DIY Rat Trap Made from a Bucket with a Lid: Step‑by‑Step Guide

Why Choose a DIY Bucket Rat Trap?

Advantages Over Traditional Traps

The bucket-and‑lid contraption offers practical benefits that conventional snap or glue traps cannot match. Its construction relies on inexpensive, readily available materials, eliminating the need for specialized hardware. The design provides a humane, reusable solution that can be emptied and redeployed without additional cost.

Cost efficiency: A standard plastic bucket and lid cost a fraction of commercial traps; bulk purchase further reduces expense.
Ease of assembly: Simple steps require only basic tools; no carpentry skills are necessary.
High capture capacity: The interior volume holds multiple rodents, reducing the frequency of checking and resetting.
Safety: No sharp springs or toxic adhesives expose users or pets to injury.
Environmental impact: Reusable components minimize waste compared with disposable traps.
Adaptability: Size and bait placement can be modified to target different rodent species or infestation levels.

These attributes collectively make the bucket‑based system a superior alternative for long‑term rodent management.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

When constructing a homemade bucket rat trap, assess the environmental impact of all materials. Choose a reusable, food‑grade plastic bucket to avoid introducing toxic substances into the surrounding area. Dispose of any damaged or contaminated components in accordance with local hazardous‑waste regulations, rather than discarding them with regular trash.

Safety considerations begin with the trap’s structural integrity. Verify that the lid hinges securely and can support the weight of a trapped animal without cracking. Use a non‑slip surface beneath the bucket to prevent accidental tipping, especially on uneven floors or outdoor decks. Wear sturdy gloves when handling bait and when releasing captured rodents to reduce the risk of bites or disease transmission.

Maintain hygiene throughout the process. Clean the bucket and lid with a dilute bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) after each use, then rinse thoroughly to eliminate residual chemicals. Store the trap in a sealed container when not in operation to protect children, pets, and non‑target wildlife.

Key practices for responsible use:

Select recyclable, non‑toxic materials.
Securely fasten all moving parts.
Provide a stable base to prevent collapse.
Apply protective gloves and eye protection during setup and removal.
Disinfect components after each capture.
Store the device away from vulnerable animals and humans.

Adhering to these guidelines minimizes ecological disturbance and ensures personal safety while employing a bucket‑based rat control solution.

Materials You'll Need

Essential Components

The Bucket

The bucket serves as the structural foundation of a homemade rodent trap. Its cylindrical shape creates a confined space that guides the animal toward the trigger mechanism, while the lid provides a simple release point that can be secured and opened with minimal effort.

When selecting a bucket, consider the following criteria:

Capacity of 5–10 liters; large enough to contain a captured rodent but small enough to fit under a countertop or against a wall.
Rigid plastic or metal construction; prevents deformation under the animal’s weight.
Smooth interior surface; reduces the chance of the rodent climbing out.
Secure, removable lid with a tight seal; ensures the trap remains closed until activation.

Preparation steps:

Clean the bucket thoroughly with soap and water to eliminate odors that could deter rodents.
Dry completely; moisture can cause rust on metal components or mold on plastic.
Drill a 1‑inch hole near the top rim on the side opposite the lid; this serves as the entrance for the baited trigger.
Install a small piece of wire mesh or a thin PVC pipe inside the hole to guide the animal toward the latch mechanism while preventing escape.

Lid modification:

Attach a hinge to the back edge of the lid using stainless‑steel screws; this allows the lid to swing open when the trigger is released.
Mount a spring‑loaded latch on the front edge; the latch holds the lid closed until the rodent’s weight pulls the trigger rod.
Test the latch for smooth operation; it must release fully with a force of approximately 0.5 kg, matching the expected weight of a typical house rat.

Placement and maintenance:

Position the bucket on a flat, stable surface; avoid uneven floors that could shift the trap.
Place bait (e.g., peanut butter or cooked meat) on a platform inside the bucket, directly beneath the trigger mechanism.
Check the trap daily; empty and clean the bucket after each capture to maintain hygiene and prevent odor buildup.
Store the bucket in a dry location when not in use; this prolongs the lifespan of the lid hinges and latch components.

The Lid

The lid serves as the trigger mechanism and containment barrier for a bucket‑based rat trap. Its rigidity allows it to support bait placement while providing a surface that can be manipulated to release the trap when a rodent applies pressure.

Select a lid that fits tightly onto the bucket, preferably metal or thick plastic to prevent deformation under weight.
Clean the lid thoroughly to remove residues that could deter rodents.
Drill a single hole near the edge, large enough for a dowel or wooden stick to pass through; this will act as the lever that tips the lid.
Insert the dowel, securing it with a screw or nail so that the lid remains level when unarmed but tilts when the rodent steps on the opposite side.
Attach a small platform or cup to the lid’s interior surface to hold bait without falling into the bucket.
Test the mechanism by applying pressure to the opposite side; the lid should pivot smoothly and release the bait platform into the bucket, trapping the animal.

Regularly inspect the lid for cracks or warping. Replace the lid if structural integrity declines, as any compromise could allow escape. Clean the lid after each capture to maintain hygiene and prevent odor buildup that might affect trap effectiveness.

Rods or Wire

Rods or wire serve as the mechanical core of a homemade bucket rat trap, forming the trigger that releases the lid when a rodent applies pressure. Their strength and flexibility determine the reliability of the mechanism and the ease of resetting the trap after each capture.

Select a material that balances rigidity with bendability. Preferred options include galvanized steel wire (12‑14 Gauge), stainless‑steel rod (1/8‑inch diameter), or heavy‑duty coat‑hangers. These choices resist rust, maintain shape under repeated stress, and are readily available at hardware stores.

Cut the chosen wire to three lengths:

6 inches for the trigger bar,
4 inches for the support brace,
2 inches for the latch pin.

Use a pipe cutter or bolt cutters for clean edges. Bend the 6‑inch piece into a “U” shape with a 1‑inch opening; this will sit across the bucket’s rim and act as the pressure point. Form a right angle at one end of the 4‑inch brace to create a lever that holds the lid open until the trigger bar is displaced.

Mount the components as follows:

Secure the support brace to the bucket’s interior wall using two 1‑inch wood screws, positioning it 2 inches below the lid edge.
Insert the trigger bar through the brace’s right‑angle leg, allowing it to rest on the lid’s underside.
Thread the latch pin through a pre‑drilled hole in the lid’s rim, aligning it with the trigger bar so that any downward pressure on the bar forces the pin out and releases the lid.

Inspect the wire after each use. Look for signs of fatigue, corrosion, or deformation. Replace any compromised element immediately to preserve trap functionality and prevent accidental release.

Properly chosen and correctly installed rods or wire ensure a consistent, repeatable response to rodent activity, making the bucket trap an efficient, low‑cost solution for pest control.

Bait

Choosing the right bait determines how quickly the trap attracts a rodent. Peanut butter, cheese, or canned fish provide strong scents that rodents cannot ignore. Fresh fruit such as apple slices works well for smaller mammals but loses potency quickly. When using processed foods, apply a thin layer to the trigger mechanism so the animal can taste the lure without slipping off.

Prepare the bait immediately before setting the trap. Spread a pea‑sized amount of peanut butter on a small piece of cardboard and place it on the bucket’s lip. If using cheese, cut a cube no larger than a thumb and secure it with a toothpick that extends into the bucket interior. For liquid or semi‑liquid lures, soak a cotton ball in the substance and attach it to the trigger lever.

Position the bait where the rodent must contact the release mechanism. Align the lure so that the animal’s head reaches the trap’s edge while attempting to reach the food. Ensure the bait does not block the bucket opening, which would prevent the trap from closing properly.

Safety considerations include wearing gloves to avoid transferring human scent to the bait and storing any leftover lure in sealed containers to prevent attracting non‑target wildlife. Replace the bait every 24 hours or when it becomes dry or contaminated.

Typical bait selection:

Peanut butter – strong odor, adheres well to surfaces.
Canned sardines – oily, highly aromatic, effective for larger rats.
Hard cheese – solid texture, easy to attach.
Apple or banana slices – fresh fruit, suitable for short‑term use.
Cotton ball soaked in vanilla extract – alternative scent for cautious rodents.

Effective baiting, combined with proper placement, maximizes capture rates while minimizing false triggers.

Other Supplies

The bucket trap requires more than the container and its lid; a handful of additional items complete the mechanism and ensure reliable operation.

Rigid wire or sturdy coat hanger – forms the trigger arm that releases the lid when a rat pulls on the bait line.
Thin, strong cord or fishing line – connects the bait to the trigger arm; its low visibility prevents early avoidance.
Bait material – peanut butter, dried fruit, or meat scraps provide sufficient attraction to draw rodents into the bucket.
Heavy-duty rubber band or spring – supplies the tension needed to snap the lid shut quickly once the trigger is activated.
Protective gloves – prevent direct contact with rodent waste and reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Sealant tape or silicone – secures the lid hinge and prevents accidental opening during transport or placement.
Disposable bag or container – holds the captured animal for humane disposal without contaminating the surrounding area.

Select supplies that can withstand repeated use; galvanized wire resists corrosion, and UV‑resistant cord maintains strength outdoors. Store all components in a dry location to preserve functionality. When assembling, verify that the trigger arm moves freely and that the tension device releases the lid with sufficient force. After capture, place the animal in the disposable container, seal it, and dispose of it according to local regulations. Regularly inspect the trap for wear, replace frayed cord, and tighten any loosened connections to maintain effectiveness.

Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions

Preparing the Bucket and Lid

Creating the Access Point

The access point determines how rodents enter the bucket, so its dimensions and placement must match the target species’ size and behavior.

Select a 5‑gallon plastic bucket with a tight‑fitting lid.
Measure the interior diameter of the lid; subtract approximately ¼ inch to allow smooth entry without excessive clearance.
Cut a circular opening in the center of the lid using a jigsaw or a sturdy utility knife. Keep the cut clean to avoid sharp edges that could injure the animal or compromise the trap’s durability.
Attach a short PVC pipe (½‑inch diameter, 4‑inch length) to the underside of the lid, aligning it with the opening. Secure the pipe with waterproof silicone sealant, ensuring an airtight fit.
Insert a thin wooden dowel or a metal rod through the pipe to act as a one‑way gate: position the rod so it tilts inward when the rat pushes against it, then snaps back to block re‑entry.
Test the mechanism by applying gentle pressure to the dowel; it should yield easily in one direction and resist movement in the opposite direction.

After assembly, verify that the access point remains stable when the bucket is inverted. A properly sized and sealed entry ensures the trap functions reliably while minimizing the risk of escape.

Constructing the Trigger Mechanism

Attaching the Rod/Wire

Securely attaching the rod or wire is the critical link that converts a simple bucket into an effective rat trap. Begin by selecting a sturdy metal rod, preferably 1 inch in diameter, or a heavy‑gauge steel wire capable of bearing the weight of a trapped rodent. Cut the rod to a length that allows the bait platform to hang just above the bucket’s rim while leaving enough excess to fasten it to the lid.

Drill two opposing holes through the lid, spaced 4–5 inches apart, using a ¼‑inch drill bit. The holes must be aligned with the intended position of the rod.
Insert the rod ends through the holes, ensuring the central section remains horizontal and the bait platform can rest on the bucket’s edge.
Place a lock nut or a metal washer and nut on each protruding end, then tighten with a wrench until the rod is immobile. If using wire, thread each end through the lid holes, form a loop, and secure with a tight twist or a cable clamp.
Verify that the rod (or wire) does not wobble when pressure is applied to the bait platform. Adjust the tension by loosening and retightening the nuts or clamps as needed.
Attach the bait platform—typically a small wooden board or a sturdy piece of cardboard—to the rod using a U‑bolt or zip tie. The platform should sit just above the bucket’s rim, allowing a rat to step onto it and trigger the release mechanism.

Check the assembly before deployment: pull gently on the bait platform to confirm smooth movement, and ensure the rod remains firmly anchored to the lid. Proper attachment prevents accidental collapse and maximizes the trap’s reliability.

Securing the Bait Holder

Securing the bait holder is critical for maintaining trap effectiveness and preventing premature loss of attractant. A stable holder ensures the bait remains accessible to the rodent while resisting displacement by wind, vibrations, or the animal’s attempts to remove it.

Position a small, sturdy platform (e.g., a piece of plywood or thick cardboard) inside the bucket, a few centimeters above the base. The platform should be centered to align with the entry opening.
Attach the platform to the bucket wall using stainless‑steel screws or zip ties. Screws provide a permanent bond; zip ties allow quick adjustment.
Drill two ¼‑inch holes through the platform near its edges. Insert a short metal rod or sturdy wooden dowel through each hole, extending outward to act as a latch.
Secure the latch ends to the bucket’s inner rim with small bolts or heavy‑duty wire. Tighten until the platform cannot shift under moderate pressure.
Place the bait (peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent lure) on a small, disposable dish that fits on the platform. The dish should sit flush to avoid wobbling.

A correctly fastened bait holder prevents the lure from spilling, reduces the chance of trap tampering, and facilitates consistent capture rates. Regularly inspect the screws or zip ties for corrosion and tighten any loosened components to preserve structural integrity.

Final Assembly and Testing

The final stage combines structural completion and functional verification of the bucket‑based rodent catcher.

Secure the lid to the bucket rim using the pre‑drilled holes. Insert the bolt or screw through each hole, tighten with a wrench until the lid is immobile but still able to pivot slightly under pressure. Attach the trigger arm to the lid’s inner side with the hinge pin, ensuring the arm moves freely. Connect the spring‑loaded release mechanism to the trigger, aligning the notch with the bait platform. Verify that the bait holder sits flush with the inner wall and that the release lever returns to its resting position when the lid is lifted.

Verify all fasteners are tight; loose connections cause premature failure.
Test the trigger by applying gentle pressure to the bait platform; the lid should snap shut within one second.
Observe the latch’s reset action; it must hold the lid closed until manually released.
Check for gaps around the lid edge; seal with silicone if necessary to prevent escape.

Place the assembled trap in the target area, position the bait, and monitor for activity. Record the first closure event, noting the time elapsed from bait placement to activation. After a successful capture, release the mechanism, inspect the trap for wear, and replace any compromised components before the next deployment. Continuous observation confirms reliability and informs any adjustments required for optimal performance.

Setting Up Your Trap

Choosing the Right Location

The trap must be positioned where rats regularly travel, yet out of reach for children and pets. Place the bucket near walls, behind appliances, or in the corners of basements and crawl spaces, because rodents prefer concealed routes along solid surfaces.

Key considerations for site selection:

Proximity to visible gnaw marks, droppings, or burrow entrances.
Distance of at least three feet from food preparation areas to prevent contamination.
Flat, stable ground that supports the bucket without wobbling.
Adequate drainage; avoid locations prone to standing water that could flood the trap.
Easy access for inspection and disposal; choose a spot that can be reached without moving heavy furniture.

Avoid areas with high traffic from humans, such as entryways or living rooms, because frequent disturbance reduces trap effectiveness. Ensure the chosen location complies with local health and safety regulations, especially in rental properties or commercial settings.

How to Bait the Trap Effectively

Choose bait that matches the target’s diet. Grain, dried fruit, or peanut butter attract most rodents; for indoor settings, oily fish or meat scraps work best. Ensure the bait is fresh and aromatic; stale material loses potency quickly.

Place a small amount of bait on a disposable platform that can be removed without disturbing the trap. A piece of cardboard or a thin plastic disc works well. Position the platform near the bucket’s entry point, allowing the rat to step onto it before the lid closes.

Use a two‑stage baiting method:

Initial lure – scatter a thin line of loose bait around the trap’s opening to draw the rat toward the entrance.
Trigger bait – deposit a concentrated lump of the same material on the removable platform inside the bucket; the rat must fully engage the platform to reach it, activating the mechanism.

Avoid over‑baiting; excessive quantity can allow the animal to feed without triggering the trap. A pea‑sized portion on the platform is sufficient.

Enhance scent by lightly moistening the bait with water or a few drops of vegetable oil. This increases volatility without creating a mess that could spill out of the bucket.

Rotate bait types every few days to prevent habituation. Keep a record of which attractant yields the highest capture rate and adjust the selection accordingly.

Safety Precautions During Placement

When installing a homemade bucket rat trap, observe the following safety measures.

Wear thick‑walled gloves to protect hands from the bucket’s sharp edges and from the bait’s potential contaminants.
Ensure the lid is securely fastened; a loose cover can shift, causing the trap to topple or release the animal suddenly.
Position the trap on a stable, flat surface free of clutter; avoid uneven floors, stairs, or high‑traffic walkways.
Keep the trap away from children, pets, and non‑target wildlife; use barriers or signage if necessary.
Verify that the bucket material is durable and free of cracks; a compromised container may rupture under the animal’s weight.
After placement, inspect the surrounding area for hazards such as exposed wires or slippery liquids that could cause slips or falls.

Before setting the trap, confirm that local regulations permit its use and that the chosen location complies with any relevant health or building codes. Regularly monitor the trap to detect malfunctions early and to address captured rodents promptly, minimizing health risks.

Maintenance and Best Practices

Regular Trap Checks

Regular inspection of the bucket trap is essential for maintaining effectiveness and preventing overflow. Perform checks at intervals that match rodent activity patterns, typically every 12 hours during high‑risk periods and once daily when activity subsides.

Verify the lid remains securely fastened; a loose lid allows escape and reduces capture rate.
Examine the interior for dead or trapped rats; remove carcasses promptly to avoid odor and disease spread.
Assess the bait condition; replace spoiled or depleted bait to sustain attraction.
Inspect the bucket for water accumulation; drain excess moisture to keep the trap dry and safe.
Check the trigger mechanism (e.g., string or lever) for wear or deformation; adjust or replace as needed.

Document each inspection with date, time, and observations. Record any failures and corrective actions to identify trends and improve trap placement. Consistent monitoring ensures the device remains functional, humane, and compliant with local pest‑control regulations.

Disposal of Rodents

When a bucket trap captures a rodent, the next critical operation is safe and sanitary removal of the animal. Mishandling can spread disease, attract other pests, and compromise the effectiveness of the trap.

After the trap is triggered, place a sturdy pair of disposable gloves over the lid, then invert the bucket to transfer the rodent onto a prepared surface. Keep the lid closed until the animal is fully removed to prevent escape.

Recommended disposal methods:

Freezing – Place the rodent in a sealed plastic bag, store it in a freezer for at least 24 hours, then dispose of the bag in a trash receptacle. Freezing immobilizes pathogens and prevents odor buildup.
Sealing and trashing – After wearing gloves, put the animal in a double‑layered trash bag, tie securely, and discard in a municipal waste container designated for animal carcasses.
Burial – Dig a hole at least 12 inches deep, place the sealed bag inside, cover with soil, and mark the site for future reference. Ensure local regulations permit burial.
Professional removal – Contact licensed pest‑control services for large‑scale or recurring infestations; they can handle carcasses according to health‑code standards.

Regardless of the chosen method, wash hands thoroughly with soap and disinfect any tools or surfaces that contacted the trap. Clean the bucket with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water), rinse, and allow to dry before reuse. Maintaining strict hygiene eliminates residual scent that could deter future catches and protects occupants from rodent‑borne hazards.

Cleaning and Reusing Your Trap

After a capture, empty the bucket carefully. Hold the lid securely, tilt the container, and let any debris fall into a disposable bag. Avoid spilling contents onto surfaces; use a tarp or newspaper underneath.

Remove the dead rodent with thick gloves. Place it in a sealed plastic bag, then discard according to local regulations.
Rinse the bucket with warm water to eliminate residue. Use a stiff brush to scrub the interior, paying special attention to the rim where bait may cling.
Apply a disinfectant solution (e.g., diluted bleach 1:10) to the entire interior surface. Let it sit for at least five minutes to ensure microbial kill.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove chemical traces. Inspect for any lingering odor or organic matter.
Dry the bucket completely. Air‑dry for 15–20 minutes or wipe with a clean microfiber cloth. Ensure the lid’s hinge and seal are also dry to prevent rust.

Once dry, reassemble the trap. Check that the bait platform is clean and free of previous residue; replace it if damaged. Store the bucket in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight, to preserve the plastic’s integrity. Regular inspection—before each deployment—will reveal wear on the lid seal or structural cracks, allowing timely replacement and maintaining trap effectiveness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When a bucket‑based rodent trap fails to catch or retain mice, identify the specific malfunction before adjusting the design.

Typical problems and corrective actions:

Insufficient bait attraction – Replace stale bait with fresh, high‑protein items (peanut butter, cooked meat). Secure bait under the lid to prevent removal before entry.
Lid does not close properly – Check hinges for misalignment; tighten screws or replace warped hinges. Add a rubber gasket to create a tighter seal.
Bucket tipping over – Position the trap on a stable, flat surface. Use a non‑slip mat or attach brackets to the floor.
Rodents escape through gaps – Inspect the rim where the lid meets the bucket. Fill any openings with silicone sealant or weatherstripping.
Trigger mechanism jammed – Ensure the release lever moves freely; lubricate pivots with a light oil. Remove debris that may block motion.
Water accumulation inside – Drill a small drainage hole near the base, covered with a mesh screen to keep insects out while allowing excess moisture to escape.

If multiple issues occur simultaneously, revert to the original assembly diagram, verify each component’s integrity, and rebuild step by step. Consistent performance depends on maintaining bait freshness, secure closures, and a stable platform.

Enhancements and Variations

Adding Water for Drowning Traps

Adding water transforms a simple bucket trap into a drowning mechanism that quickly incapacitates rodents. The bucket should be positioned so the lid rests on the rim, forming a ramp that leads the animal to the interior. When the rat steps onto the lid, its weight tilts the lid, causing the animal to fall into the water-filled chamber below.

Select a bucket with a capacity of 5–10 liters; larger volumes increase drowning speed but require more water.
Fill the bucket with 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) of clean water. The depth must be sufficient to submerge the rat’s torso without allowing it to stand.
Place a non‑slip material (e.g., rubber mat) on the lid to ensure the rat’s paws grip the surface before the tilt occurs.
Position the trap near known rodent pathways; the water level should remain constant, so check for evaporation daily and top up as needed.
After each capture, empty the water, clean the bucket with a mild disinfectant, and refill with fresh water before resetting the trap.

Maintaining water temperature around ambient room conditions prevents freezing in colder environments and avoids overheating in hot climates, which could cause premature death before drowning. Regular inspection guarantees the trap remains functional and humane.

Alternative Baiting Strategies

When a bucket‑and‑lid trap is deployed, bait selection determines capture efficiency. Traditional peanut butter or cheese works for many rodents, but alternative attractants can improve results in specific environments or when rats become bait‑averse.

Protein‑rich pet food – canned or dry kibble emits strong scent, appealing to nocturnal foragers. Place a small portion on a piece of cardboard to prevent direct contact with the trap’s interior.
Fruit‑based lures – ripe banana, apple slices, or dried apricots release sugars that attract rats seeking quick energy. Secure the fruit with a toothpick to keep it from falling into the bucket.
Grain mixes – a blend of wheat, corn, and oats provides texture and familiarity. Lightly moisten the mixture to enhance odor without creating a mess.
Commercial rodent attractants – pheromone‑based gels or liquid baits are formulated to trigger feeding behavior. Apply a thin layer on a disposable disc to avoid contaminating the trap surface.
Oil‑infused bait – a few drops of vegetable or peanut oil on a piece of bread increase palatability and help mask competing odors in cluttered spaces.
Scented cotton balls – soak cotton in a solution of vanilla extract or almond essence, then attach to the trap’s interior. The volatile compounds draw rats from a distance, encouraging exploration.

Rotate bait types every 2–3 days to prevent habituation. Ensure each lure is sized to fit comfortably on the trap’s trigger platform without obstructing the lid’s closure mechanism. Proper placement and regular bait renewal maximize capture rates while maintaining the simplicity of the bucket design.

Making the Trap More Discreet

A discreet rat trap blends into its surroundings, reducing curiosity from both pets and visitors while maintaining effectiveness.

To conceal a bucket‑based trap, follow these practical steps:

Paint the exterior with a neutral color that matches nearby walls, cabinets, or flooring. Use matte finishes to avoid glare.
Wrap the bucket in a removable fabric sleeve; choose a material that mimics curtains, towels, or upholstery found in the area.
Position the trap behind furniture, under a sink, or inside a cupboard door that can remain slightly ajar. Ensure the lid still opens easily for checking.
Add a thin layer of shredded paper, straw, or dry leaves over the opening; this masks the entrance without obstructing the bait.
Attach a small, inconspicuous sign or label to indicate “maintenance” only if required for household staff; otherwise, leave the trap unmarked.

Regularly inspect the camouflage for wear and replace or adjust as needed to preserve the trap’s hidden profile.