★★★☆☆ Intermediate 30-45 min per snare

Basic Snare Traps for Small Game

Simple wire snares that work while you sleep. The most efficient way to acquire protein in a survival situation.

What You'll Need

01

Identify animal runs

Look for narrow trails through brush with fresh droppings, tracks, or fur caught on branches. Game trails are typically 3-6 inches wide for rabbits and squirrels. Set snares ON the trail, not beside it. Animals are creatures of habit.
02

Build the basic loop snare

Form a small loop (1/4 inch) at one end of the wire by twisting it around itself. Thread the other end through this loop to create an adjustable noose. For rabbits, the noose should be about fist-sized (3-4 inches diameter).
03

Set the snare height

Suspend the noose at the animal's head height — about 4 inches off the ground for rabbits, 1-2 inches for squirrels on a log. Anchor the other end securely to a stake, sapling, or sturdy branch.
04

Create natural funnels

Use sticks and brush to narrow the trail on both sides of the snare. Force the animal through the center of the noose. Don't block the trail completely — just guide it. Make the funnel look natural.
05

Set multiple snares and check daily

Set at least 5-10 snares along different runs. Success rate for a single snare is about 10-15%. Check every 12 hours. Reset any that were triggered. Move snares that haven't caught anything in 48 hours.

Warning: Snare traps are regulated or illegal in many areas outside survival situations. Know your local laws. Practice with empty snares for technique only.

The number one trapping rule: set more traps. Volume is how you eat.
Rub snare wire with mud or charcoal to remove human scent and shiny appearance.
Place snares where trails pass through natural choke points: fence gaps, log crossings, brush tunnels.
In a real survival scenario, your snare line should be your first priority after shelter and water.