Corral Style Trapping
Corral Trapping and whole-sounder removal is the most effective method of reducing feral swine populations because multiple feral swine can be removed at one time. this population reduction decreases feral swine damage. It is essential to follow the right steps when employing trapping.
1: Trap Site Prep
Scout areas for feral swine activity, and identify a trap site with some cover near impacted areas. The site should be pre-baited, and once there is constant activity trap construction over time can begin. Once the feral swine have started using the bait, begin by placing the trap door on the site. During prebaiting, keep the trap door tied open so that feral swine can go in and out of the trap freely. Some camouflage on the door – pine branches work well – increase the comfort level of the swine. A game camera can also be used and checked daily to determine how many feral swine are coming to the trap site, allowing you to determine the sounder size. Build the trap slowly by introducing additional panels but not so quickly as to scare away the sounder.
The recommended trap is a large corral trap. This trap is circular to avoid any corners where feral swine will bunch up, climb on each other, and escape from the top. Keeping the top open minimizes non-target capture. Animals like deer, turkey and bears can easily escape. One-time drop doors are recommended. If you introduce trap panels and the sounder stops visiting the bait site, do not add any additional panels until the sounder returns and begins to comfortably feed again. Then resume trap construction. Camouflage the door and panels with cut branches if necessary but keep the area as natural as possible – don’t risk scaring the sounder with any elaborate construction to hide a trap.
3: Successful Capture
2: Selecting and Setting up a Trap
Trapping is a process and not a singular event. Successful trapping requires patience and skill. Pre-baiting and contracting the trap over time will increase the likelihood of success. Deploy the trap when the entire sounder is inside and dispose of feral swine following state regulations. You may choose to bait the trap again, or relocate the trap site to another area on the property. While eradication is not feasible, whole sounder removal through corral style trapping offers a tool for reducing feral swine populations.
