Getting Started with Predator Control
Getting started can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't need to be complicated.
People start trapping for all sorts of reasons. Some want to protect native birds and bats. Others are tired of rats around the house, possums in fruit trees, or pests damaging gardens & native planting.
Many Tamahere residents begin with a single trap near the house, garden, shed or compost area and quickly discover they can make a real difference.
Why trap predators?
Predator control can help:
reduce rats and mice around homes, sheds and chicken coops
protect fruit trees, gardens and native vegetation from possums
support native birds, bats, lizards and insects
improve the health of local gullies, streams and river margins
contribute to wider community predator-control efforts across Tamahere
Every trap helps. Whether you're trapping in a garden, lifestyle block, or along a gully or river edge, you're contributing to a healthier local environment.
Where should I start?
For many properties, a good starting point is:
rat control near buildings, compost, chicken coops, sheds or fruit trees
possum control where there are trees, shelterbelts, gullies or signs of browsing
regular checking and recording in Trap.NZ so you can see what is happening over time
Mustelids (stoats, ferrets and weasels) are occasionally found in Tamahere. If you think you have a mustelid problem, please contact us for advice.
Choosing a trapping approach
Around the house and garden
Many Tamahere residents start with a few rat traps around the house, sheds, compost area, chicken coop or fruit trees. This is often the simplest and most cost-effective way to begin.
Larger blocks, gullies and river edges
If you have a larger property, a gully, stream or river edge, or areas that are difficult to access regularly, self-resetting traps such as the AT220 can be a good option.
These traps automatically re-set and are particularly useful for busy households or properties where frequent trap checking and maintenance may be difficult.
Predator Free Tamahere members can access discounted pricing on AT220 traps through our group purchasing arrangements. Get in touch if you’re considering an AT220 for your property.
If your property includes a gully or river edge, which are often natural corridors for predators, coordinated trapping with your neighbours can make an even bigger difference.
Not sure what traps best suit your property?
Before contacting us, you may find the answer in one of the resources below.
If you're still unsure, please get in touch- we're happy to help point you in the right direction.
Explore our resources
Getting Started
Want to Improve Your Efforts?
Need a trap?
Predator Free Tamahere has a small trap library and we can also help with advice on suitable trapping options if you’re undecided about what traps to buy. We also sell T-Rex rat traps complete with a wooden tunnel for $25.
Learn more about traps and purchasing options →
Recording Your Results
Recording your catches in Trap.NZ helps you track what's happening on your property and contributes to our understanding of predator control across Tamahere.
Join our Trap.NZ Project
Stay Connected
Join our contact list to receive occasional updates, trapping tips, community events and project news.