What are colony traps?
A colony trap is an enclosure type devise that allows for the capture of one or more muskrats in a single set. The trap design functions with one or more one-way entrances that allow muskrats to push through and enter, but prevents exiting by the mechanics and/or design of the door or opening.
How do I get a muskrat out of my house?
The most effective way to get rid of muskrats is through an integrated approach, which incorporates multiple solutions. The best way to get rid of muskrats that are currently living in your waterway is to use a live trap to remove them. The most important factor when trapping is location.
What is the best way to trap muskrats?
The most efficient traps used to catch muskrats are the #1 or 1 1/2 steel leg-hold or the size 110 Conibear trap. Conibear traps are recommended because they kill the animal almost instantly. The “quick kill” action of the Conibear trap allows it to be set in shallow or deep water runways.
What’s the best way to get rid of muskrats?
Will muskrats eat baby ducks?
A long-time friend of mine believes that a muskrat would eat baby ducklings. No, I have never witnessed such aggressive behavior on the part of a muskrat. We have frequently seen them swimming in the Ashuelot River carrying great mouthfuls of long grass in their mouths.
Where is the best place to build a colony trap?
Small creeks or steams are also a great spot to use a colony trap, especially where the stream narrows and the muskrats are forced to go through the trap. A colony trap is basically a rectangular box made from steel mesh with one way doors on each end.
Why do you need a colony trap for muskrats?
Colony traps work great for trapping muskrats because you can catch multiple muskrats in a single day, something that’s not possible if you’re using just a conibear trap or footholds.
How big should a door be for a colony trap?
Secure 1 piece of 5″ x 8″ wire to each side of the box as shown to create one way doors on each end. Since the trap is 6″ wide and the doors are only 5″ wide, allow about a 1/2″ gap on each side to center the door. Use 3 equally spaced J clips for each door to secure it to the trap.
How long does it take to make a muskrat trap?
These colony trap plans allow you to create a solid muskrat trap that works great for trapping multiple muskrats at one time. The trap should take about 30 minutes to 1 hour to make and will last for many years.