Make A Snare Trap: A Step-by-Step Survival Guide

Snare traps are primitive yet effective tools for capturing wild animals, offering a survival advantage in wilderness scenarios. Whether you're an avid outdoorsman, a survivalist preparing for emergencies, or simply curious about traditional trapping methods, understanding how to construct a snare trap can be an invaluable skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential principles of snare traps, the materials you'll need, step-by-step instructions for building various types of snares, crucial considerations for trap placement and legality, and ethical trapping practices.

Understanding the Principles of Snare Traps

Before diving into the construction of snare traps, it's crucial to grasp the underlying principles that make them work. At its core, a snare trap functions by creating a loop that tightens around an animal's limb or neck when triggered. This tightening action restrains the animal, preventing its escape. The effectiveness of a snare trap hinges on several key factors, including the loop's size and placement, the trigger mechanism's sensitivity, and the overall strength and durability of the materials used.

The loop size is paramount in determining the target animal. A loop too large may allow smaller animals to escape, while a loop too small may not capture larger animals effectively. The loop's placement is equally critical. Snares should be positioned in areas where animals are likely to travel, such as along game trails, near water sources, or at the entrances to burrows. The height of the loop should also correspond to the size of the intended quarry, ensuring that the animal steps or puts its head into the noose.

The trigger mechanism is the heart of the snare trap, dictating when and how the loop tightens. Various trigger mechanisms exist, ranging from simple gravity-based systems to more complex designs involving sticks, levers, and pins. The sensitivity of the trigger mechanism is crucial. It should be responsive enough to activate when an animal interacts with it but not so sensitive that it triggers accidentally due to wind or small debris.

The materials used to construct a snare trap must be strong and durable enough to withstand the forces exerted by a struggling animal. Traditional snare materials include natural fibers like plant roots, vines, and animal sinew. Modern materials, such as wire, cable, and paracord, offer increased strength and resistance to wear and tear. The choice of materials often depends on the available resources and the target animal's size and strength.

Understanding these fundamental principles is essential for building effective and humane snare traps. By carefully considering loop size, placement, trigger mechanism, and materials, you can significantly increase your chances of success while minimizing the risk of injury to non-target animals.

Gathering Essential Materials

Constructing a functional snare trap requires careful selection of appropriate materials. The materials you choose will significantly impact the snare's strength, durability, and overall effectiveness. Both natural and modern materials can be used, each offering distinct advantages and disadvantages. The best choice depends on the resources available, the target animal, and the intended use of the snare.

Natural materials were the primary choice for snares in traditional trapping. These materials are readily available in many environments, making them ideal for survival situations. Common natural materials include strong vines, flexible tree roots, and animal sinew. Vines, such as those from grapevines or wisteria, can be incredibly robust and pliable, making them suitable for crafting snare loops. Tree roots, particularly those from coniferous trees, often possess a similar combination of strength and flexibility. Animal sinew, the tendons and ligaments of animals, is another excellent natural material for snare construction due to its exceptional tensile strength.

When using natural materials, it's crucial to select healthy, undamaged specimens. Inspect vines and roots for signs of rot, insect damage, or weakness. Animal sinew should be thoroughly dried and processed to remove excess tissue and prevent decomposition. Preparing natural materials often involves soaking, stripping, and twisting them to enhance their strength and durability.

Modern materials offer several advantages over natural alternatives, including increased strength, resistance to weathering, and ease of use. Wire, particularly snare wire made from galvanized or stainless steel, is a popular choice for snare traps due to its high tensile strength and resistance to corrosion. Cable, such as aircraft cable, provides even greater strength for capturing larger animals. Paracord, a nylon rope consisting of multiple strands, is another versatile material that can be used for snare construction. Its high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to abrasion make it a reliable choice.

In addition to the primary snare material, you'll need other tools and supplies to build a complete snare trap. A knife or multi-tool is essential for cutting and shaping materials. Cordage, such as rope or twine, may be needed for attaching the snare to an anchor point or creating a trigger mechanism. Sticks or branches are often used to construct the support structure for the snare and to fashion trigger mechanisms. Finally, flagging tape or other markers can be helpful for identifying the location of your snares, especially in dense vegetation.

When gathering materials for snare traps, it's crucial to prioritize sustainability and minimize environmental impact. Harvest natural materials responsibly, taking only what you need and avoiding damage to the surrounding ecosystem. Dispose of any waste materials properly and avoid leaving behind any trace of your presence. By practicing responsible resource management, you can ensure the long-term viability of trapping as a survival skill.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Basic Snare

Constructing a basic snare trap involves a few fundamental steps that can be adapted to various environments and target animals. This simple snare, often referred to as a figure-four snare, utilizes a gravity-activated trigger mechanism and can be built with readily available materials. By mastering the basic principles of this design, you'll gain a solid foundation for building more complex snare traps.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, gather the necessary materials. You'll need a length of snare material, such as wire, cable, or paracord, approximately 3-4 feet long. You'll also need three sticks: a trigger stick (about 6-8 inches long), a vertical support stick (about 12-18 inches long), and a horizontal support stick (about 8-12 inches long). These sticks should be relatively straight and sturdy. A knife or multi-tool will be helpful for shaping the sticks and cutting the snare material.

Step 2: Form the Noose

Create a loop at one end of your snare material. The size of the loop will depend on the target animal; a smaller loop is suitable for smaller animals, while a larger loop is necessary for larger animals. Secure the loop by tying a knot, such as a slip knot or overhand knot, ensuring that the loop can tighten smoothly when pulled. Test the loop by pulling on the free end of the snare material to confirm that it tightens effectively.

Step 3: Prepare the Trigger Stick

Shape the trigger stick to create a notch or groove near one end. This notch will serve as the point of contact with the vertical support stick. The notch should be deep enough to hold the vertical support stick securely but shallow enough to release it with minimal force. Use your knife or multi-tool to carefully carve the notch, ensuring that it has a clean, defined edge.

Step 4: Prepare the Vertical Support Stick

Shape the vertical support stick to create a point at one end and a notch or groove near the other end. The pointed end will be inserted into the ground, providing a stable base for the snare. The notch at the other end will engage with the trigger stick, holding the snare in the set position. Similar to the trigger stick, the notch should be carefully carved to ensure a secure yet sensitive connection.

Step 5: Prepare the Horizontal Support Stick

The horizontal support stick serves as the anchor point for the snare loop. Tie the free end of the snare material to this stick, ensuring a secure connection. The horizontal support stick will be positioned horizontally, with the snare loop hanging down in the desired location.

Step 6: Set the Snare

To set the snare, first, insert the pointed end of the vertical support stick into the ground, ensuring it stands upright. Next, position the horizontal support stick so that the snare loop hangs in the desired location. Now, carefully engage the trigger stick with the vertical support stick, placing the notched end of the trigger stick against the notch on the vertical support stick. The trigger stick should be positioned horizontally, extending outward from the snare loop.

Step 7: Attach the Snare Loop

Finally, suspend the snare loop from the trigger stick. This can be done by draping the loop over the trigger stick or by using a small twig or piece of cordage to attach the loop to the trigger stick. The goal is to position the loop so that it hangs freely and will tighten when the trigger stick is dislodged.

Step 8: Test and Adjust

Before leaving your snare, test the trigger mechanism to ensure it functions correctly. Gently touch or nudge the trigger stick to simulate an animal interacting with the snare. The trigger stick should dislodge easily, causing the snare loop to tighten. If the snare doesn't trigger smoothly, make adjustments to the notches on the sticks or the position of the snare loop. Repeat this process until you are confident that the snare will function effectively.

By following these steps, you can build a basic snare trap that can be used to capture small to medium-sized animals. Remember to check your snares regularly and adhere to all local trapping regulations.

Types of Snare Traps

While the basic snare trap provides a solid foundation, various other snare designs cater to different situations and target animals. Each type of snare trap utilizes a unique trigger mechanism and setup, offering advantages in specific scenarios. Understanding the different types of snare traps allows you to adapt your trapping strategy to the environment and the animals you're trying to catch.

1. The Figure-Four Snare:

As discussed in the previous section, the figure-four snare is a classic and versatile trap known for its simplicity and effectiveness. Its gravity-activated trigger mechanism, consisting of three interlocking sticks, makes it relatively easy to construct with readily available materials. The figure-four snare is particularly well-suited for capturing small to medium-sized animals, such as rabbits, squirrels, and rodents. Its compact design and ease of concealment make it an excellent choice for areas with dense vegetation or limited space.

2. The Twitch-Up Snare:

The twitch-up snare is a more powerful trap that utilizes a bent sapling or branch to create a spring-loaded trigger mechanism. This type of snare is ideal for capturing larger animals, such as deer or wild pigs. To construct a twitch-up snare, a flexible sapling is bent over and secured with a trigger mechanism. When an animal triggers the snare, the sapling snaps back, pulling the snare loop tight with significant force. The twitch-up snare requires careful construction and placement due to its power and potential for injury. It's crucial to ensure that the sapling is securely anchored and that the trigger mechanism is properly set to prevent accidental triggering.

3. The Suspended Snare:

The suspended snare, also known as a hanging snare, is designed to capture animals that walk along trails or pathways. This type of snare is particularly effective for catching animals like rabbits, foxes, and coyotes. The suspended snare consists of a loop suspended from a tree branch or other overhead structure. The loop is positioned at the animal's head or neck height, and a trigger mechanism is used to tighten the loop when the animal passes through it. Suspended snares require careful placement to ensure that the animal enters the loop correctly. The loop's size and height should be adjusted to match the target animal, and the surrounding vegetation should be cleared to prevent the animal from circumventing the snare.

4. The Treading Snare:

The treading snare, also called a ground snare, is designed to capture animals that step on a trigger mechanism. This type of snare is often used to catch small to medium-sized animals, such as rodents and birds. The treading snare consists of a loop placed on the ground, with a trigger mechanism buried beneath the surface. When an animal steps on the trigger, the loop tightens around its foot or leg. Treading snares require careful concealment to prevent animals from detecting and avoiding them. The trigger mechanism should be buried shallowly, and the surrounding area should be camouflaged with natural materials.

5. The Self-Locking Snare:

The self-locking snare is a variation of the basic snare that incorporates a locking mechanism to prevent the loop from loosening. This type of snare is particularly effective for capturing strong animals that may be able to escape from a traditional snare. The self-locking snare utilizes a one-way sliding mechanism that allows the loop to tighten but prevents it from loosening. This mechanism can be constructed using various materials, such as metal rings, bone fragments, or specially shaped sticks. Self-locking snares are more complex to build than basic snares but offer increased holding power.

By understanding the different types of snare traps and their unique characteristics, you can select the most appropriate snare for your specific trapping needs. Each snare type has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the environment, the target animal, and your skill level.

Trap Placement and Legality

Effective trap placement is crucial for maximizing your success rate and minimizing the risk of capturing non-target animals. Selecting the right location for your snare traps requires careful observation of animal behavior and habitat. Additionally, it's essential to be aware of and comply with all local trapping regulations to ensure that your trapping activities are legal and ethical.

Identifying Ideal Locations

Successful trap placement begins with identifying areas where animals are likely to travel. Look for signs of animal activity, such as tracks, trails, droppings, and feeding areas. Game trails, well-worn paths used by animals to move between different habitats, are prime locations for snare traps. These trails often follow natural contours in the landscape, such as ridges, valleys, and waterways. Positioning snares along game trails increases the likelihood that an animal will encounter your trap.

Water sources, such as streams, ponds, and springs, are also attractive locations for snare traps. Animals often visit water sources daily, making them predictable areas for trapping. Position snares near the water's edge, along animal trails leading to the water, or at the entrances to burrows or dens near the water source.

Feeding areas, such as meadows, fields, and forests with abundant food sources, can also be productive locations for snare traps. Identify areas where animals are actively feeding, and position your snares along trails leading to and from these areas. Pay attention to the types of food available and the animals that are likely to be attracted to them.

In addition to these general guidelines, consider the specific habits and behaviors of your target animal. For example, rabbits often use established runways through dense vegetation, while foxes may follow the edges of fields and forests. By understanding the behavior of your target animal, you can tailor your trap placement to increase your chances of success.

Legal Considerations

Trapping regulations vary widely depending on the location and the target species. Before setting any snares, it's crucial to be familiar with the trapping laws in your area. These laws may specify the types of traps that are permitted, the seasons during which trapping is allowed, and the areas where trapping is prohibited.

Many jurisdictions require trappers to obtain a trapping license or permit before setting traps. These licenses often come with specific regulations regarding trap placement, trap checking frequency, and reporting requirements. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, penalties, and even the loss of trapping privileges.

Some areas may have restrictions on the types of animals that can be trapped. Endangered or protected species are often off-limits, and there may be limits on the number of animals that can be harvested. It's essential to be able to identify the animals in your area and to avoid trapping non-target species.

Trap placement regulations may also specify the distance that traps must be set from roads, trails, and dwellings. These regulations are designed to protect people and domestic animals from accidental encounters with traps. Be sure to check the local regulations for specific requirements in your area.

Ethical Trapping Practices

In addition to legal considerations, ethical trapping practices are essential for ensuring the humane treatment of animals. Ethical trappers strive to minimize the suffering of captured animals and to avoid capturing non-target species. This involves selecting appropriate traps, placing traps in the right locations, and checking traps regularly.

Use humane traps that are designed to kill or restrain animals quickly and effectively. Avoid using traps that are likely to cause prolonged suffering or injury. Set traps in locations where they are likely to capture the target animal and less likely to capture non-target species.

Check your traps regularly, preferably daily, to minimize the amount of time an animal spends in the trap. Promptly dispatch any captured animals humanely. If you capture a non-target animal, release it unharmed if possible. If the animal is injured, seek veterinary assistance or humanely euthanize it.

By following ethical trapping practices, you can ensure that your trapping activities are conducted in a responsible and humane manner. This helps to protect animal populations and maintain the long-term viability of trapping as a survival skill.

Ethical Trapping Practices

Ethical trapping is a cornerstone of responsible wilderness survival and wildlife management. It involves a commitment to minimizing animal suffering, avoiding non-target captures, and adhering to all applicable laws and regulations. Practicing ethical trapping not only ensures the humane treatment of animals but also helps to maintain the long-term sustainability of trapping as a valuable survival skill.

Minimizing Animal Suffering

The primary goal of ethical trapping is to minimize the suffering of captured animals. This involves selecting traps that are designed to kill or restrain animals quickly and effectively. Kill traps, such as snares designed to constrict the neck or body, should be set to ensure a swift and humane death. Restraining traps, such as foothold traps, should be used with caution and checked frequently to minimize the amount of time an animal spends in the trap.

When using restraining traps, consider the type of trap and the size of the target animal. Use traps that are appropriately sized for the target species and that have padded jaws to reduce the risk of injury. Check restraining traps frequently, preferably daily, to minimize the animal's stress and discomfort.

If you capture an animal that is severely injured or cannot be released unharmed, humanely euthanize it. Various methods of humane euthanasia are available, including shooting, blunt force trauma, and chemical methods. Choose a method that is appropriate for the size and species of the animal and that you are comfortable performing.

Avoiding Non-Target Captures

Non-target captures, the unintentional trapping of animals that are not the intended target, are a significant concern in ethical trapping. To minimize non-target captures, carefully consider the placement of your traps and the types of traps you use. Avoid setting traps in areas where non-target species are likely to be present.

Use traps that are species-specific, meaning they are designed to capture only the target animal. For example, if you are trapping rabbits, use snares that are sized and positioned to capture rabbits but not larger animals like foxes or deer. Consider using bait or lures that are attractive to the target animal but not to non-target species.

If you capture a non-target animal, release it unharmed if possible. Handle the animal gently and avoid causing it unnecessary stress or injury. If the animal is injured, seek veterinary assistance or humanely euthanize it if necessary.

Adhering to Laws and Regulations

Ethical trapping includes strict adherence to all applicable laws and regulations. Trapping regulations vary depending on the location and the target species, so it's crucial to be familiar with the laws in your area. Obtain any necessary licenses or permits before setting traps, and comply with all regulations regarding trap types, trap placement, trap checking frequency, and reporting requirements.

Respect private property rights and obtain permission before trapping on private land. Avoid setting traps in areas where trapping is prohibited, such as parks, wildlife refuges, and residential areas. Report any violations of trapping regulations to the appropriate authorities.

Promoting Ethical Trapping

Ethical trappers are ambassadors for responsible wildlife management. By practicing ethical trapping and promoting it to others, you can help to ensure that trapping remains a valuable survival skill and a sustainable wildlife management tool.

Educate yourself and others about ethical trapping practices. Share your knowledge and experience with other trappers, and encourage them to adopt ethical trapping methods. Support organizations that promote ethical trapping and wildlife conservation.

By embracing ethical trapping practices, you can help to minimize animal suffering, avoid non-target captures, and protect wildlife populations for future generations. Ethical trapping is not only the right thing to do, but it's also essential for maintaining the long-term viability of trapping as a valuable survival skill.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of making snare traps is an invaluable skill for survivalists, outdoorsmen, and anyone interested in traditional trapping methods. By understanding the principles behind snare traps, gathering the right materials, building various types of snares, and practicing ethical trapping techniques, you can significantly increase your chances of success in a wilderness survival scenario. Remember to always prioritize safety, legality, and the humane treatment of animals when setting and checking your traps. With practice and patience, you can become proficient in the ancient art of snare trapping, ensuring your ability to procure food and survive in the wild.