I've noticed that a lot of North American and Alaskan trappers use small traps to trap coyote so my question is:-
"what is the width and length of an average coyote pad(foot) and what size traps do you use?
Al

I've cought them in 1 1/2 coilsprings but prefere #3's especially in the snow. Here's a pic i took while skinning.

Thanks Johnd ,most of the true dingo I've caught have a pad about 3 inches wide,but the crossbreeds or hybrids are over 4 inches wide depending on the cross.
I've been using the MB650C which would have to be the best allround trap I've ever used.
The true dingo is about the same size and weight as your coyote.
I've wondered if a smaller trap would be just as efective
Al

You have two Aussies asking simular questions about trap size and pad size on wolf and coyote.
I beat you to the draw Ed..LOL
Al

Recieved this comment from MJM ;-I would say the avg coyote foot around here is about 2 1/4 inches wide. I have never measured any, but will once I start trapping. We don't get any that are up around 3" here. They are / do get some larger ones back east. Most ours will run 25 to 32 pounds, depending on age and sex.
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M J M

Al,

I was reading the report that Ed just sent me this morning (REVIEW: WELFARE OUTCOMES OF LEG-HOLD TRAP USE IN VICTORIA.)

It is a facinating (albeit scarey!) paper. I did not get very far into it yet. It appeared that for some reason, those doggers are using awfully large traps that probably aren't necessary. The only reason I could see might be if they were trapping at some of the higher elevations in Gippsland where snow could be a problem...)

Dingos seem to have just slightly bigger feet than most coyotes, but certainly nothing approaching the size of wolves.

That said, most of our observations here seem to suggest that canid foot damage can best be minimized by off-set, lamination and center-swivelling. Larger trap size is not as important as those other variables. Can't imagine how it would be any different in Oz with dingo.

Pete

It seems I have heard that in the past some Aussie dingo trappers used traps with teeth. Is this in practice still?
Also, can you use snares?

Well said Pete!
One of my plans for this year that got forgotten was to take pictures of coyote feet in the trap before being removed and after to show what little damage is done compared to traps that don't have the O.L.
All my traps are offset and laminated #3's.
, and Most are MB 650's. Due to the ESA crap on lynx It looks like I'll be only allowed a 5-3/8 inside jaw width next year, so I bought some MB 550's to try. They work real well, but we didn't have any snow either.

Hi Alan,
Mate having caught both coyotes and dingoes including many crosses I would say eastern coyotes and dingo/dingo crosses for the most part have similar sized feet. Many of the reasons for the use of large traps hear ar historical (my father used them and my grandfather) the other is the lack of knowledge on how to target the foot with a smaller pan (treddel). As you know Alan I've worked in many areas of Queensland and NSW and the attidtude toward smaller traps exists throughout! Mate the Victorians changes from the Lane Trap to a Bridger 5 with padded jaws then when new regs came in they had to change again went to all Jakes!! After just buying hundreds of #5s!! Have a look at the new codes of practice NSW has developed as a new National Standard. Pads only!!
Regards,
Ed

Alan,
The Lane dog trap was developed by a guy by the name of Henry Lane of Wndnesfield , UK in around 1930 there have been no change in desight since then. The only real change was made about 2000 when they started making a padded trap!

Ed

Yes I'm fully aware of the history of the Lane trap.
Winston Phillips from Cooma RLPB was the person that got the Stock Brand(LANES) padded traps up and running.
I dont use them any more,just the MB 650 and 550.
Send me the new code of practice .
Al