We began designing harp traps when we needed a number of them for our summer projects but were unsatisfied with the design, availability, and price of the few other commercial offerings. Over the seasons, we have developed several sizes of aluminum and stainless steel traps for our own use. Each new trap design is further refined to improve and streamline the use of the traps, reducing time and frustration for field biologists.

Two sizes have proven to be most useful over the years. A medium 3' (0.9m) "Cave Catcher" model (3' w X 2'-3.5' h. maximum catch area: 10.5 square feet (0.98 square meters) weight: 15 lbs.) is useful at smaller cave, mine, and structure entrances. A large 6' (1.8m) "Forest Strainer" model (6' X 12' h. maximum catch area: 72 square feet, weight: 33 lbs. is more appropriate for large entrances, small diameter pit entrances, forest trails, and narrow stream corridors.

Our newest design, the Generation 6, or G6 Harp Trap, was unveiled at the 2010 North American Symposium on Bat Research in Denver, Colorado.

G6 Improvements From Previous Generation

6' wide x up to 12' tall capture area; the largest harp trap available (the end user strings the harp to their preferred size). Weight: 49 lbs. with optional Leg Kit and Roost Baffle Bar.

Completely redesigned unbreakable tension system.

Larger diameter unbreakable legs, each independently movable to nearly any angle.

Trap can be set on a single stake without legs to save space and weight.

With the Leg Kit accessory, each column forms a tripod creating the most stable trap ever.

Legs, line bars, and catch bag can be placed anywhere on the columns and are independent from each other enabling the user to level the trap under any conditions.

With the max 12' high capture area rigged, the top of the trap is 12' above the ground. Adding the optional Leg Kit and raising all legs to maximum extension, the top of the trap frame can be 17.5' above the ground, higher than many double-high mist net systems.

A 6'x12' harp trap is serious gear: fully expanded it will contain approximately 1,350 feet of line.

3' wide trap head available for narrow situations.

G6 Harp Traps Available Now!