I avoid the underside of bushes to keep the organic material to a minimum.
As the last trap closed for the season, there was relief in its successful firing. The weather had cycled through freeze-thaw conditions, prompting reflection on the season’s effectiveness. Every trap had functioned as intended.
While many traps may close from paw pressure, they can fail to fire if frozen down. This is where waxed dirt—and occasionally calcium chloride—becomes essential.
Both materials are utilized for coyote sets, depending on the conditions. The primary distinction is that waxed dirt must be prepared, while calcium chloride is readily available.
Thus, the time has come to create more waxed dirt.
Origins of Waxed Dirt in Trapping
The precise moment when waxed dirt gained popularity is unclear, but the first experience involved purchasing some late in the season, which worked effectively. In those days, flake wax was also available for DIY production, a method still employed by many.
Over the years, various techniques for making waxed dirt have been explored.
Sun Method: The Traditional Approach
Sifting dirt through a metal screen to prepare waxed dirt for trapping.
The traditional method involved spreading sifted dirt on a 4×8 piece of plywood set on sawhorses, known as the sun method.
Choosing the right dirt is crucial:
- No organic material
- Fine particles that pass through a sifter
- Slightly sandy texture is acceptable, but avoid pure sand
Typically, dirt is sourced from a gravel pit and spread 1–2 inches thick across the plywood. Wax is then sprinkled over the dirt and covered with a black tarp. Full sun and heat are vital for this method.
After several hours, the wax melts into the dirt. Mixing, spreading, and adding more wax is repeated until the desired ratio is achieved.
The downside is the requirement for hot, sunny weather and the time investment involved.
Alternative Methods: Less Efficient but Viable
Other methods have been tested, including using a wood stove, oven, and campfire. While they are functional, they are slow and require constant monitoring. Care must be taken to avoid burning the material or achieving uneven wax coverage.
A large roaster oven has been tried, which is an improvement but still labor-intensive for large batches.
The Cement Mixer Method: A Game Changer
Minimizing contact with dirt and wearing gloves helps keep it scent-free.
The most effective method discovered was demonstrated at a trapping convention: using a cement mixer.
This approach is straightforward and efficient:
- Utilize a small mixer (5–6 gallons per batch)
- Heat the mixer with a propane heater or weed burner
- Partially cover the drum to retain heat
A new mixer is recommended to avoid contamination from residual concrete.
Steps to Create Waxed Dirt in a Mixer
The setup includes a metal pail on the ground serving as a lid for the mixer, essential for heat retention.
Begin by loading dry dirt into the mixer and allowing it to warm up.
Once heated, gradually add wax.
A good starting point is approximately ¾ cup of wax per gallon of dirt, although closer to one full cup may be necessary depending on conditions.
Keep the mixer in motion and add wax in stages. The combination of heat and movement ensures even distribution.
Every 15–20 minutes, check and add more wax as needed until the dirt is fully coated and free of clumps. The entire process typically takes about an hour per batch.
If the dirt is damp at the start, allow it to spin and dry before introducing wax.
Storage and Handling of Waxed Dirt
Upon completion:
- Transfer the dirt to clean 5-gallon buckets
- Seal with tight lids
- Avoid contamination from strong odors
Only clean buckets should be used for waxed dirt, as contamination is a significant concern. When setting traps, smaller containers are recommended for transport.
The Importance of Waxed Dirt in Trapping
“You used waxed dirt, didn’t you?” “Yes, that’s why it wasn’t frozen shut.”
Freeze-thaw conditions can severely impact foothold traps. Many trappers have experienced tracks on the pan without a fired trap due to frozen jaws.
Waxed dirt has been addressing this issue for decades, maintaining functionality in most conditions.
While some situations may still challenge it, waxed dirt generally keeps sets operational, which is the ultimate goal.
Conclusion
Numerous methods exist for creating waxed dirt. Some are quicker, some are more economical, and others simply perform better.
For many, the cement mixer method stands out as the most effective.
For those trapping in freezing conditions, the effort is worthwhile, as a successful trap firing is the desired outcome.
