NWCO - Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Trapping and Capture Methods Questions and Answers

Question 1

A NWCO is dealing with squirrels entering an attic. After identifying the primary entry point, the operator installs a device that allows the squirrels to exit but not re-enter. All other potential entry points have been sealed. What is this type of device called?

Accepted Answer

A one-way door or excluder

Answer

A one-way door or excluder is specifically designed for this purpose. It has a spring-loaded door or a funnel shape that allows an animal to push its way out of a structure but prevents it from getting back in. This is a key component of humane wildlife exclusion.

Question 2

When using a cage trap for a raccoon, which of the following is considered a best practice to increase the likelihood of capture and ensure the animal's welfare?

Accepted Answer

Covering the trap with a cloth or blanket after a capture.

Answer

Draping a cloth over the cage after a raccoon is captured helps to calm the animal, reducing stress and the risk of injury to both the animal and the operator. Traps should be placed in areas of known raccoon activity, baited with appropriate food like marshmallows or sweet items to avoid non-targets like cats, and checked at least every 24 hours.

Question 3

Which of the following trap types is designed to be a live-restraint device, is highly species-selective for canines, and is often considered more humane than traditional snares?

Accepted Answer

A cable restraint with appropriate stops and swivels

Answer

Cable restraints are modern versions of snares designed to capture an animal alive and hold it with minimal injury. They incorporate features like relaxing locks (which prevent the loop from overtightening), stops (to limit how small the loop can close), and swivels (to prevent twisting). This makes them a more humane and selective live-restraint option compared to older snare designs.

Question 4

A nuisance wildlife control operator is setting multiple traps on a residential property. According to common regulations and best practices, what must be present on every trap?

Accepted Answer

A tag with the operator's name and permit number.

Answer

Most state regulations require that all traps be clearly identified with a tag bearing the owner's name and address or their NWCO permit/license number. This allows for accountability and identification by law enforcement and the public.

Question 5

Body-gripping traps, such as the Conibear™ type, are highly effective but have specific restrictions on their use on land in many jurisdictions. What is a common restriction for larger body-gripping traps?

Accepted Answer

They must be set within a box, enclosure, or be partially submerged in water.

Answer

To prevent the capture of non-target animals, especially domestic pets, many states require that larger body-gripping traps set on land be placed within a restrictive box or enclosure with a limited opening, or be set in a submerged or partially submerged fashion. This significantly reduces the chances of a non-target species encountering the trap.

NWCO - Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Practice Test

NWCO - Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Practice Test

NWCO - Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Trapping and Capture Methods Questions and Answers