The Kania Trap is another trap designed for the wider range of quarry and the more relaxed rules of the Canadian and American markets. It is very powerful trap which ensures a quick, clean kill but is also quite capable of breaking your hand and so should be handled with care.
There are two models available, the 2000 and the 2500 both approved under the English Spring Traps Approval Order for use on grey squirrels, mink, weasels, rats, mice and other small ground vermin. In the UK it is most commonly used to control grey squirrels and to a lesser extent mink. It has the advantage of being easily mounted on trees, posts or walls so that it is out or reach from the ground – safe from accidents and free from interference.
The 2500 model is nothing more than the spring loaded killing bar, trigger mechanism and supporting framework. This provides a clear run through trap but must be built into an enclosed ‘cubby’ or tunnel to comply with UK law. The requirement for this kind of custom designed mounting is fairly rare and this book does not offer any designs for housing the 2500. In most cases a 2000 model will be quite suitable and any situation special enough to need the 2500 model would probably also have specific requirements for the housing.
The 2000 model is fitted with a box which covers the spring mechanism, protects the rear of the trap and serves as a bait holder. Under the Spring Trap Approval Order a suitable tunnel is also required on the entrance of the trap in order to minimise the chances of harming non-target species, particularly woodpeckers, when the trap is used on tree trunks.
Fourteenacre no longer sell the Kania traps and they appear to be impossible to get hold of anymore.
