What are some coyote trapping tips?

Cage traps, paw traps and snares can all trap coyotes; however, coyotes are often naturally wary of metal cages. A paw trap is the most common way of catching a coyote, but state regulations vary on what the trapper must do once the coyote is caught.

Setting traps along the coyote's natural path, especially in places where it crawls under fences, is recommended. Meat is a good bait, as the coyote can smell it from a long way away; however, it is important to keep domestic dogs away from the area.

Camouflage the trap by setting it in a shallow hole and packing dirt around it. The aim is to create a sturdy base for the trap while making the hole look as natural as possible.

A lethal trap, such as a snare, kills the coyote by choking it, but when using a non-lethal trap, seek professional help before removing the coyote, as it may carry rabies or other parasites. If regulations require the coyote to be euthanized, a head shot or chest shot is the quickest way of doing so.

Clean the trap with a high-pressure hose before using it again. If the trap gets salt on it during winter, dyeing and waxing may be necessary.