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HOSP bypassed trap

16 years ago

I put a trap inside the birdhouse and caught a HOSP the first day. I reset it the next day, and saw a HOSP fly into and stick his head out the hole. I went to look and the trap didn't go off - it is still in set position.

Does anyone know if it's common for HOSP to get around the trap? I can't imagine they would be able to build a nest around the trap, so eventually he'd be caught.

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Comments (4)

dzyg
16 years ago
Check the trip rod where you set the trap, did it get bent and is it holding the part down that is supposed to snap up? I always set my traps as lightly as possible so they go off very easily.

Donna
bet_from_ct
16 years ago
The bird may not have stepped on the trigger. Or it could get tangled up in nesting material if there is a nest in it. Leave it there, monitor hourly.

Bet

Here is a link that might be useful: dealing with a wary male HOSP
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craftylady6
16 years ago
I've watched HOSP go into the trap and turn around in the hole... they didn't actually go into the box fully. It's kind of frustrating, but I guess it's part of their house inspecting process. I've seen it happen several times. They do eventually go it, patience!

I trapped severl HOSP and now they are leary of my "trap house". I THINK they are nesting in the gutter.. nature should take care of that with the next good rain.. My son wants to help, is WAY too eager too, kill these birds if I get him a BB gun... I'm afraid of broken windows, wrong birds being shot, and feeders with holes in them! But my traps won't work if they don't try to nest there... what to do...
Sandra
bedelia
Original Author
16 years ago
Well, he got trapped this morning so he wasn't so smart after all. Thanks for all of your advice.

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