Wild hogs are an Old World species which were once domesticated for their delectable meat and utilitarian lard. These habitat generalists are so highly adaptable and intelligent that they have managed to thrive and prosper even amidst the toughest of terrains and climates. Today, wild pigs can be found in almost every American state; from snow cloaked Michigan to the scorching arid lands of Arizona.
Texas endures the most havoc at the hands of these voracious invaders. 3+ million wild hogs populate the Lone Star state, out of the estimated 9 million residing in America. And, owing to their enormous reproductive potential, the numbers are only escalating.
Wild Hog Management
Managing the menace of the wild hog explosion has become a top priority for Texas and its people. Amidst the search for various tools and techniques to control the hog population, trapping has emerged as the most effective, effortless, and budget friendly option.
What Makes Our Wild Hog Trap Effective?
Our smartly designed, well-built hog trap is the stepping stone for your success. Our 12’ Round Drop wild hog trap:
- Hand Built and Made to Order in Austin County, Texas
- Durable with Rock Solid Construction
- Suspended up to 36 inches off the ground to make it undetectable even for the “trap smart” pigs
- Provides 360° access to lure an entire sounder into the trap
- Features swift trap mechanism which does not allow any time for escape
- Easy and quick to assemble and move
Setting the Hog Trap for Success
Step #1: Establish your trap
First, scout for a spot which has signs of wild hog activity like:
- Rooting
- Wallows
- Track marks
- Shady wetlands
- Low lying areas near water sources like rivers, springs, and creeks
Then, set up your trap in an area with thick shade upwind of bedding and loafing areas, on leveled land, and in a location which can be accessed by vehicles.
Step #2: Pre-baiting
Pre-baiting entices the pigs to visit the trap site regularly with the sounder and conditions them to remain unalarmed in the presence of the trap. However, we would not recommend setting up a traditional trap before pre-baiting as most smart hogs are “trap shy”.
Tips:
- Use a remote sensing surveillance camera to monitor activity.
- Create a smooth trail of bait to the center of the trap where you will place most of the bait.
Step #3: Baiting
The following edibles are good for baiting: fermented corn, rice, sorghum, or wheat; acorns; overripe fruit; and molasses.
Tip:
- You can make the bait even more attractive with commercial scents meant to attract wild hogs.
Step #4: Humane euthanizing
- Use a .22 long rifle or larger calibers for shooting
- Make it quick to avoid raising panic
- Do not stick your rifle into the mesh of the cage
- Shoot preferably from an elevated platform
- Take a precise frontal brain shot or an oblique shot.
The wild pig population is a serious threat to the economy and ecology of Texas and surrounding states including Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Alabama. Call now to purchase our 12’ Round Drop Wild Hog Trap – 979-661-1535 or 979-270-2161.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wild hog drop-trap?
A wild hog drop trap is an innovative trap that is meant to capture even the “trap smart” hogs. The trap remains suspended above the ground which does not raise suspicion and the entire sounder walks in to enjoy the bait feast. When then trip the trap, the lightning fast trapping mechanism cages them instantly.
How many wild hogs are trapped in Texas each year?
In 2010, an estimated 20,889 wild hogs were trapped in Texas according to a study conducted by The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Trapping accounts for 57% of wild hog removal efforts.
Is trapping wild hogs effective population control?
Out of all the wild hog population control techniques, trapping is the most efficient, effortless and budget friendly. And, with the blessing of technology the traditional traps are rapidly getting replaced with more sophisticated traps. Thus, making traps the best tool for effective population control.
How do you trap wild pigs?
The process of trapping wild pigs involves 5 major steps:
- Setting up the trap
- Pre-baiting
- Baiting
- Euthanizing
- Disposal
