Cage Trapping Coypus (Myocastor coypus) on Baited Rafts

Abstract

(1) The traditional method of controlling coypus (Myocastor coypus Molina) in Britain has been to set cage traps on the banks of waterways. This method was compared with setting traps on baited rafts. Traps on rafts were at least 50% more likely to catch a coypu. (2) Small rafts, which could be easily deployed in control operations, were shown to be as effective as larger rafts when used as a platform for cage traps. (3) Raft trapping reduces the risk of non-target animals; only half as many were caught on rafts in traps set on the land. Animals caught on rafts were also less likely to die from accidents. (4) Raft trapping is recommended for coypu control as it is effective and is less hazardous to non-target animals than other techniques.