When rabbits become a nuisance, live trapping provides a method for humane removal and relocation. This approach requires careful planning and execution to minimize stress on the animal and ensure effectiveness. Live trapping should generally be considered a method of last resort for nuisance wildlife control. Successfully trapping a rabbit involves selecting the correct equipment, utilizing proper bait, and adhering to responsible handling procedures.
Choosing the Right Trap and Location
The physical dimensions of the trap influence trapping success and the well-being of the captured rabbit. A trap 24 to 32 inches long and 8 to 10 inches wide is appropriately sized for an adult rabbit, preventing injury while allowing movement. Look for traps constructed from heavy-duty, galvanized wire mesh, which resists rust and provides durability. The best design features a single entrance and a responsive, spring-loaded door mechanism.
Proper placement increases the likelihood of a quick capture. Place the trap directly along active rabbit runways, often visible as narrow paths through grass or snow, or near areas exhibiting fresh feeding damage. Rabbits utilize natural cover for safety, so setting the trap near brush piles, dense shrubbery, or under low decks is highly effective.
Before setting the trigger, ensure the trap is level and stable to prevent premature tripping or wariness. Conceal the trap by placing a thin layer of natural materials like grass, leaves, or light brush over and around the cage. This camouflage helps the trap blend into the environment, making the enclosure appear less threatening.
Setting the Trap and Using Effective Bait
Rabbits are herbivores, and selecting the right bait is paramount for success. Highly effective baits include:
- Fresh clover
- Carrot slices
- Pieces of apple
- Small sections of corn on the cob
Commercially available rabbit attractants, often formulated with strong anise or sweet herb scents, can also increase interest.
The placement of the bait should create an irresistible trail leading the rabbit fully past the trigger plate. Place a small amount of bait just outside the entrance to pique curiosity and encourage initial investigation. A more generous trail of food should then lead from the entrance toward the center of the trap.
The main lure must be positioned directly past the trigger plate. This placement ensures the rabbit is completely inside the cage and steps on the pressure-sensitive mechanism while trying to reach the food. Securing the bait with a twist-tie or string prevents the rabbit from nudging it off the plate without activating the trap.
Proper function requires the trigger mechanism to be set with high sensitivity, requiring minimal pressure to activate the door. Before setting the trap, cover the wire floor with a layer of natural material, such as dirt, sod, or leaf litter, to mimic the ground surface. This camouflage reduces the rabbit’s hesitation about stepping onto the unfamiliar wire mesh.
The trap must be monitored frequently to prevent distress, injury, or exposure for the captured animal. Checking the trap at least every few hours throughout the day is necessary; a live trap should never be left unattended overnight. Prompt removal prevents the risk of overheating in sunlight or exposure to predators.
Safe Handling and Relocation Procedures
Upon capture, immediately approach the trap slowly and cover the entire cage with a blanket, towel, or tarp. Covering the enclosure creates a dark, calming environment that reduces the rabbit’s panic and stress during transport. Always wear thick gloves when handling the trap and keep fingers away from the wire mesh, as the animal may attempt to bite or scratch.
Before relocation, verify local and state wildlife regulations regarding the transport and release of live animals. Many jurisdictions prohibit the movement of wildlife, including rabbits, or require specific permits to prevent the spread of disease or disruption of ecosystems. If relocation is permitted, the release site should be a suitable habitat, such as a wooded area or large open space, located three to five miles from the capture site.
The chosen location must provide ample natural cover, access to fresh water, and a reliable food source to maximize the rabbit’s chances of survival. Open the trap door and stand back to allow the animal to exit the cage on its own terms.