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How to Construct Ancient Traps

It can be difficult to know exactly what types of traps were employed by ancient peoples, as they are often made of perishable materials and destroyed once the trap itself is sprung. It is possible, however, to get some idea by the types of traps that were used various Native American groups during modern recorded history. One of the most simple traps that likely existed for ancient people is the deadfall trap. This trap utilizes tension, bait and a large, heavy object for capturing prey.

Things You'll Need

3 medium sized sticks
Knife
Large rock

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a small notch in a long stick about one-third of the way in from one end. One side of the notch should be fairly deep and flat; the bait stick will have to rest in it.
- 2
  Place the upright stick firmly in the ground, keeping the notch about 4 to 6 inches off the ground.
- 3
  Cut a notch at the end of the bait stick an inch or two from one end. Sharpen the end that will have the bait. Cut a deep notch in the other end of the stick. Pierce the bait with the sharpened end of the stick.
- 4
  Balance the bait stick on the notch in the upright stick, by keeping it perpendicular to the upright stick. The notch near two inches from the end of the baited stick should be lined up with the notch in the upright stick.
- 5
  Balance the release stick on top of the upright stick. Keep one end resting in the notch of the bait stick. The sticks should now resemble a "4."
- 6
  Lift up the rock (you may use a heavy log as well) so that one end is resting on top of the release stick, with the majority of the rock over the bait stick. When the prey goes after the bait, it will trigger the release stick, making the rock land directly on the prey. The tension from the sticks should hold the rock in place, but you will need some practice to get the balance right, ensuring the rock does not fall unless the bait is taken.

Animals & Science