How to Trap Animals for Survival

In a survival situation there are many skills which may be called upon in order to stay alive for an extended period. Trapping animals for food is a skill that anyone venturing into a wilderness area should know. With some basic knowledge and materials it is possible to successfully trap small animals.

Things You'll Need

  • String, fishing line or small diameter rope
  • Knife
  • 5- to 10-pound rocks
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Instructions

  1. How to Trap Animals for Survival

    • 1

      Determine where traps should be placed by locating game trails and fresh animal tracks. Game trails are paths used regularly by animals typically going back and forth from food, water or shelter. Fresh game tracks are another indication of animals in an area that may be good for setting a trap.

    • 2

      Make a dead fall trap by balancing a 5 to 10-pound rock on a stick. Place bait such as jerky, candy or cheese underneath the rock so that an animal will bump against the stick causing the rock to fall and pin the animal.

    • 3

      Set a snare trap by forming a loose loop with fishing line, a shoestring, small- diameter rope or other available material. Hang the loop so that it rests at the height of the head of the animal that is being trapped.

    • 4

      Dig a hole and cover it with thin branches and leaves. This will camouflage the hole so the the animal will not see it. Place the bait on top of the leaves to encourage the animal onto the trap. Make sure the hole is deep enough so that the animal cannot climb out.