How to use a Trapinator possum trap
The Trapinator is a tree-mounted kill trap designed specifically to target possums.
It is housed in a white plastic box with a red lever that allows you to easily set the spring-set trap. It is triggered when a possum interacts with the bite bar.
Always ensure a trap is un-set before engaging with it.
Always wear gloves when handling your trap and wash your hands thoroughly.
Where to put your trap
The Trapinator is designed to be mounted on a tree, a post or a fence support (so long as it is upright).
When selecting a tree, look for signs of possums such as scratches and horizontal bite marks. Find a tree roughly the same diameter as a dinner plate as this is a good size for possums to climb.
Using a chew card is the best way to find a good place for your trap. These show which predators are around and where they are more likely to interact with a trap.
How to install your trap
Check the trap is unset. Remove the lid and take out the bait bar by squeezing it together. Hold the trap 1.2 metres from the ground on your tree.
Put one screw in the centre hole at the top. Put two more screws either side. Put one final screw in the hole at the bottom. Don’t make them too tight as this may warp the plastic. Ensure the trap is in a firm position and doesn’t move too much if you give it a gentle shake.
Place the bait bar back in position. Bait your trap by turning the white bite block upwards and applying your chosen bait to the side of the block that faces you. Do not place any bait on the other side of the block. Rotate the block back down. Put the lid back on.
How to set your trap
Now it’s time to set the trap! To do this, firmly push the red lever away from you. To un-set the trap, gently release the lever by firmly easing it towards you.
What bait to use
Try peanut butter, jam, nutella, or a specially made possum dough.
Never use a meat-based lure as this may increase the risk of non-target species interacting with the trap.
Possums forage using their sight and sense of smell. Use a bright and smelly lure (called “blaze”) to attract them. Mix 2 cups white flour, half a cup of icing sugar and a few teaspoons of curry powder or cinnamon together in an old plastic bottle and sprinkle under the trap.
Checking your trap
Check the trap frequently (every few days) when you first put it out.
When you catch something, simply release the trap by pushing the red lever away from you.
Dispose of carcasses by burying them in the garden (planting a native on top can be a nice touch), put in your compost bin or double-bag and place in Council rubbish bags.
Sharing trap data
Recording trap catch data is an essential part of predator control. We use an online tool called Trap.NZ to report catches. Read our guide to using Trap.NZ and let us know what you catch!
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