Setting a trap doesn't make you a "trapper"

NWCOs and fur trappers use some of the same equipment but there are important distinctions between these groups. Both are forms of regulated trapping but different laws apply. NWCO work isn't restricted by trapping seasons. However, NWCOs can't use or sell the fur of the nuisance animals they've trapped—unless that species is in season and the NWCO also has a trapping license.

Trapping is a tool for NWCOs, not "the" tool. Just look in the truck! Sure, there are traps, but you could also find catchpoles, hardware cloth, checkvalves, expanding foam sealant, and chimney caps. That's because NWCOs are there to fix a problem. To do this, they'll probably trap animals, but not always; they might repel or exclude the animals.

NWCOs use cage traps much of the time, while fur trappers most often use foothold or body-gripping traps. What they hope to capture differs, too. They usually target different species and fur trappers don’t deal with birds or snakes at all. There are only a few species that both groups might handle, such as raccoons, skunks, beaver, and muskrat.

One of the easiest differences to spot is location. Most NWCOs work in urban or suburban areas and often set traps inside a building or on the roof. Fur trappers usually trap in rural areas and more natural habitats.

Resources :

1. New York State Trappers' Association
2. New York State Wildlife Management Association

Handbook Contents

Introduction

• Understanding Nuisance Wildlife
• The Business Side

Needs of People and wildlife

• Six Questions NWCOs must ask

Federal Laws and Regulations

• New York State Wildlife Control Laws
• Local Regulations for Wildlife Control

Safety Risks for Customers

• Job Risks
• Safety Gear
• Carcass Disposal
• Wildlife Diseases

Best Practices for Wildlife Control

• Assess the Situation
• Choose Management Options
• Tools and Techniques
• Preventing Problems
• Evaluating Success

Professionalism Resources for NWCOs

Disclaimer

This manual was written as a guide to train nuisance wildlife control operators in New York State. Laws and regulations may differ in your state. Always consult local and state laws before implementing wildlife damage management activities.

Contact Information

Contact your local Extension Office

Resources

Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management
National Wildlife Control Operator's Association
Wildlife Control

Acknowledgments

We thank the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for contributing this information.

Produced by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and the NYS Integrated Pest Management Program.