These predator traps are being used to give New Zealand’s native wildlife a chance at survival. Here are 4 of the main traps used to catch rats, stoats, weasels, ferrets, and hedgehogs.
New Zealand is unfortunately overrun by introduced predators (rats, stoats, and possums to name a few) that decimate our native plants and wildlife. Ever since the arrival of the first waka around 750 years ago introduced species have been hurting native species. At least 75 native species have gone extinct since people arrived in New Zealand and nearly 4,000 more species are now at risk or threatened! One of the main tools used to eliminate predators are traps. Here are four of the main traps used in New Zealand targeting these species – rat tunnel trap, DOC 200, DOC 250, and the A24.
Predator Traps – One of The Tools To Eliminate Predators
Since people arrived in New Zealand nearly 75 species have gone extinct and another 4,000 are threatened. There are three main causes threatening New Zealand’s native species – habitat change, hunting (by introduced species), and being outcompeted.
Clearly, without people stepping in to help our threatened species, they stand little chance against this army of invaders. Thus, the government has made the ambitious goal to make New Zealand predator free by the year 2050. Achieving that seemingly outrageous goal will take huge effort by everyone, improved technologies, passionate individuals, and resources.
Predator traps are one of the many tools being used to help meet that goal.
4 Predator Traps To Catch Rats, Mustelids (Weasels, Stoats, and Ferrets), and Hedgehogs
Rat Tunnel
This is a basic trap that is used to catch only rats (or possibly mice). A wooden tunnel encloses a simple trap, either a Victor or T-Rex. The wooden box (a tunnel) is designed to prevent non-target species from being caught.
DOC 200
This is a beefier, stronger, more powerful version of the old rat trap. It’s designed to catch stoats, but will also catch rats, weasels, and hedgehogs.
DOC 250
This is the same as the DOC 200, but it’s bigger and more powerful. Thus, it’s designed to catch a bigger animal, namely a ferret, but will also catch all the same species as the DOC 200.
A 24
This is a advancement in technology that is a resetting trap. It can kill a predator and then reset itself. Thus, it works well in remote areas that are not easily reached by staff to clear and reset a trap. This trap will catch rats, stoats, weasels, hedgehogs, and possums.
Which Trap Is Right For You?
That is a good question. Ultimately it depends on what predators you are trying to catch and how much money or time you are willing to spend on trapping. The A24 costs a bit more, both upfront and to buy replacement gas and lure, but it will greatly reduce the amount of time needed to reset the trap after a catch and will stay set longer.
Where Can You Buy These 4 Predator Traps?
These traps are available in many different locations, both brick and mortar stores and online. Some of the brick and mortar stores include Mitre 10 and Hunting and Fishing. They range in cost from $10 to $200, so for many people cost is an important factor in determining the best trap for you.
Interesting article. Never knew that ferrets and stoats would be categorized as New Zealand’s biggest pests. Good to know different trapping methods.
Unfortunately, New Zealand has a long list of big pests. The three biggest ones that threaten the native flora and fauna are possums, stoats, and rats. Ferrets (another type of mustelid in the same family as stoats and weasels) are another serious pest and threat.