Table of Contents
Before Going to the Field
- Check that all permits are valid and all training is completed
- Check equipment
- Contact field site to ensure that the site is accessible and facilities are unlocked
- Check weather before leaving each day
Equipment Check
Before a trapping session check equipment.
- One to two weeks before each trapping session check all traps for proper functionality. Sometimes just setting and triggering a few times can loosen a stuck trap, and making sure none of the parts are stuck in the sides of the trap. If not, apply a small amount of WD-40 to loosen. A guide on adjusting the traps can be found here and a video here.
- Sign out the truck, 40100 (bigger backdeat)
- Test GPS collars as soon as they arrive, and again before putting them on raccoons.
- Test anything that uses batteries - digital scales, thermometers, headlamps, PIT reader, timers, GPS unit, radios.
- Check levels of all other supplies at least a month in advance, check again the week before trapping
- Charge batteries and radios each night