Deep Ct Scans: Unveiling Animal Secrets And Saving Lives

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) in Connecticut regulates hunting and trapping in the state. DEEP approves coyote land trapping courses and requires trappers to carry proof of completion. Leghold traps, in particular, have been a subject of controversy, with some advocating for restrictions on their placement to prevent injuries to children and pets. While DEEP opposes such bills, citing public safety records and the importance of regulated trapping in managing wildlife conflicts, others argue for the restriction or ban of these traps due to their indiscriminate nature and the physical harm they can cause. Organizations like Humane World for Animals and Alley Cat Allies promote smart lending practices and provide resources for trap depots, emphasizing the importance of education, safety, and proper identification of traps as a means to successful returns and responsible trapping.

Leghold traps pose a safety risk to children and pets

Steel leghold traps are a serious safety risk to both children and pets. These traps are designed to capture so-called 'nuisance' animals, but they can easily and frequently harm humans and pets. The trap is shaped like an animal's jaw and is spring-operated. When an animal, child, or pet steps on the trap, the jaws snap shut like a vice, often causing serious damage and pain. The victim usually cannot escape without human help, and even trained animal rescue officials can struggle to remove the trap without causing further injury.

The force of the trap is such that it often results in amputations and even death for the trapped animal. Pets, such as cats, are vulnerable to these traps, as are small children who may unwittingly step on the trap. The animal or person's weight triggers the trap, causing the jaws to snap shut on the leg or another body part. The victim then becomes anchored to the ground by a short chain.

In one case, a stray cat named Wilson from Westport, Massachusetts, was caught in an illegal steel leghold trap. His right paw was snapped shut in the trap, causing him immense pain. Wilson managed to keep his leg, but many other animals are not so lucky and suffer amputations or even death as a result. In another instance, a stray cat named Philbert from Athol had to have his leg amputated due to the severe injuries inflicted by an illegal leghold trap.

The dangers of leghold traps have led to legislative action. In 1996, the ARL (Animal Rescue League) helped pass legislation that made it illegal to use or possess a leghold trap. However, there are now attempts to loosen or eliminate these restrictions. To combat this, Congresswomen Alma S. Adams and Nita M. Lowey introduced the Public Safety and Wildlife Protection Act to eliminate the use of steel-jaw leghold traps and protect people, pets, and wildlife from unnecessary violence and harm.

Coyote trapping on private land

Trap-loan programs are available through organizations like the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon (FCCO) and Operation Catnip. These programs often involve community cats and serve as a pathway to spay and neuter initiatives. Trap loans may also be available from local governments or wildlife agencies, but it is essential to check the specific requirements and regulations for your area.

When participating in a trap-loan program, it is important to follow best practices, such as covering traps once the target animal is caught. Additionally, implementing a clear and organized system for tracking loaned traps can improve the success rate of returns. This can be achieved through methods like barcodes or QR codes attached to each trap, allowing for easy scanning and recording of transactions.

To ensure the safe and responsible use of loaned traps, organizations often require a loan agreement to be signed. This agreement outlines the terms of use, including the purpose of the trap and the borrower's responsibility for any lost, damaged, or stolen equipment. A security deposit, such as a credit card number, may also be required to protect the lending organization's investment. By implementing these measures, organizations can promote the effective and ethical use of traps while minimizing potential risks and losses.

Beavers can be trapped with larger openings

While Connecticut's regulations prohibit openings greater than 6.5", Conibears and similar smooth wire traps with an opening of up to 10" may be set for beavers in waters frequented by them. The 330 bodygrip trap is the most common beaver trap, but other sizes can be used. For instance, the 280 bodygrip trap has an 8"x8" opening and can catch beavers, especially in areas with small runs and trails. The 220 bodygrip trap, with its 7"x7" jaw spread, is less commonly used for beaver trapping. On the other hand, the Minnesota Brand MB 1216, with its 12"x16" dimensions, is designed for larger spaces. The RBG Big Bear trap, with a 10"x22" opening, is another option that works similarly to the TS-85, a coil spring foothold trap with an 8.5" jaw spread.

The Duke 850 is a newer beaver trap with a closed-jaw model designed for beavers. It features heavy-duty components and the Paws-I-Trip pan system. The Kendall Obermeir No-BS traps are also worth considering for their rugged design and unique features. When setting traps, it's important to consider the habitat and behaviour of beavers. They share spaces with otters, so precautions must be taken to avoid trapping the wrong animal. Adjusting the trigger on bodygrip traps can help ensure otters pass through safely.

Beavers create mud mounds near the water's edge, marked with their scent glands. Trappers can recreate these mounds and use lures or bait to attract beavers. Foothold traps can be placed in shallow water near the bank, with rocks wired to the chain to ensure the trapped beaver is quickly pulled underwater and drowns. This method can also be adapted for use under ice, but it requires careful execution and should not be attempted by beginners. Bodygrip traps can be used in open water by placing a small log or limb over the trap, forcing the beaver to dive into it. Cable devices and cage traps can also be used but may require more setup and maintenance.

Dam break sets are very effective, but local regulations regarding tampering with beaver dams should be considered. If permitted, a small opening can be created in the dam to allow water to trickle through, enticing beavers to repair the damage and potentially getting caught in the process. However, other beavers may repair the dam over the trapped beaver, making retrieval challenging. Overall, beaver trapping requires a good understanding of the animal's behaviour, habitat, and local regulations to be successful and responsible.

Humane societies loan out traps

Humane societies do loan out traps, but they are typically for trapping cats and are loaned out as part of a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program. These programs are often run by nonprofit organizations, spay/neuter clinics, or individual trappers. They allow trappers to trap and neuter cats without having to invest in traps of their own.

Trap depots, such as the one run by the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, lend out traps to help manage community cat populations. They recommend buying 10 traps for every 200 community cats expected to be trapped in a year. They also suggest clearly numbering each trap to make them easier to track.

Another organization that loans out traps is Operation Catnip of Gainesville, Florida. They coordinate monthly high-volume spay/neuter clinics for community cats and often have as many as 400 traps, worth about $30,000, on loan to the public. They have streamlined their trap-loan process by placing QR codes on all their traps.

The Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon (FCCO) is another organization with a trap-loan program. They have implemented a system where each of their 300 traps has a unique bar code that is scanned whenever the trap is loaned out or returned. This helps to keep track of their equipment and ensure successful returns.

FixNation also has a Trap-Neuter-Return program where they loan out Tomahawk traps for free to those using their spay/neuter services. They require a deposit and an ID/driver's license to check out equipment, and the traps must be returned cleaned and within 35 days.

Hunting and trapping licenses are required in Connecticut

There are several types of hunting and trapping licenses available in Connecticut, depending on the type of activity you wish to pursue. For example, a Firearms Hunting License is required for those who wish to use firearms for hunting, while a Trapping License is necessary if you plan to trap animals. Bowhunters must also show proof of completion of a specific bowhunting course or its equivalent before purchasing the relevant permit.

The cost of licenses varies depending on the type and your status as a resident or non-resident. For example, Connecticut residents can obtain a Revolver Deer Endorsement for $5, which allows them to use a revolver instead of a rifle or shotgun for deer hunting on private lands. On the other hand, persons under 16 years of age must purchase a Junior Trapping License, and those with a certified disability may be eligible for a free license.

Hunting and trapping licenses can be purchased through the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's (DEEP) Online Outdoor Licensing System. This system allows for electronic signatures, so you can keep a digitally signed copy of your license on your smartphone. Alternatively, you can purchase licenses at outdoor equipment retailers, select DEEP offices, and some town halls.

It is important to note that hunting and trapping are highly regulated activities in Connecticut, with specific season dates, regulations, and notices that must be adhered to. Hunters and trappers are responsible for familiarizing themselves with these rules and obtaining the necessary permits and stamps in addition to their licenses.

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