How to Join

Backyard traps are one of the best way we can reduce populations of pests and create an environment for native species to thrive in an urban area. We need more backyard trappers to help us! Checking your trap will only take a few minutes a week and will contribute to saving many native birds.

We build our own wooden trap boxes that host T-Rex traps. Thanks to the support of grants and koha, these are available to our backyard trappers for $20. We will support you with trapping tips, H&S, maintenance and how to record your catches using a free app called Trap.NZ.

T-Rex traps and wooden boxes used in our backyard trapping program

Drop your Details & Adopt a Trap

If you are interested in becoming a trapping legend or finding out more, please enter your details into the form below or email us at traps@predatorfreericcarton.org.nz

First Name
Last Name
Email
Address – for coding up your trap
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You don’t need much to be a backyard trapper, but if items are a barrier to you and your whānau being involved please get in touch.

  • Tasty bait – We would recommend peanut butter (any kind/brand) or a chocolate spread. Good Nature sell a nut-free rat lure available at Mitre 10. The bait will only be able to be used for your trap and not for your toast!
  • Utensil – You will need a metal butter knife for removing old and adding fresh bait to your bait cup. A pair of metal tongs may also come in handy.
  • Gloves – A pair of gardening gloves is essential to create a barrier between us and any germs that pests carry. We also use many fragrances that could deter pests from interacting with the traps. Always wash your hands afterwards.
  • Device – For logging your catches and rebaits. Trap.nz is available as a free app on your phone or you can access it via the website on the computer. We will help you with this. This is a great way to get children involved who may not be confident in dealing with the trap.
Backyard trapping kit

What Zone are you in?

We have divided our project into zones that are bounded by main roads. Each zone has key areas of green spaces and methods of restoration. Have a look below to see what zone your backyard is in and what green spaces you are helping protect!

Riccarton East is home to Riccarton Bush.

Riccarton Central encompasses the University of Canterbury.