Animal Trap Types for Survival

When you find yourself in the wild, knowing how to catch food can be a game changer. Trapping animals is one of the oldest survival skills, and it’s still very useful today. There are many ways to trap animals, and each method has its own advantages depending on the environment, the type of animal, and the gear you have. In this post, I’ll walk you through some of the most effective animal trapping methods, explain how they work, and give you tips on how to build and use them safely and efficiently.

Understanding Animal Trapping Methods

Before diving into specific traps, it’s important to understand the basics of animal trapping methods. The goal is to catch an animal either alive or dead with minimal effort once the trap is set. Traps can be passive, meaning they wait for the animal to trigger them, or active, where you need to check and reset them frequently.

Some common principles apply to all traps:

• Location: Set traps where animals are likely to pass, such as near water sources, trails, or feeding areas.

• Bait: Use food or scent to lure animals into the trap.

• Camouflage: Hide the trap well to avoid scaring animals away.

• Safety: Make sure traps are safe to handle and won’t injure you accidentally.

  
  

There are many animal trap types you can learn, but I’ll focus on the most practical ones for survival situations.

Simple snare trap in forest clearing

Common Animal Trapping Methods You Can Use

Snare Traps

Snares are one of the simplest and most effective traps you can make with minimal materials. They work by tightening a loop around the animal’s neck or leg when it passes through. You can make snares from wire, strong cord, or even natural fibers if you have no other options.

• How to set it up: Find a narrow trail or animal path, tie the snare loop to a sturdy branch or stake, and position the loop at the right height for the target animal.

• Best for: Small to medium-sized animals like rabbits, squirrels, and sometimes even larger game.

• Tips: Make sure the loop is smooth and can slide easily to tighten quickly. Check snares often to avoid unnecessary suffering.

  
  

Deadfall Traps

Deadfall traps use a heavy object, like a rock or log, that falls and crushes the animal when triggered. They require more setup but can be very effective for small animals.

• How to build: Prop up a heavy object with sticks arranged in a trigger mechanism. When the animal disturbs the trigger stick, the object falls.

• Best for: Rodents, rabbits, and other small animals.

• Tips: Use a bait to lure the animal under the deadfall. Make sure the trigger is sensitive enough to release but stable enough to hold the weight.

  
  

Figure Four Traps

This is a type of deadfall trap that uses a specific stick arrangement shaped like the number four to hold the weight. It’s a classic bushcraft trap that’s reliable once you master the setup.

• How to set it up: Arrange three sticks in a figure four shape to hold the deadfall weight. The animal’s movement releases the trigger stick.

• Best for: Small mammals.

• Tips: Practice the stick arrangement before heading out. It’s a great skill to have in your survival toolkit.

  
  

Figure four deadfall trap setup

Using Pitfall and Box Traps

Pitfall Traps

Pitfall traps are simple holes dug in the ground where animals fall in and can’t escape. They are easy to make but require some effort and time.

• How to build: Dig a hole deep enough so the animal can’t jump out. Cover the top with light branches or leaves to camouflage it.

• Best for: Small to medium animals that travel on the ground.

• Tips: Place bait inside the pit to attract animals. Check the trap regularly to avoid unnecessary harm.

  
  

Box Traps

Box traps are live traps that capture animals without harming them. They usually have a door that closes when the animal enters.

• How to build: Use wood or metal to create a box with a trigger mechanism that closes the door.

• Best for: Small animals like rabbits or squirrels.

• Tips: Use fresh bait and place the trap in a well-traveled area. Check the trap often to release or dispatch the animal humanely.

  
  

Safety and Ethical Considerations

When using any trapping method, safety and ethics should be top priorities. Traps can be dangerous if not handled properly, and causing unnecessary suffering to animals is something to avoid.

• Always wear gloves when handling traps to protect yourself.

• Mark your trap locations clearly to avoid accidents.

• Check traps frequently to minimize animal distress.

• Use traps only when necessary and in accordance with local laws and regulations.

• Learn how to dispatch animals humanely if you plan to use the catch for food.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Animal Trapping Methods

Mastering animal trapping methods can greatly increase your chances of survival in the wild. Each trap has its place depending on the situation, and knowing how to build and use them effectively is a valuable skill. Whether you’re relying on snares, deadfalls, pitfalls, or box traps, practice setting them up before you need them in a real survival scenario.

If you want to explore more about animal trap types and get quality gear to help you build and set traps, Running River Bushcraft is a great resource. They offer reliable bushcraft and camping equipment that can help you feel prepared and confident for your outdoor adventures.

Remember, trapping is just one part of survival skills, but it’s a practical and often necessary one. Keep learning, practicing, and stay safe out there.