5 Effective Survival Traps and Snares You Need to Know

 

In a survival situation, securing food is one of the most critical challenges. Traps and snares, when set up properly, can be life-saving tools to help you catch small game efficiently. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five essential traps and snares that work, combining knowledge from bushcraft experts and practical survival techniques. Whether you’re in the wilderness or preparing for an emergency, these methods will improve your chances of finding food.

1. Wire Rabbit Snare

The wire rabbit snare is one of the simplest and most effective traps for small game. To create one, you’ll need a sturdy wire or cord. Form a small loop at one end, and thread the other end through it to create a noose. Attach the snare securely to a stake or a tree. Position it on a rabbit trail where you’ve spotted signs of activity, such as droppings or tracks. The noose should be just large enough to catch the animal’s neck when it passes through.

Pro Tip: Use camouflage to hide the snare and minimize human scent by wearing gloves during setup.

2. Spring Pole Snare

This trap utilizes the tension of a bent sapling to snare and lift small game. Here’s how to set it up:

• Find a flexible sapling and bend it towards the ground.
• Tie a snare loop to the sapling and position it on an animal trail.
• Use a trigger mechanism, such as a toggle stick, to hold the sapling in place until the animal trips the snare.

Once the animal steps into the loop and triggers the mechanism, the sapling will snap back, tightening the snare and lifting the game off the ground.

3. Lift Pole Snare (Flip-Up Snare)

If you don’t have a suitable sapling nearby, the lift pole snare is an excellent alternative. This trap involves using a heavy counterweight, such as a log, to pull the snare upwards. Here’s how it works:

• Attach a snare loop to a sturdy stick.
• Use a trigger mechanism to hold the counterweight in place.
• Once the animal trips the trigger, the counterweight lifts the snare, trapping the game.

This method is particularly useful in open areas where saplings are scarce.

4. Baited Cubby Snare

The baited cubby snare is a more strategic approach, designed to lure animals into a confined space. To set it up:

• Build a small enclosure or “cubby” using sticks or rocks.
• Place bait inside the cubby, such as food scraps or small game attractants.
• Position a snare loop at the entrance of the cubby.

When the animal enters to grab the bait, it’ll trigger the snare and become trapped. For added efficiency, this trap can also be combined with a sapling spring pole or a Spanish windlass trap.

5. Spanish Windlass Trap

The Spanish windlass trap is a sophisticated snare that uses rotational force to capture game. Here’s how to build it:

• Attach a snare loop to a stick.
• Use a twisted cord or vine as a tensioning mechanism.
• Once the animal triggers the trap, the tension rapidly rotates the stick, tightening the snare around the animal.

This setup is highly effective for larger small game and provides a reliable alternative to spring pole traps.

Why Learn Survival Traps and Snares?

Understanding how to construct and deploy these traps isn’t just a survival skill—it’s a crucial aspect of bushcraft and outdoor preparedness. In emergency situations where food sources are scarce, these tools can make the difference between survival and failure. Practice building these traps in a safe and controlled environment to hone your skills before you need them in the wild.

Watch the Video Guide

 

Final Thoughts

Mastering these five survival traps and snares can significantly enhance your bushcraft skills and preparedness for survival situations. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a beginner looking to expand your knowledge, these techniques are essential tools for self-reliance in the wild. Start practicing today and be ready for whatever challenges nature throws your way!

September 15, 2025 Tags : Deadfalls and Snares

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