How to Trap a Puma

The puma, also known as a cougar or panther, is a large cat found in many areas around the world, including the United States, Canada and South America. It is a predatory, "stalk and ambush" animal, feeding on cattle, horses, sheep, chickens and even rodents. Because of its tendency to hunt and kill livestock, ranchers and farmers often find the puma to be a real threat. There are several ways of trapping a puma. This is just one method.

Things You'll Need

  • Spring trap (with padded jaws)
  • Industrial-strength wire
  • Bait (lamb, pig or chicken)
  • Camouflage (leaves, branches)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a path that the puma is likely to use. This path is usually in the area that the puma travels while stalking prey.

    • 2

      Dig a hole in the ground on the path. Set the spring trap into the hole. The "trigger plate" should rest at ground level.

    • 3

      Anchor the trap using the wire. This wire must be strong enough to withstand the pull of a strong animal. Tie this wire to a nearby tree or other secure structure.

    • 4

      Camouflage the trap by covering it with leaves, branches and dirt. This should hide the trap from the puma's view.

    • 5

      Place the bait (a lamb, young pig or chicken) just beyond the trap. When the puma attempts to take the bait, it will likely step on the trigger plate, setting off the padded jaws of the trap. The puma should be trapped but not injured.