What to do if a non-target animal is caught in a snare?

Handling the Non-Target Animal

When a non-target animal is caught in a snare, it’s essential to handle it carefully to avoid causing further injury or stress. Approach the animal calmly and slowly, speaking softly to reassure it. If the animal is small, such as a rabbit or squirrel, it’s best to carefully release it from the snare while it’s still in the trap. For larger animals, such as deer or coyotes, it may be necessary to carefully remove the snare while the animal is still in place, taking care to avoid sudden movements that could cause the animal to struggle or become more entangled.

Removing the Snare

If the non-target animal is caught in a snare that is still in good condition, it’s often best to leave it in place and remove it later. This minimizes the risk of re-snaring the non-target or other animals. When removing the snare, make sure to carefully release the non-target animal unharmed before removing the snare itself. If the snare is damaged or has been in place for an extended period, it’s best to remove it immediately to prevent further entanglements or injuries.

Best Practices for Future Snaring

To minimize the risk of capturing non-target animals in snares, it’s essential to use the right type of snares for the specific game you’re targeting. For example, smaller snares with a smaller loop diameter are better suited for smaller game like rabbits or squirrels. Larger snares with a larger loop diameter are better suited for larger game like deer or coyotes. Additionally, consider using snares that are specifically designed to allow non-target animals to escape unharmed, such as snares with a “release mechanism” or " escape panel".