Pete the Possum

Well update of sorts, I got 5 more critters this way so the system had shown its merits. I also found it difficult to stay on the couch into wee hours and if I wasnt quick enough miss the opportunity.

So I built a trap. It has the same sensor that alerts me with an Email when tripped. I still use the Wildcat to dispatch trapped critters. It has worked two nights in a row with the first night resulting in a pre-mature exit of possum (escaped in a weak spot, now fixed).

Principle is simple, banana attched via a clip gets pulled in which a cord is attached. The other end of cord pulls out a pin that pivots back and drops the heavy all metal gate.

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Sensor on it still because it allows me to 'empty' the trap ASAP. Works every time. No raccoons yet, they probably look at it and go, "yerr, right, like I'm gonna get in THAT thing." Got a dog-safe coon leg trap for them also sensor-afied for same reasons.

They are part of my Xfinity Home Alarm system. I set them to "Inform 24/7 Only" so they dont have anything to do with my actual alarm. When they are tripped I have it set to E-mail me.

They are magnetic with the main one housing a 3 volt CR2 battery. Uses the Zigbee wireless protocol.

I havent seen many possums on my game cam as of late..RACCOONS took over. Now using dog proof trap tied to same sensor so I know immediatly if one is out there needing attention. Doesnt count as hunting, why I havent posted pics. This one was the largest possum I actually hunted before the trap was made.

I generally would have 3 seconds after opening the back door, shouldering with weapon hot and light on and bringing head into view before they would stop staring and run. After Pete I wouldnt try at all unless a headshot was certain. I did sit N' stalk in a stand on 3 nights till 1 AM to try to bag a raccoon with exciting NiteSite footage but had only cats come to view. Hence the trap.