Trapping
the Truth
About
Debunking common myths
surrounding trapping and
setting the record straight
By Cameron Pauli
Digital media specialist
In addition to facing external threats from anti-hunting groups, trappers often have to deal
with scrutiny from other sportsmen who do not participate in or understand trapping. Many
of the arguments made against the activity are based on fabricated claims distributed by
organizations who oppose hunting and trapping altogether. Below we address four trapping
myths and provide you with the truth that can be used to set the record straight.
Myth #1
Myth #2
The Truth: Most traps are unique to a specific
species or group of similar-sized species,
and may even have features that prevent
incidental take of non-target species
altogether. Dog-proof raccoon traps are an
excellent example of an effective trap the
industry designed to address incidental take
among coon trappers. The design of the trap
only allows for coons, which have a much
higher level of dexterity than other mammals,
to trigger the mechanism which locks a cuff
onto the raccoon’s wrist.
The Bottom Line: Trappers avoid incidental take
by using appropriate equipment and making
strategic sets in locations that reduce the
likelihood of trapping a non-target species.
The Truth: Very few traps have the ability to
seriously injury a dog, much less kill one. “If you’re
reasonably close to your dog, it is highly unlikely
that any damage would be done to a dog’s paw
should it become stuck in a foot trap,” explains
Sportsmen’s Alliance member Mike Traub. Traub,
who is both an avid upland bird hunter and
trapper of 40-plus years, recommends that dog
owners carry a small pair of cable cutters to free
a dog stuck in a snare. “Carrying cable cutters is
good insurance. No trapper I know would ever
intentionally trap somebody’s dog.”
The Bottom Line: Dog owners can protect their
dogs by keeping them under control, monitoring
their location and familiarizing themselves with the
functionality of different traps.
Traps often kill
non-target species.
Traps are a threat to bird
dogs and houndsmen
Myth #4
Trapping is an unnecessary activity passed
off as a “wildlife management tool.”
The Truth: Trapping is one of the most effective
management tools used by wildlife professionals
in North America. According to a report released
by the International Association of Fish and
Wildlife Agencies, hunting and trapping are
important management tools that help biologists
maintain healthy wildlife populations and
ecosystems. Managed trapping is a key tool that
allows them to achieve an acceptable balance
between wildlife populations and tolerance for
human-wildlife conflicts. Beavers, woodchucks
Types of Traps
Cage Trap
A versatile trap that is an excellent choice when an accidental
dog or cat catch seems likely. Cage traps can be used to catch
raccoons, opossums, muskrats, skunks, badgers and bobcats.
An excellent choice for beginners.
Body-Gripping Trap
This trap is usually used in underwater sets, and is highly regulated for
use on dry land. When properly set, the trap is meant to strike directly
behind the skull and across the throat for a quick and painless death.
Recommended for experienced trappers.
foothold Trap
Foothold traps allow a trapper to release non-target species and
come in a variety of sizes, making it very versatile. Foothold traps
should be the proper size for a target species.
Recommended for beginners.
Myth #3
Trapping is poorly regulated
The Truth: Trapping is one of the most regulated outdoor pursuits. Maine, for example, has a 328-page
document dedicated to their incidental take plan – just a fraction of their overall trapping regulations.
Trappers are often required to take a special course to obtain a license, and must update themselves
on changes made to the regulations and laws each year.
Trappers also work closely with wildlife professionals and biologists to ensure that the best laws and
practices are in place. In 1997, a committee of furbearer experts with the Association of Fish and
Wildlife A