Master the Art of Survival: A Comprehensive Guide to Building a Basic Snare Trap

In a survival situation, procuring food becomes paramount. While hunting with modern weapons is an option if available, knowing how to create a basic snare trap provides a crucial advantage. A snare is a simple yet effective trap designed to capture small game animals, offering a sustainable food source when resources are scarce. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of building a reliable snare, covering everything from essential materials to strategic placement.

Understanding the Fundamentals of Snare Traps

Before diving into the construction process, it’s vital to understand the underlying principles of snare traps. A snare essentially consists of a loop of cord or wire that tightens around an animal’s leg or neck when it steps into or passes through it. The trap’s effectiveness relies on several key factors:

• Trigger Mechanism: The trigger mechanism is what releases the snare, tightening the loop around the animal. This can range from a simple prop stick to a more complex figure-four trigger.
• Snare Material: The material used for the snare loop must be strong enough to hold the target animal and durable enough to withstand the elements.
• Camouflage: A well-camouflaged snare is less likely to be detected by wary animals. Blending the snare with its surroundings is crucial.
• Placement: Strategic placement of the snare in areas where animals are likely to travel significantly increases the chances of success.

Essential Materials for a Basic Snare Trap

The materials needed for a basic snare trap are relatively simple and often readily available in a wilderness environment or within a survival kit. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components:

• Snare Wire/Cord: This is the most crucial component. Options include:
  • Brass Wire: Excellent choice due to its strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. 20-22 gauge is suitable for smaller game.
  • Steel Wire: Strong and durable, but can be more challenging to work with. Consider annealing the wire by heating it until red-hot and letting it cool slowly to make it more pliable.
  • Paracord (550 Cord): Can be used in a pinch, but it’s less durable and visible than wire. Remove the inner strands to create a stronger, thinner cord for the noose. Be aware it will degrade faster in wet environments.
  • Natural Fibers: In a true survival situation, you can use natural fibers like plant fibers (e.g., inner bark of trees, nettle fibers), but these are significantly less reliable and require extensive preparation (twisting and braiding for strength).
• Support Sticks: Several small, sturdy sticks are needed to anchor the snare and create the trigger mechanism. Look for straight, dry sticks approximately pencil-thick and 6-12 inches long.
• Anchor Material: A larger, sturdy stick (1-2 inches in diameter and 12-18 inches long) or a small sapling is needed to anchor the snare to the ground.
• Trigger Cordage (Optional but Recommended): A short length of thin, strong cord (e.g., fishing line, dental floss, thin paracord strand) is helpful for creating a more sensitive trigger mechanism.
• Camouflage Material: Leaves, twigs, and other natural materials to conceal the snare and make it less conspicuous.
• Knife or Multi-Tool: Essential for cutting materials, shaping sticks, and preparing the snare.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Building the Simple Snare Trap (Squirrel Noose)

This guide focuses on a common and relatively easy-to-build snare: the simple noose snare, also known as the squirrel noose or running noose snare. It’s effective for catching small game like squirrels, rabbits, and birds. Here’s how to construct it:

Step 1: Preparing the Snare Loop

1. Cut the Snare Material: Cut a length of snare wire or cord approximately 2-3 feet long. The length will depend on the size of the target animal.
2. Form the Noose: Create a loop at one end of the wire or cord. The size of the loop should be appropriate for the target animal (e.g., about 4-6 inches in diameter for a squirrel).
3. Secure the Noose: Pass the free end of the wire/cord through the loop. This creates a running noose that will tighten when pulled. Ensure the noose slides freely and easily. Test it by pulling the free end – the loop should cinch down smoothly. If using paracord, consider melting the cut ends to prevent fraying.

Step 2: Anchoring the Snare

1. Choose an Anchor Point: Select a sturdy anchor point, such as a small tree, a thick bush, or a large rock. If no natural anchor is available, drive a sturdy stick deep into the ground. This stick needs to be driven into the ground at a downward angle to keep the animal from pulling it straight out of the ground.
2. Attach the Snare to the Anchor: Secure the free end of the snare wire/cord to the anchor point. Wrap the wire/cord tightly around the anchor several times and tie it off securely. Ensure the connection is strong enough to withstand the pulling force of a trapped animal. Use a square knot or a similar strong knot to ensure the snare remains attached to the anchor.

Step 3: Setting the Snare

1. Identify a Travel Path: Look for animal trails, runs, or areas where animals are likely to travel. These are often located near food sources, water sources, or along natural barriers like fallen logs or dense vegetation. Look for tracks, droppings, and other signs of animal activity.
2. Position the Noose: Place the noose in the animal’s travel path, ensuring it’s positioned at the appropriate height for the target animal (e.g., a few inches off the ground for squirrels and rabbits). The bottom of the loop should be just above the ground, allowing the animal to step into it.
3. Support the Noose (Optional): Use small twigs or sticks to support the noose in an upright, circular position. This helps maintain the shape of the noose and increases the likelihood of the animal stepping into it. Place these supports so that they do not obstruct the free movement of the snare when it tightens.
4. Camouflage the Snare: Carefully camouflage the snare by covering the wire/cord with leaves, twigs, and other natural materials. The goal is to make the snare as invisible as possible to the animal. Avoid using too much camouflage, as this can impede the snare’s function. The area should appear natural and undisturbed.

Advanced Snare Techniques: The Figure-Four Deadfall Snare

While the simple noose snare is effective, the figure-four deadfall snare provides a more sophisticated trapping mechanism. This type of snare uses a trigger system to release the snare when an animal disturbs it.

Understanding the Figure-Four Trigger

The figure-four trigger consists of three sticks arranged in a specific configuration to create a stable, yet easily triggered, structure. The three sticks are:

• The Vertical Support (Upright): This stick stands upright and supports the horizontal stick (the bait stick).
• The Horizontal Support (Bait Stick): This stick rests on the vertical support and holds the angled stick in place. It is usually baited to attract animals.
• The Angled Support (Trigger Stick): This stick connects the horizontal stick to the snare loop. It’s angled to create tension and stability.

Building the Figure-Four Deadfall Snare

1. Prepare the Trigger Sticks: Carefully carve notches or flat surfaces on the ends of the three sticks to ensure they interlock securely. The notches should be clean and precise for optimal trigger sensitivity.
2. Set up the Figure-Four:
   • Place the vertical support upright in the ground, ensuring it’s stable.
   • Rest the horizontal support on top of the vertical support.
   • Position the angled support so that one end connects to the horizontal support and the other end connects to the snare loop.
   • Adjust the sticks until the figure-four is stable but easily triggered. The slightest disturbance to the horizontal stick should cause the entire structure to collapse.
3. Attach the Snare Loop: Attach one end of the snare wire/cord to the angled support.
4. Position the Snare Loop: Position the snare loop around the area where the animal is expected to trigger the trap. The loop should be placed strategically to capture the animal’s leg or neck.
5. Bait the Trap: Place bait (e.g., nuts, seeds, berries) on or near the horizontal support to attract animals. Choose bait that is known to be appealing to the target species.
6. Camouflage the Trap: Carefully camouflage the entire trap with leaves, twigs, and other natural materials, ensuring the trigger mechanism is not obstructed.

Strategic Snare Placement: Maximizing Your Success Rate

Even the best-constructed snare is useless if placed in the wrong location. Strategic snare placement is crucial for maximizing your success rate. Here are some key considerations:

• Animal Trails and Runs: These are the most obvious and effective locations. Look for well-worn paths through vegetation, along fallen logs, or near water sources.
• Near Food Sources: Animals frequent areas where food is readily available. Place snares near berry bushes, nut trees, or gardens (if available).
• Near Water Sources: Animals need water to survive. Place snares near streams, ponds, or springs.
• Natural Barriers: Animals often follow natural barriers like fallen logs, fences, or dense vegetation. These areas can funnel animals into predictable paths.
• Constrictions: Narrow passages or gaps in fences can be excellent locations for snares. Animals are more likely to pass through these constrictions, increasing the chances of capture.
• Avoid Human Scent: Minimize your scent around the snare. Wear gloves when handling the materials and avoid touching the surrounding vegetation unnecessarily. Consider rubbing the snare with dirt or vegetation to mask any human scent.
• Multiple Snares: Set multiple snares in different locations to increase your overall chances of success.
• Check Regularly: Check your snares regularly, ideally twice a day (morning and evening). This minimizes the suffering of trapped animals and reduces the risk of scavengers stealing your catch.

Safety Precautions and Ethical Considerations

Snare traps can be dangerous to both animals and humans if not handled responsibly. Here are some important safety precautions and ethical considerations:

• Check Local Laws and Regulations: Before setting any snares, familiarize yourself with local trapping laws and regulations. Some areas may prohibit trapping altogether, or require specific permits or licenses.
• Non-Target Animals: Be aware that snares can unintentionally capture non-target animals, including pets or endangered species. Take steps to minimize this risk by carefully selecting snare locations and using appropriate snare sizes. If you catch a non-target animal, release it unharmed if possible.
• Human Safety: Mark your snares clearly to prevent accidental injury to humans. Use brightly colored flagging tape or other visible markers to alert others to the presence of the traps.
• Humane Treatment: If you catch an animal, dispatch it quickly and humanely. Avoid causing unnecessary suffering. Learn proper dispatching techniques for the target species.
• Avoid Snares Near Habitation: Never set snares near homes, campsites, or other areas where people are likely to be present.
• Responsible Use: Trapping should be viewed as a survival tool, not a recreational activity. Use snares responsibly and only when necessary for obtaining food in a survival situation.

Advanced Tips and Tricks for Snare Trapping

• Use Natural Bait: Instead of commercially produced bait, try using natural bait that is readily available in the environment. This will be more appealing to local animals and less likely to attract unwanted attention.
• Scent Control: Animals have a keen sense of smell. Use scent control techniques to minimize your scent around the snare. This can include washing your hands with unscented soap, wearing gloves, and avoiding strong-smelling lotions or perfumes.
• Camouflage Variation: Use a variety of camouflage materials to blend the snare with its surroundings. Don’t just use one type of leaf or twig; mix it up to create a more natural appearance.
• Adjust Snare Size: Adjust the size of the snare loop to match the size of the target animal. A loop that is too large may allow the animal to escape, while a loop that is too small may not be effective.
• Experiment with Trigger Mechanisms: There are many different types of trigger mechanisms that can be used in snare traps. Experiment with different designs to find what works best in your environment.
• Weather Considerations: Weather conditions can affect the effectiveness of snare traps. In wet conditions, snares may become waterlogged and less sensitive. In freezing conditions, snares may freeze solid and become unusable. Adjust your snare design and placement accordingly.
• Track Animal Movement: Spend time observing animal movement patterns in your area. This will help you identify the best locations for setting snares.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Practice building and setting snares in a safe and controlled environment before relying on them in a survival situation. This will help you develop your skills and identify any weaknesses in your design.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Snare Traps

Even with careful planning and execution, it’s easy to make mistakes when building snare traps. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Weak Materials: Using flimsy or unreliable materials will result in a failed trap. Ensure your snare wire/cord is strong enough to hold the target animal.
• Poor Knot Tying: A poorly tied knot can unravel and allow the animal to escape. Use strong, reliable knots like the square knot or the improved clinch knot.
• Inadequate Camouflage: A poorly camouflaged snare is easily detected by animals. Take the time to carefully blend the snare with its surroundings.
• Incorrect Snare Placement: Placing the snare in the wrong location will significantly reduce your chances of success. Choose locations where animals are likely to travel.
• Trigger Mechanism Too Sensitive or Not Sensitive Enough: A trigger mechanism that is too sensitive will be easily set off by wind or other environmental factors, while a trigger mechanism that is not sensitive enough will not be triggered by the target animal. Adjust the trigger mechanism until it is appropriately sensitive.
• Neglecting Maintenance: Snares require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional. Check your snares regularly and repair any damage or wear.
• Ignoring Safety Precautions: Failing to follow safety precautions can result in injury to yourself or others. Always mark your snares clearly and avoid setting them near areas where people are likely to be present.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Snare Trapping

Building and setting snare traps is a valuable survival skill that can provide a sustainable source of food in a wilderness environment. By understanding the fundamentals of snare traps, selecting appropriate materials, practicing construction techniques, and strategically placing your snares, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to prioritize safety, adhere to ethical considerations, and always respect the environment.

This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of snare trapping. Practice these techniques, adapt them to your specific environment, and continue to learn and refine your skills. With dedication and perseverance, you can master the art of snare trapping and become more self-reliant in the face of adversity. Always remember to check local laws and regulations before setting any traps and prioritize humane treatment of animals.