Larsen trap
A Larsen trap is a device used to live trap wildbirds. It is used in avian predator control programs,[1] and in scientific research.[2]
It is essentially a cage with two (or more) compartments. A previously caught magpie or crow is kept in the decoy compartment, and this attracts territory holders who see the decoy as an intruder.[3]
Use in the United Kingdom[edit]
The Larsen trap is legal to use in the United Kingdom under general licence.[1] It is the most widely used magpie population control method amongst gamekeepers, magpies are also controlled by conservationists.[4] It is also used to trap magpies by those concerned for the well-being of nesting song-birds.[5]
The decoy bird must be properly cared for according to local regulations.[3] In 2003 the RSPCA successfully appealed an acquittal of a case in which a single decoy magpie was used throughout the summer in a cage which was too small for the bird to stretch its wings, contrary to the Wildlife and Countryside Act.[6]
The law in Scotland permits their use without any training in how to handle and kill birds humanely.[7] Legally set traps are often vandalised.[8]
References[edit]
- ^ a b "Trapping Pest Birds". British Association for Shooting. Archived from the original on 10 August 2011. Retrieved 14 April 2011.
- ^ Hansen, H; CA Smedshaug; G.A. Sonerud (2000). "Preroosting behaviour of hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix)". Canadian Journal of Zoology. 78 (10): 1814. doi:10.1139/cjz-78-10-1813. Retrieved 31 January 2011.[permanent dead link]
- ^ a b "Hints for using Larsen trap" (PDF). Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust. Retrieved 6 March 2012.
- ^ Connor, Steve (19 August 2008). "Magpies reflect on a newly discovered intellectual prowess". The Independent. Archived from the original on 18 November 2011. Retrieved 31 January 2011.
- ^ "One for sorrow, two for a magpie on death row". The Daily Telegraph. London. 6 April 2003. Archived from the original on 13 April 2015. Retrieved 31 January 2011.
- ^ "Larsen trapper convicted of cruelty to magpie". The Yorkshire Post. 1 July 2003. Archived from the original on 11 October 2012. Retrieved 31 January 2011.
- ^ "Loophole that allows anyone to 'trap and kill wild birds' in Scotland". WildlifeExtra.com. Extra Online Limited. Archived from the original on 25 October 2010. Retrieved 31 January 2011.
- ^ "POLICE WARNING OVER CAGE TRAPS". Kirriemuir Herald. 23 April 2008. Archived from the original on 8 March 2012. Retrieved 31 January 2011.