How to make a ladder trap
A strategically set ladder trap will catch birds when other methods of control either won’t work or are impractical.
Fox control
Foxes can be prolific predators of gamebirds, ground-nesting birds, small mammals and young livestock. but can be controlled in several different ways.Â
No one option is suitable for all circumstances and so checking the relevant legislation for your country and assessment of your own individual situation is essential to ensure you use the most effective and appropriate method(s) of controlling foxes.Â
Humane cable restraints
Humane cable restraints (HCRs) are designed to only catch and hold. They have been used to safely catch and release foxes as part of scientific research.Â
Modern HCRs are significantly different to older design snares and include specific features such as stops, swivels, and free running a ‘eye’ and ‘breakaway’ links to enable a HCR to safely restrain a fox, while reducing the likelihood of non-target captures.
When used correctly, HCRs exceed internationally recognised standards for restraining traps.
It has been illegal for more than 40 years to use any snare which is self-locking. i.e. those designed to kill.
A strategically set HCR will catch foxes at times and in locations when other methods of control either won’t work or are impractical. This may include where the cover is too high to be able to see or shoot a fox, or the presence of livestock which makes the use of a firearm inappropriate.
Anyone considering the use of HCRs must comply with all relevant legislation and follow any applicable code of practice.
Important changes to legislation in Wales and Scotland
In Wales (from 17 October 2023) and Scotland (from 25 November 2024), the use of all types of snares, including humane cable restraints (HCRs), is illegal. As a result, these devices cannot be used in either country.
Manufacturers/stockists
At present, we are advised the following company supplies HCRs:
Perdix Wildlife Supplies Avenue R, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2LG
Telephone: 02476 692 257
Website:www.perdixwildlifesupplies.com
For more advice, contact BASC’s game and wildlife management team on Tel: 01244 573019 or email us here.
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The shooting of foxes, ground game, pest birds and rats is necessary to ensure that damage to game, wildlife, livestock, and growing crops is kept at sustainable levels.
Grey squirrel control with live capture traps
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