Durable, high-quality materials are essential for preventing escape.
• Placement: Proper trap placement is critical. It needs to be hidden, secure, and situated along a known bobcat trail.

Setting the Trap

Once you’ve selected your trap and bait, setting it correctly is crucial for a safe and successful capture.

Step-by-Step Trap Setting:

1. Location: Choose a location with clear evidence of bobcat activity.
2. Camouflage: Cover the trap as much as possible to make it less conspicuous.
3. Bait Placement: Strategically place your bait to entice the bobcat into the trap.
4. Security: Ensure the trap is securely anchored to prevent displacement.
5. Monitoring: Check your traps regularly, ideally daily, to avoid prolonged confinement.

Handling a Captured Bobcat

Once you have a bobcat in your trap, handling it safely and responsibly is extremely important. You must prioritize both your safety and the animal's well-being.

Safe Handling Procedures:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear heavy gloves, sturdy boots, and eye protection. Consider using a heavy-duty net for extra safety.
• Calm Approach: Approach the trap slowly and cautiously. Avoid sudden movements.
• Transportation: Use a sturdy, appropriately sized transport crate for moving the bobcat.
• Relocation: Many areas have regulations regarding bobcat relocation. Contact your local wildlife agency for guidance on how to proceed legally and humanely. Never release a bobcat where it will not thrive.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Always obtain the necessary permits and licenses before trapping bobcats. Understand and adhere to all local, state, and federal regulations. Illegal trapping activities result in severe penalties. Respect the animal, and handle it with care. Your actions should prioritize its welfare.

This guide provides a solid foundation for live trapping bobcats. However, consider seeking guidance from experienced trappers or wildlife professionals in your area. Their local knowledge and expertise can significantly increase your success rate and ensure you conduct this activity responsibly. Remember, safety and ethical considerations should always be your top priority.