Efficacy of three types of live traps for capturing weasels, Mustela spp.

Abstract

The efficacy of double-door Havahart, single-door National, and single-door wooden live traps for capturing Long-tailed Weasels (Mustela frenata) and Short-tailed Weasels (M. erminea) was studied in northern New York during 1991. Overall capture success of all trap types was similar (P > 0.10). More Long-tailed Weasels were captured in Havahart traps (P < 0.05). Havahart traps sprung without capture were observed more frequently than other trap types (P < 0.001). The occurrence of empty, sprung wooden traps was related to rainfall (P < 0.001). Trap-related injuries of Long-tailed Weasels captured in Havahart traps included skin abrasions and broken canines.