Fox snaring

Foxes can be prolific predators of gamebirds, ground-nesting birds, small mammals and young livestock.  but can be controlled by several different methods. They can be controlled by a number of different methods but no one method is suitable for all circumstances.

Modern fox snares (also referred to as humane cable restraints) are designed to only catch and hold. It has been illegal for more than 40 years to use any snare which is self-locking. ie. those designed to kill. These modern designs correctly used exceed internationally recognised standards for restraining traps.

A strategically set snare will catch foxes at times and in locations when other methods of control either won’t work or are impractical – for instance, when the cover is too high to be able to see or shoot a fox or the presence of livestock makes it unsafe to use a rifle.

Before setting a snare, it’s important to understand and comply with the legislation and familiarise yourself with any relevant codes of practice for your area. The rules can, and often do, vary. For example, in Scotland, there is a requirement to be trained and accredited before you can use snares.

It’s your responsibility to ensure that a snare is set correctly and legally.