Using Snares to Hunt Game: A Comprehensive Guide

In a survival situation, securing food is crucial, and knowing how to use snares can be a vital skill. Snares are simple yet effective traps that have been used for centuries to catch small to medium-sized game. They are cost-effective, require minimal materials, and can be set up relatively quickly. This guide will walk you through the basics of using snares to hunt game, including selecting materials, setting up snares, and important considerations for ethical and legal trapping.

Understanding Snares

A snare is a type of trap that uses a noose to catch an animal by the neck or body. When the animal passes through the noose, it tightens, restraining the animal until you can check the trap. Snares can be made from various materials, but wire is commonly used due to its strength and flexibility.

Choosing the Right Materials

1. Wire: The best material for making snares is a strong, flexible wire. Stainless steel or brass wire in gauges ranging from 20 to 24 is typically ideal. For larger game, use thicker wire.
2. Cordage: In some cases, strong natural cordage can be used, but it is generally less effective than wire.
3. Supports and Anchors: Use sticks or stakes to support and anchor the snare. These can be found in the environment around you.

Types of Snares

1. Simple Loop Snare: The basic snare involves creating a loop that tightens as the animal moves through it.
2. Spring Snare: Uses a bent sapling or branch as a spring to pull the snare tight more quickly when triggered.
3. Hanging Snare: Suspended above the ground, often used for small animals like rabbits or birds.

Setting Up a Snare

1. Identify Game Trails: Look for signs of animal activity, such as tracks, droppings, and worn paths. Animals are creatures of habit and often use the same trails regularly.
2. Placement: Position the snare on a well-used animal trail. For ground-based animals, place the snare at head height for the intended game. For example, set a rabbit snare about 4-6 inches off the ground.
3. Creating the Noose:
   • Simple Loop Snare: Create a small loop at one end of the wire (around 1-2 inches in diameter) by twisting the wire back on itself. Thread the other end of the wire through this loop to create a larger, adjustable noose.
   • Spring Snare: Attach the noose to a bent sapling or branch that is anchored in a bent position. Use a trigger mechanism (such as a figure-4 trigger) to release the tension and spring the sapling upright when the animal passes through the snare.
4. Anchoring: Secure the end of the wire opposite the noose to a solid anchor point, such as a tree or stake driven into the ground. Ensure the anchor is strong enough to hold the weight and force of the captured animal.
5. Camouflage: Conceal the snare with natural materials like leaves and grass to make it less noticeable to the animal. Be careful not to overdo it; the snare must still function correctly.

Checking and Maintaining Snares

1. Regular Checks: Check your snares at least twice a day to ensure any captured animals do not suffer unnecessarily and to reset or repair any triggered snares.
2. Legal and Ethical Considerations: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding trapping. Always strive for humane trapping practices to minimize the suffering of the animal.

Tips for Effective Snaring

1. Multiple Snares: Set multiple snares to increase your chances of capturing game. This is especially important in survival situations where securing food is critical.
2. Trail Narrowing: Narrow down the animal’s path using sticks and branches, funneling them toward the snare. This increases the likelihood of the animal passing through the noose.
3. Patience and Persistence: Snares do not guarantee immediate results. Be patient and persistent, regularly checking and adjusting your snares as needed.

Common Targets for Snares

1. Rabbits and Hares: These are common targets for snares due to their abundance and predictable trails.
2. Squirrels: Often caught using hanging snares on trees or branches.
3. Foxes and Coyotes: Larger, stronger snares can be used to target these animals. Ensure your snare is robust enough to handle their strength.
4. Birds: Ground-feeding birds can be snared using small loop snares placed at head height on trails leading to feeding areas.

Safety and Precautions

1. Personal Safety: Be cautious when setting snares, especially spring snares, to avoid injury.
2. Non-Target Animals: Check local wildlife regulations to ensure you are not trapping protected species. Be prepared to release any non-target animals.
3. Environment: Avoid setting snares in areas where pets or livestock might get caught. Mark your snares with discreet indicators to remind yourself and others of their locations.

Conclusion

Using snares to hunt game is a valuable skill for preppers, providing a means to secure food in a survival situation. With the right materials, techniques, and knowledge, you can effectively use snares to catch various small to medium-sized game. Remember to follow legal and ethical guidelines, ensure the humane treatment of captured animals, and regularly maintain and check your snares. By mastering the art of snaring, you enhance your self-reliance and preparedness for any survival scenario.