Vertical gate
This gate is hinged at the top and closes under its own weight. The closing door may be noisy enough to frighten pigs outside the trap. Reduce noise by wiring rubber padding to the gate frame.
Side-hinged gate
This gate requires a closing mechanism in the form of a spring, elastic strap, or pulley and counterweight. It has the advantage (when adjusted correctly) of opening and closing easily and quietly, and for these reasons is perhaps the best designed pig gate.
The gate can be constructed out of an old bed frame or similar, and can be incorporated into a silo or panel trap. The frame may need padding to reduce noise. Trip wires can be used to prevent gates shutting until one or more pigs are well inside the trap.
Funnel gate
This gate uses the spring tension of the weldmesh itself to provide its closing action. The free ends of the weldmesh panels are bent inward under tension forming either a figure ‘6’ or heart shape. Pigs enter by pushing between the panels, which spring shut behind them.
If there is too much tension in the panels pigs may be reluctant to enter. The tension should be just sufficient to close or nearly close the funnel. Adjust the tension by bending the weldmesh. The tynes on the end of the gate should be turned inwards to prevent pigs from backing out.
Precautions
Check traps at least daily to minimise the time that trapped pigs are held. Pigs are vulnerable to hot, dry conditions.
If the trap site is exposed, provide shade. Trapped pigs will be stressed and can be aggressive and dangerous. They should be killed humanely with a shot to the head.
Occasionally kangaroos or domestic livestock may enter traps. Leave traps open if it is impossible to check them regularly.
Further information
For further information on feral pigs and pig control, search our website, or contact Pest and Disease Information Service.