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The Modern Apprentice

 

 

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Trapping List
If all goes well you will have no need for much of what is on this list, however there is nothing like being in a situation and wishing you had brought that one extra item...
  • Permit - it doesn't hurt to carry a copy of the regulations as well as a 3-186
  • Trap
  • Trap supplies - if using a Dho-Gazza, extra paper clips and tabs are useful as is extra string; if you are trapping with any noose system, bring extra nooses.
  • Nail clippers - if you are using a noosed trap, nail clippers are a safe way to clip the nooses without posing danger to the bird or yourself.
  • Hood - preferably several in different sizes
  • Masking tape - taping the raptor's feet after trapping prevents them from harming themselves or others
  • Duct tape - always useful
  • Blanket and beach towels - to approach the raptor on the trap without being seen and to carefully hold the raptor to remove it from the trap
  • Bait - this could be mice or sparrows. Dark mice work better than lighter mice, and two work better than one. Some have even used toy pigeons and had success.
  • Safe container for the bait - both for transporting and for the trap. If using mice, make sure they have plenty of paper to nest in, apples, and lettuce.
  • Paper towels
  • Twist ties
  • Rubber bands - for protecting the tail
  • Wire cutters
  • Needle nose pliers
  • Hammer - for setting the side poles of the Dho-gazza, but it's generally helpful
  • Dental floss - handy to fix Dho-gazza problems
  • Panty hose - white or a color that contrasts with the bird will make this easier
  • Scissors or knife - very handy, and to cut the toe from the pantyhose
  • Gloves - specific falconry gloves aren't necessary here, but lined welding gloves are very useful
  • Binoculars - for spotting the birds
  • Camera
  • First aid kit - both for humans and birds
  • Hand soap and sanitizer - if you end up trapping an obviously sick bird you will want a way to prevent transmitting diseases
  • Thermos of coffee
Some notes: Just because you trap a hawk doesn't mean you want it.
  • No off colored feet, off colored cere, nares, skin, or extensive parasitic infestation
  • Look at the beak and feather condition
  • Look at the foot size
  • Consider what you are hunting. If you want to take squirrels, a larger female Red-Tail may be better suited. If you trap and release a sick bird, clean your hands thoroughly before trapping a new bird. Carry some hand sanitizer such as Purell with you when you trap to avoid transmitting diseases.


All images and text Copyright © 2004 - 2020 - Lydia Ash