By T.J. Turrisi
Meadville Tribune
VERNON TOWNSHIP —
VERNON TOWNSHIP — For anyone who is interested in learning about trapping this fall, Antlers and Anglers is the place to be today.
Saturday, Conneautville resident and Pennsylvania Trappers Association member Jason Taylor displayed his tools and talents in the area of canine trapping in Hangar 1 at Port Meadville Airport.
“I started coon hunting in college with a friend who was a trapper,” he said. “I got interested and started trapping and eventually got involved with the Pennsylvania Trappers Association.”
Taylor focused on coyote trapping, which has been an area of local interest among outdoorsmen of late due to increased numbers.
Taylor explained that effectively regulating a coyote population is difficult; however, he believes this area has done well.
“You have to effectively kill 75 percent of the population every year for a period of time to have a decreased population of coyotes,” said Taylor in reference to studies. “They are very resilient.
“The population around here is being tamed down with the deer hunting pressure, along with trappers and guys hunting with dogs when the snow starts flying — which is a good thing.”
They are a very aggressive animal and can often be found in residential areas.
“They’re very adaptable,” he said. “I have a lot of success in wetland areas and agricultural areas. They will reside wherever they can find food. I have heard of people seeing them right here on the runways.”
Taylor prefers red fox trapping, but the number of dense populations of red fox is down with the influx of coyotes.
He demonstrated how to stake a coyote trap to avoid losing a catch, as well as how to do a traditional dirt-hole set.
While effective trapping coyotes is important, Taylor explained that beginners may want to start with some less difficult targets.
“Start out trapping muskrats and raccoons and get some success,” he said. “That will get you accustomed to working with your traps.
“I’ve caught enough coyotes to learn to respect the animal. Coyotes are not behind every tree. It’s an elusive, highly sought-after predator.”
Jim Murphy will be doing a one-hour class on general trapping at 10 a.m. today in Hangar 2. Coyote Tom will also be available for a seminar in Hangar 2 at 2:15 p.m.
T.J. Turrisi can be reached at 724-6370, ext. 276 or by e-mail at tjturrisi@meadvilletribune.com.
