rapping 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...
- License - it doesn't hurt to carry a copy of the regulations as well as a 3-186
- Trap - be sure the trap you are using is legal for the state in which you are trapping (For example, in Washington state any leg hold device is not legal. This most likely rules out a Bal-Chatri, noose carpet, pigeon harness, and more.)
- 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