Chapter 1: Trap Shy vs. Trap Wise Animals When it comes to wildlife control, understanding your adversary is paramount. In this first chapter, we'll delve deeper into the intriguing distinction between trap-shy and trap-wise animals. Trap-Shy Animals: Trap-shy animals are characterized by their initial fear or wariness of traps. This wariness often stems from their lack of prior exposure to these contraptions. They're cautious creatures who may have stumbled upon a trap and realized that it's something to be avoided. Think of it as the natural suspicion that many animals have towards novel objects in their environment. They're not necessarily outsmarting us; they're simply acting on their instincts for self-preservation. Trap-Wise Animals: On the other hand, trap-wise animals are the true challenge for wildlife control professionals. These critters have not only encountered traps before, but they've also learned to outsmart them. They've developed the ability to recognize a trap's danger and actively avoid it. Some of them even go to the extent of testing traps, poking at them, and figuring out how to get to the bait without triggering the mechanism. To handle these crafty creatures effectively, it's essential to distinguish between trap-shy and trap-wise behaviors in the field. The former may simply require time and patience, while the latter demands a more strategic approach. By understanding these nuances, you're better equipped to tackle the issue of trap-wise animals head-on. Chapter 2: Change the Trap Now that we've established the difference between trap-shy and trap-wise animals, let's move on to the first strategy for dealing with trap-wise critters: changing the type of trap you're using. Adaptability is Key: The beauty of wildlife control lies in its dynamic nature. What works for one situation might not be suitable for another. Trap-wise animals are intelligent and observant, so adapting to their behavior is crucial. Switching Trap Types: Consider the scenario of a stubborn gray squirrel. Gray squirrels are generally easier to trap, but what if one particular individual refuses to cooperate? This is where adaptability comes into play. In this case, switching from a standard squirrel-sized trap to a larger raccoon-sized trap was the game-changer. The squirrel, so used to evading traditional traps, fell for the unexpected, ultimately leading to a successful capture. Size Matters: Size is one variable to play with when changing traps. Depending on the target species and the specific animal's behavior, a larger or smaller trap may be the key to success. Think of it as offering a new challenge to these intelligent creatures, one that they can't resist. By varying your trapping tools, you're keeping trap-wise animals on their toes, making it more likely that they'll take the bait – both literally and figuratively. Chapter 3: Vary the Bait and Baiting Technique In the world of wildlife control, adaptability isn't limited to trap types. It extends to bait and baiting techniques, as well. Deploying Multiple Traps: An essential strategy in wildlife control is to deploy multiple traps at a single site. This not only increases your chances of capturing the target animal but also allows room for experimentation. You can afford to diversify your baiting techniques when you have several traps in play. Experimenting with Bait: Different animals are attracted to different types of bait. While one animal might be lured by a protein-based bait, another could be enticed by something sweet. Glandular lures can also work wonders in some situations. The key here is to know your local wildlife, their preferences, and their tendencies. Record and Adapt: Keeping detailed records of which baits work best at each site is essential. Over time, you'll develop a repository of knowledge that helps you choose the right bait for the right situation.