Wolf snares/strict requirements

[Lee Borgersen]

Minnesota wolf trappers using wolf snares must follow strict requirements specific to the wolf-trapping season.

A snare is essentially a loop of cable wire. One end of the cable is typically secured to a tree. The loop is suspended from a branch or another wire. It is designed so that when the wolf puts its head through the loop and moves forward or struggles, the loop tightens around its neck, suffocating the animal. According to Department of Natural Resources rules for this wolf trapping season, a snare must be designed and set according to the following specifications:


•It must have a maximum loop diameter greater than 10 inches but less than or equal to 18 inches.


•It must have a cable diameter of at least 7/64 inches.


•It must include a stop affixed to the cable to ensure that the portion of the snare that makes up the noose loop may not be less than 3 inches in diameter when fully closed.


•It must include a breakaway device that would cause the snare loop to break when pulled by a moose.


•It must include a diverter wire that extends 27 inches in both directions, measured perpendicular to and from the top of the snare loop. The diverter wires must be positioned at an angle no more than 20 degrees from the horizontal plane of the top of the snare, and the snare must be set within 20 yards of bait. Diverter wires are used to reduce the chances of catching a moose or deer in the snare.


•A snare may not be set so that the bottom of the loop is more than 18 inches above the first surface beneath the bottom of the set snare loop.


•Licensed wolf trappers shall set a wolf snare for wolves no closer than 500 feet to another wolf snare set by the same licensed wolf trapper.


•Wolf snares may not be set in deer, moose or elk trails.