Trap Monitoring System

AWE is pleased to announce the development of a trap monitoring system (TMS) for predator control programs. Research has shown the high populations of mid-sized, egg-eating mammals can substantially reduce productivity of ground nesting birds, such as quail, turkeys, waterfowl, pheasants, and certain turtle species. Wildlife managers have responded to this problem by using large numbers of “box” traps to control these species. The problem with maintaining large numbers of box traps is that the capture rate is fairly low and a considerable amount of manpower, time and equipment is required to check these traps on a daily basis. AWE developed the TMS system to allow wildlife managers to quickly check large numbers of traps spread over large areas. The TMS system works by using a scanning receiver to monitor the status of up to 800 traps. The TMS system can check the open or closed status of up to 100 traps in under 7 minutes. If an animal is captured the transmitter on the trap sends out a unique signal identifying which trap has been activated. When the animal is removed from the trap and the door is reset, the LED attached to the transmitter and the unit itself turns off allowing the manager to know that the transmitter has been properly reset. AWE currently has TMS systems in operation in seven southeastern states and South Dakota. According to field personnel using TMS systems, the entire cost can often be recovered within 1.5 years of implementation. The transmitter associated with the TMS system has been modified to work on pig traps and is used on conibear/box traps in the prairie pothole region. A lower-cost system is available for properties under 1,000-1,500 acres that uses a magnet-mount antenna and a portable scanning receiver. Please call Brad at 850-508-4111 for more information. Click on the Trap Monitoring link for a more detailed article on how this system is used on quail hunting properties. Please contact us to learn how a TMS may help you achieve your wildlife management goals.