rapping List
If all goes well you will have no need for much of what is on this list, however there is nothing like being in a situation and wishing you had brought that one extra item...
- Permit - it doesn't hurt to carry a copy of the regulations as well as a 3-186
- Trap
- Trap supplies - if using a Dho-Gazza, extra paper clips and tabs are useful as is extra string; if you are trapping with any noose system, bring extra nooses.
- Nail clippers - if you are using a noosed trap, nail clippers are a safe way to clip the nooses without posing danger to the bird or yourself.
- Hood - preferably several in different sizes
- Masking tape - taping the raptor's feet after trapping prevents them from harming themselves or others
- Duct tape - always useful
- Blanket and beach towels - to approach the raptor on the trap without being seen and to carefully hold the raptor to remove it from the trap
- Bait - this could be mice or sparrows. Dark mice work better than lighter mice, and two work better than one. Some have even used toy pigeons and had success.
- Safe container for the bait - both for transporting and for the trap. If using mice, make sure they have plenty of paper to nest in, apples, and lettuce.
- Paper towels
- Twist ties
- Rubber bands - for protecting the tail
- Wire cutters
- Needle nose pliers
- Hammer - for setting the side poles of the Dho-gazza, but it's generally helpful
- Dental floss - handy to fix Dho-gazza problems
- Panty hose - white or a color that contrasts with the bird will make this easier
- Scissors or knife - very handy, and to cut the toe from the pantyhose
- Gloves - specific falconry gloves aren't necessary here, but lined welding gloves are very useful
- Binoculars - for spotting the birds
- Camera
- First aid kit - both for humans and birds
- Hand soap and sanitizer - if you end up trapping an obviously sick bird you will want a way to prevent transmitting diseases
- Thermos of coffee
- No off colored feet, off colored cere, nares, skin, or extensive parasitic infestation
- Look at the beak and feather condition
- Look at the foot size
- Consider what you are hunting. If you want to take squirrels, a larger female Red-Tail may be better suited. If you trap and release a sick bird, clean your hands thoroughly before trapping a new bird. Carry some hand sanitizer such as Purell with you when you trap to avoid transmitting diseases.