1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and effective use of the CiT 299625 Vole Wire Trap. Please read these instructions carefully before setup and operation to ensure proper functionality and user safety. This product is designed for the humane and efficient control of voles.
2. Safety Information
- Always handle the trap with care. The spring mechanism is under tension when armed and can cause injury if not handled properly.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Wear protective gloves when handling the trap, especially after deployment, to avoid transferring human scent to the trap and to protect against potential pathogens from captured animals.
- Do not modify the trap. Use only as intended.
3. Product Overview
The CiT 299625 Vole Wire Trap is a robust, wire-based trap designed for capturing voles. It features a spring-loaded mechanism and a trigger plate system.
Figure 1: The CiT 299625 Vole Wire Trap. This image shows the copper-colored wire trap with its main body, the spring mechanism at one end, and the trigger plate assembly with a small chain in the center.
Components:
- Main Wire Frame: The primary structure of the trap.
- Spring Mechanism: Located at one end, provides the force for the trap to close.
- Trigger Plate Assembly: The central component that holds the trap open when armed and releases upon contact. Includes a small chain.
- Setting Bar/Hook: A small metal piece used to hold the trap in the armed position.
4. Setup and Arming Instructions
Arming this trap requires careful attention due to its strong spring. It is recommended to wear thick gloves during this process.
- Prepare the Trap: Ensure the trap is clean and free of debris.
- Compress the Spring: Hold the trap firmly. Using both hands, carefully compress the spring mechanism by pushing the two main arms of the trap together. This will open the jaws of the trap.
- Engage the Trigger: While holding the arms compressed, hook the small setting bar (often a small metal pin or loop) onto the trigger plate assembly. The trigger plate should rest securely, holding the trap open. This step can be challenging due to the spring tension. Ensure the trigger plate is stable before releasing pressure.
- Test the Trigger (Optional, with caution): Gently tap the trigger plate to ensure it releases smoothly. Re-arm if necessary.
- Baiting (Optional): While not always necessary for wire traps, a small piece of carrot or apple can be placed near or on the trigger plate to attract voles.
Placement:
- Identify active vole runways or tunnels. Voles often create distinct paths in grass or just below the soil surface.
- Place the armed trap directly into the vole runway, ensuring the trigger plate is positioned where the vole will step on it.
- For best results, cover the trap lightly with grass or soil to blend it into the environment, but do not obstruct the trigger mechanism.
5. Operating the Trap
Once set, the trap is designed to activate when a vole steps on the trigger plate, causing the spring-loaded arms to close rapidly.
- Regular Checks: Inspect the trap at least once daily. This ensures humane treatment of captured animals and allows for prompt removal.
- Removal of Captured Voles: Approach the trap carefully. While wearing gloves, depress the spring arms to release the captured vole. Dispose of the vole according to local regulations or ethical considerations.
- Resetting: After clearing, the trap can be reset following the "Setup and Arming Instructions" (Section 4).
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: After each capture or periodically, clean the trap with water and a stiff brush to remove dirt, blood, or scent. Allow it to dry completely to prevent rust.
- Storage: Store the trap in a dry place when not in use to prolong its lifespan. Ensure it is disarmed before storage.
- Inspection: Regularly check for any signs of damage, rust, or wear that might impair the trap's function. Replace if significantly damaged.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Trap is difficult to arm. | Strong spring tension; trigger mechanism not aligning correctly. | Ensure you are applying even pressure to both arms. Use thick gloves for better grip and protection. Practice arming in a safe environment. If the setting bar is rounded, it might be inherently more difficult to set than square ones. |
| Trap is not catching voles. | Incorrect placement; human scent on trap; trap malfunction; voles avoiding area. | Re-evaluate placement for active runways. Clean trap thoroughly to remove human scent. Ensure trap is fully functional. Consider alternative pest control methods if voles are not present. |
| Trap triggers prematurely. | Trigger plate too sensitive; unstable placement. | Ensure the setting bar is securely engaged. Place the trap on a flat, stable surface. Avoid placing where vibrations or wind could trigger it. |
8. Specifications
| Brand: | CiT |
| Model Number: | 299625 |
| Product Dimensions: | 37 x 26 x 10 cm |
| Item Weight: | 146 g (0.15 Kilograms) |
| Number of Pieces: | 2 (Pack of 2) |
| Material: | Wire (Copper-colored, likely steel or similar alloy) |
| Pet Type (Target): | Livestock (Voles) |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly. CiT does not provide specific warranty details within this manual.
For further assistance or inquiries, please contact CiT customer support through their official website or the retailer from whom the product was purchased.
