Trap-line Activity

With the low price of fur we've kept our trap-line very small.  Basically, just a couple of dog-proof traps in the back woods to thin out the big raccoons.  This area of the PNW has a higher-than-average rate of Rabies, so fewer critters helps keep the dog safe.  Plus, it is fun getting the bigger raccoons, and it keeps them off our back porch and out of the chicken coop.

Even more fun is the trail camera, posted at one of the trap sites.  One night, a big critter came and got caught, and the camera captured more than 10 hours (and 1000 pictures) of that coon - up the tree, down the tree, and every which way in between.  The last 4 pictures in the sequence shows it twisting on the trap, and then walking away free.  Less than an hour before my trap check.

Next night, he was back (or at least his twin) and hand caught again!  I think I've hit on a super bait recipe ;-)

Check out all these pictures - most of them over just a couple nights of the trail.  Lots of activity.

Coyote encounter!  Even with one paw tied behind its back, the raccoon must have been too intimidating for a hungry 'yote to tangle with.  Funny thing is, 3 days before this we had trapped a opposum (i think) in that same trap, but lost it to a coyote before the early AM trap check.

Maybe he is thinking of jumping...

Lots of fun (and impressive) acrobatics...

The local herd was curious...

This is why dog-proof is the only way to go in the neighborhood...

A not-so-rare Puma domestica siting.  Again, proof of the value of a dog-proof strategy.

I think the trail cameras are MORE fun than the steel traps.  Certainly less work, more drama, excitement, and MUCH less frustration when the steel is empty!

With all the snow lately, the tracks are fun to read and see - but nothing as great as date, time, and picture!