Missouri Department of Conservation

Trapping

Benefits of Trapping

Animals are trapped for a number of reasons. Wild animals may be trapped to protect people's property or to control unwanted damage. Wildlife biologists use foot-hold traps to catch many kinds of animals so they can be studied. Traps are sometimes used to catch animals for re-establishment in other states. Trapping is also a way to capture sick animals quickly before they can spread disease to other wild and domestic animals or people. In addition, trapping provides a renewable resource for clothing and fashion.

Regulations and Seasons

Trapping in Missouri is carefully regulated by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Wildlife laws only allow people to trap mammals that are common or abundant. These laws make sure that even though some animals may be trapped every year, their populations will remain healthy.

Careful regulation of trapping and the use of trapping as a tool for research and management enables the Missouri Department of Conservation to successfully manage Missouri's wildlife in a manner that is safe, wise and humane.

Permits

Trappers can choose from a variety of permits and pick the ones that best fit their needs.

To take, possess and transport wildlife and to sell furbearers taken by hunting or trapping you will need, unless otherwise exempted, one or more of the following:

• Resident Trapping Permit
• Resident Fur Handlers Permit
• Nonresident Furbearer Hunting & Trapping Permit

Fur Auction Results

Find the number of pelts and prices paid at the February 12, 2011 fur auction in Columbia, MO.

Furbearer Program Annual Report 2010

This annually updated report includes the status of Missouri furbearers (based on fur harvest comparisons, etc.), research projects and other issues.

Furbearer Records

View record-weight furbearers, and let us know if you think you've trapped a record-breaking furbearer.

Making Trapping Lures

There is something very rewarding about formulating a lure for a species of animal and finding that it works. It is something similar to a trout fisherman tying his own flies and catching trout on them.

The History of Trapping in Missouri

The fur industry in North America has been a major factor in the exploration and settling of our country. When the first settlers arrive on the eastern coast of the United States in the early 1600s, they trapped for food, clothing, and to protect their crops and livestock.

Trapping Coyotes

A key to successful trapping is to use the correct trap for the job. A trap should be large, powerful and fast enough to catch the coyote that activates it.

Use of Cable Restraints in Missouri

Unlike snares on land, cable restraints capture and hold animals alive and without significant injuries, and can be used safely in areas where other traps may pose problems for pets and other animals.