A portable trap

Abstract

A portable animal trap comprising: an enclosure including a door that is movable between an open position that permits passage of a target animal into the enclosure and a closed position that restricts passage of the animal out of the enclosure, the enclosure is adapted to receive a lure or bait to attract a target animal; a monitoring system configured to detect a target animal entering the trap; a control system to receive a signal from the monitoring system and trigger a notification system in response to the signal from the monitoring system; and a spring-loaded release mechanism that is configured to be remotely actuated to move the door from the open position to the closed position to trap the target animal. 20 26 22 32 64 27 A ug 2 02 6 A B S T R A C T 2 0 2 6 2 2 3 2 6 4 2 7 2 0 2 6 A u g 3 3

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application is a divisional application of Australian Application No. 2022235575, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. FIELD OF INVENTION The present invention relates to a portable trap for trapping an animal. Suitably, the trap is a remotely controlled trap for trapping an animal. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION One problem land owners face is the presence of feral animals some of which may destroy crops or attack farm animals. One such animal is the feral pig also known as Sus Scrofa. They are omnivorous animals which eat a variety of food including plants and small animals. They compete with native animals for food and have been known to attack ground nesting birds. In addition, feral pigs are known to cause degradation to the native vegetation which can have potentially damaging effects on vulnerable and endangered flora and fauna species. The above is compounded by the fact that feral pigs are a known vector for diseases that can be transmitted to both humans and native species. In 2011, it was reported by the Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities that up to 23.5 million feral pigs are spread across about half of the continent, from western Victoria, through New South Wales into Queensland, and across northern Australia. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 Feral pigs are estimated to cause losses of 20,000 tonnes of sugarcane each year and in some areas, they kill and eat up to 40% of newborn lambs. They are also known to have a reproduction rate similar to rabbits which can increase in population by up to 86% per year. As such, it is desirable to prevent feral pigs, and any other pest animal (including but not limited to goats, cats and foxes), from entering farmland. Electric fences have been used to keep these animals from entering farmland. Traps have also been developed to catch and relocate these animals. However, these traps suffer from several problems. One problem is that the traps are typically installed as permanent structures at the trapping location. Such fixed structures are undesirable because they inevitably cause environmental damage to the trapping location which may also be culturally valuable to indigenous communities. In addition, permanent traps are less effective in capturing nomadic animals, which typically roam vast distances, due to their inability to be relocated based on the travel or migratory pattern of the animal. Another problem with these traps is that it is challenging to trap the target animal, i.e. feral pigs, without trapping nontarget animals such as native animals. It is desirable to provide a trap that can safely capture a target animal and minimize environmental impact. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 The present invention provides a portable animal trap comprising: an enclosure including a door that is movable between an open position that permits passage of a target animal into the enclosure and a closed position that restricts passage of the target animal out of the enclosure, the enclosure is adapted to receive a lure or bait to attract a target animal; a monitoring system configured to detect a target animal entering the trap; a control system to receive a signal from the monitoring system and trigger a notification system in response to the signal from the monitoring system; and a spring-loaded release mechanism that is configured to be remotely actuated to move the door from the open position to the closed position to trap the target animal. Whilst the present invention is primarily directed towards trapping feral pigs, a skilled person can appreciate that the invention can be used to trap any suitably sized animal. The invention may also be used to protect land held for conservation and public use from damage by animals. The invention may also be used to capture non-feral animals for non-destructive purposes such as scientific observation, or relocation. In the context of this application, the term “portable” means that the animal trap is not permanently fixed in one location, and can be demounted from one location and transported to and installed at a different location. Suitably, the animal trap can be manually transported between locations. It can be appreciated that a portable animal trap may include a removable anchor that allows the trap to be temporarily fixed to the ground when erected. Suitably, the anchor is 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 manually removable without the use of machinery. In one example, the anchor may have a hooked end for securing the trap to the ground. The hooked end may also be used for suspending equipment (such as a control box or bait bucket) from the trap. The portable trap may be constructed or configured to be manually carried to the trapping location rather than by vehicle. For example, the trap may have hand holds or handles or may be constructed from lightweight material such as aluminium or plastic. This minimizes environmental damage. An advantage of the remote actuated trap is that it minimizes human scent and sound at the trapping location which may otherwise induce flight behavior in the target animal. The target animal may be a pig. Suitably, the target animal is a feral pig. However, it is also envisaged that the target animal may be any other feral animal for example a feral cat, fox or goat. The trap may include a lure or bait to attract a target animal. The lure or bait may comprise grain, meat or other attractants. The enclosure may comprise a cage having one or more doors being transitionable between an open position and a closed position. Suitably, the door is a drop door. The enclosure may comprise a locking mechanism that restricts upward movement (i.e. lifting) of the door once in the closed position. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 The locking mechanism may comprise a catch that is pivotably mounted to the enclosure. Suitably, the catch is pivotably mounted to the cage of the enclosure. More suitably, the catch is pivotably mounted to a door frame of the cage. The catch may be pivotable between a displaced position and an equilibrium position in which a portion of the catch obstructs movement of the door when in the equilibrium position. The catch may be configured to restrict upward movement of the door between the closed position and the open position. For example, when the door moves downwards into the closed position, it pushes the catch away from the path of travel of the door. In contrast, when the door is moved upwards into the open position, the door snags the catch and pushes it into the path of travel of the door. The catch may have a center of gravity that allows a portion of the catch to obstruct the door when in the equilibrium position. For example: the catch may be asymmetrically shaped and homogenously weighted; the catch may be symmetrically shaped and weighted asymmetrically; the catch may be asymmetrically shaped and weighted asymmetrically; or the catch can be symmetrically shaped and homogenously weighted. The catch may comprise a triangular shaped body. However, it is also envisaged that the catch may have any suitable shape that provides the above benefits. The catch may be a pawl. The enclosure may have wall panels that define an enclosed area. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 The wall panels may be fence panels comprising a plurality of upright posts intersecting with and connected to a plurality of transverse rails. The size of the walls panels may be adjusted to accommodate the size / number of animals that are intended to be trapped. The enclosure may or may not have a covered top. A covered top may be applied to the enclosure to hinder or prevent a target animal having the ability to climb from escaping the enclosure. The enclosure may or may not have a floor, also known as a bottom stop. A bottom stop can be used to hinder or prevent target animals, which have the ability to dig or tunnel into the ground, from escaping the enclosure. As can be appreciated, this may also limit the amount of damage caused by the target animal to the environment. The enclosure may comprise more than one door. Multiple doors may be required to accommodate animal behavior and improve the efficacy of trapping the target animal, for example by providing multiple entry pathways into the enclosure. The remotely actuated spring-loaded release mechanism may transition from an armed state to a triggered state to move the door from the open position to the closed position. The trap may be configured to be armed by a single person. In contrast, conventional traps typically require at least two 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 people to enter the trap to arm the release mechanism. This improves the safety of the trap installation process. To facilitate the arming of the trap by a single person, the trap may include one or more of these features: 1. The remotely actuated spring-loaded release mechanism may be located adjacent or in close proximity to the door. In contrast, if the release mechanism is located distal to the door, for example on an opposing side to the door, a second person would be required to arm the trap while a first person sets the door. 2. At least one component of the trap, particularly the door, may be constructed from lightweight material such as aluminium or plastic. Suitably, at least one component is constructed using a material having a density not exceeding 5,000kg / m3, typically, not exceeding 4,000kg / m3, more typically not exceeding 3,000kg / m3. 3. The trap may include handles to enhance grip and handling. The spring-loaded release mechanism may be located on the enclosure. Suitably, the spring-loaded release mechanism extends between the door and cage of the enclosure. The spring-loaded release mechanism may be triggered by a relay. Suitably the relay is a 12V relay. However, it is envisaged that the relay may be any other suitable voltage. The spring-loaded release mechanism may be actuated by rotational movement of a first component of the spring-loaded release mechanism to induce linear movement of the same or a second component of the spring-loaded release mechanism. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 Suitably, the rotational movement of the first component releases the spring from tension to induce linear movement of the same or a second component to move the trap door from the open to the closed position. The spring-loaded release mechanism may comprise a spring loaded locking rod and a rest on which the locking rod can sit. The spring loaded locking rod may be slidable between a locked and an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the locking rod is seated on the rest to retain the door in the open position. In the locked position, the locking rod is withdrawn from the rest which causes the door to move into the closed position. Suitably, the spring is compressed when the trap door is in the open position and released from tension when the enclosure is in the closed position. When the release mechanism is actuated, the locking rod may be withdrawn from the rest. The spring-loaded release mechanism facilitates quick release of the trap door. More suitably, the mechanism is actuated by an electronic control system. The locking rod may have a tapered end. Suitably, the locking rod has an asymmetrical tapered end. Having a tapered end may reduce the force required to withdraw the locking rod from the rest compared to a locking rod having a uniform end. The spring-loaded release mechanism may be actuated by rotating the locking rod to induce a linear movement of the locking rod to withdraw from the rest. Suitably, the locking rod includes a lever that is rotatable to release the spring from tension and induce the linear movement of the locking 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 rod. This reduces the amount of force required to move the trap door from the open to closed position compared to a mechanism that requires linear movement of the locking rod to move the trap door from the open to the closed position. The rest may be a projection extending from the frame of the enclosure. The monitoring system may include a motion sensor to detect the presence of a target animal. The motion sensor may be continuously activated. The monitoring system may include a camera for monitoring the trap. The camera may have a sleep mode which can be woken by a signal from the motion sensor or control system. The monitoring system may include an infrared sensor, suitably a passive infrared sensor. The infrared sensor may be used to detect heat emitted or motion of the target animal. The infrared sensor may communicate with the camera to activate it or with the control system to activate the notification system. The infrared sensor may communicate with the control system to active a horn to emit a sound or a spray system to discharge a scent or smell to deter / repel a non-target animal. The monitoring system may include a display device located remotely from the trap. The monitoring system may be configured to make the camera and display device slave to the motion sensor. For example, the display device may be activated by a signal from the motion sensor. Suitably, the control system activates the display 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 device when it receives a signal received from the motion sensor. The motion sensor may be configured to transmit a signal to the control system upon detecting movement around the trap. Suitably, the camera is configured to communicate with the motion sensor such that the notification system is only triggered when a target animal having a minimum size enters the trap. Suitably, the minimum size of the target animal is the typical size of a mouse. The motion sensor may be configured to trigger the notification system when movement is detected around the trap. This allows an operator to detect movement around the trap without having to constantly monitor the display device. The notification system may trigger one or more of an alarm, a message to the operator’s phone or computer. The notification system may be activated by the motion sensor. The notification system and / or the camera may be activated via a direct signal from the motion sensor or via a signal from a control system. The control system may be configured to actuate the springloaded mechanism in response to a signal from a remote-control device. Suitably, the control system is configured to receive a release signal from a remote-control device, and transmit a signal to the spring-loaded release mechanism in response to the release signal to actuate the release mechanism. The remote-control device may transmit or receive signals wirelessly, for example via a mobile network, the internet or 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 a satellite network. It is also envisaged that the remotecontrol device may be used with any other remote communication system / method, for example WI-FI, Ethernet, Bluetooth®, infrared, etc. The remote-control device may be a mobile phone or a satellite phone. The remote-control device may be operable on a 3G, 4G or 5G mobile network. However, it may be appreciated that the remote-control device may be forward compatible and operable on any future generation of mobile network. Having the spring-loaded mechanism actuated by a remote control allows an operator of the trap to ensure that the target animal is safely in the trap before triggering the mechanism to trap the target animal. This provides a humane way of trapping the target animal. It also ensures that the correct target animal is trapped. In contrast, having the spring-loaded mechanism automatically triggered increases the likelihood of the target animal being injured, for example, when the target animal has not completely entered the trap. In addition, the remote-control aspect of the invention enables the operator to trigger the release of the trap door when more than one target animals have entered the enclosure. Often animals travel in groups and multiple / many target animals can be trapped simultaneously by releasing the trap door at the right time. This improves the efficiency of the trap. In addition, this may reduce the number of missed target animals that may learn to avoid the trap, i.e. become trap shy, after they have experienced a near miss and become more wary of traps in the future. The control system may be located away from the door of the enclosure. This allows the entrance of the trap to mimic the 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 surrounding area more closely by reducing the visual impact of unnatural objects at the entrance. This increases the likelihood that an animal would enter the trap. The control system may also be used to transmit a sound or smell that can be used to attract the target animal or deter / repel a non-target animal. The control system may be configured to activate the camera. Suitably, the control system activates the camera when it receives a signal from a motion sensor. The control system may be configured to actuate the release mechanism. Suitably, the control system actuates the release mechanism following receipt of a signal from the motion sensor. Suitably, the signal from the motion sensor may issue an alert via a notification system to an operator who can then remotely actuate the release mechanism. Alternatively, the signal from the motion sensor may automatically actuate the release mechanism. The control system may utilize image recognition technology so that the system only alerts the operator when the target animal has approached or entered the trap. Image recognition technology reduces the need for an operator to constantly monitor the trap for target and non-target animals. The control system may be configured to differentiate between a target animal and a non-target animal and activate the notification system only when a target animal is detected. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 The control system may include an artificial intelligence (AI) system that only activates the notification system when a target animal is detected. This assists the operator by reducing unwanted notifications, and consequently the operator’s monitoring time (especially during the night when operators typically sleep). The control system may comprise a rechargeable battery to power the various satellite systems such as the notification system, the spring-actuated release mechanism, and the camera. The rechargeable battery may be connected to a solar panel. The rechargeable battery may be connected to the solar panel via a solar controller. The control system may include a relay to receive a signal from a remote-control device such as a mobile phone. Suitably, the relay is a GSM relay. This enables the control system to activate the release mechanism upon receiving a signal form the remote-control device. The control system may include an antenna. This improves the receipt of signals from a remote-control device. The present invention also provides a method of trapping an animal using the previously described trap, the method including: monitoring the trap; activating a notification system when a target animal enters a predetermined location around the trap; and remotely activating the spring-loaded release mechanism when the target animal is within the trap to trap the target animal. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 The method may include a step of rotating a first component of the spring-loaded release mechanism to induce linear movement of the same or a second component of the spring-loaded release mechanism to activate the spring-loaded release mechanism to trap the target animal. Suitably, the first component is a locking rod of the springloaded release mechanism. For example, rotating a locking rod of the spring-loaded release mechanism can induce a linear movement of the locking rod to withdraw from a rest of the spring-loaded release mechanism to activate the spring-loaded release mechanism to trap the target animal. The monitoring step may include using a motion sensor to detect movement around the trap. The motion sensor may be continuously operational to monito the area around the trap. The monitoring step may include using a camera to continuously monitor the area around the trap. Suitably, the camera is activated by the motion sensor. The activating step may include using a motion sensor to send a signal to a control system when a target animal enters the predetermined location. The activating step may include using the control system to alert an operator that a target animal has entered the predetermined location when the control system receives the signal from the motion sensor. The alert may be one or more of an alarm, a message to a phone, or an email. The remotely activating step may include manually activating the spring-loaded release mechanism using a remote control 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 when the target animal is within the trap to trap the target animal. The method may include baiting the trap. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS An embodiment of the invention is hereinafter described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a trap according to one form of the present invention. Figure 2 is a screenshot of a feral pig entering through an open door of the trap. Figure 3 is a screenshot of the feral pig in Figure 2 with the door closed and hence preventing the feral pig from exiting the trap. Figure 4 is a block diagram of a control system of the trap according to another form of the present invention. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a trap installed at a trapping location with the door in the open position according to one form of the present invention. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5. Figure 7 is perspective view of an end of the locking rod of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5 that is coupled to an actuator. Figure 8 is a perspective view of an end of the locking rod of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5 that is seated on a rest in the armed state. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 Figure 9 is a top view of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap of Figure 5 in the armed state. Figure 10 is a front view of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5 in the armed state. Figure 11 is a top view of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5 in the triggered state. Figure 12 is a top schematic view of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5. Figure 13 is a side schematic view of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5. Figure 14 is a front schematic view of the spring-loaded release mechanism of the trap shown in Figure 5. Figure 15A is a front view of the trap according to another form of the invention with the door in the open position. Figure 15B is a front view of the trap shown in Figure 15A with the door in the closed position. Figure 16A is a front view of the actuator of the trap shown in Figure 15A in the armed state. Figure 16B is a front view of the actuator of the trap shown in Figure 15B in the triggered state. Figure 17A is a perspective view of the trap shown in Figure 15B, closed position. of the pendulum safety catch i.e. with the door in the Figure 17B is a perspective view of the pendulum safety catch of the trap shown in Figure 15B with the door raised ajar. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 Figure 17C is a perspective view of the pendulum catch of the trap shown in Figure 15A, i.e. with the door in the open position. Figure 18 is a side schematic view of the pendulum safety catch of the trap shown in Figures 15A and 15B. Figure 19 is a top schematic view of the hinged finger of the trap shown in Figures 15A and 15B. Figure 20 is a side schematic view of the hinged finger of the trap shown in Figure 15A and 15B. Figure 21 is a perspective view of the door frame of the trap according to another form of the invention. Figure 22 is a perspective view of a trap according to another embodiment in which the cage is in a collapsed state and being transported to or from a trapping location. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention provides a portable animal trap for capturing feral pigs. Whilst the present invention is described with respect to trapping feral pigs, it can be appreciated that the trap may be used to trap other animals including cats, foxes and goats. The inventors developed the invention to allow landowners to protect their land, for example to allow farmers to protect their farmland from feral pigs that destroy crops and attack domesticated animals. The inventors were motivated to develop the present invention to protect crops and animals. They wanted an effective trap that minimizes damage to the environment. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the animal trap 10 which comprises an enclosure in the form of a cage 12, a monitoring system 14 configured to detect a target animal approaching and entering the trap, and a notification system 16 to alert the operator of a target animal approaching or entering the trap. The operator being a person coordinating the trapping of target animals. The monitoring system 14 comprises a motion sensor 14a that is directed at the entrance of trap to detect the presence of a target animal in the vicinity or entering the trap 10. The monitoring system 14 also includes a camera 14b for monitoring the trap 10 and a display device, in the form of a monitor 14c, located remotely from the trap. The monitor 14c is usually located remote to the trap, for example in a sheltered area such as a house or room. The camera 14b and monitor 14c are slave to the motion sensor 14a which enables the monitor 14c to be activated by a signal from the motion sensor 14a. The camera 14b and monitor 14c also have a sleep mode which can be woken by a signal from the motion sensor 14a in response to the presence of a target animal around the trap 10. The motion sensor 14a is continuously activated to detect the presence of a target animal. Ideally, the monitoring system is configured to trigger the notification system 16 only when a target animal approaches or enters the trap 10. For example, the motion sensor 14a may simultaneously activate the monitor 14c from sleep mode and trigger the notification 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 system 16 when movement is detected around the trap 10. Once an operator receives the notification, they use the monitor 14c to view the area around the trap including the target animal moving in the area. This allows an operator to detect movement around the trap 10 without having to constantly monitor the display device. The notification system 16 triggers an alert message that is sent via SMS to a mobile phone to alert the operator to the presence of a target animal around the trap 10. The trap 10 includes a plurality of transmitters 13, 17 and receivers 15, 18 for allowing remote communication between the motion sensor camera 14a, 14b, the monitor 14c and the control system 20. When the movement of a target animal is detected by the motion sensor camera 14a, 14b, a signal is transmitted by a first transmitter 13 to a first receiver 15 connected to the monitor 14c which triggers an alert message from the notification system 16 to be sent to the operator’s mobile phone via SMS. The operator receiving the alert message can then decide whether to transmit a signal via a second transmitter 17 to a second receiver 18 connected to the control system 20 to release a trap door to capture the target animal. The second transmitter 17 can be an operator’s mobile phone. Figures 2 and 3 show that the cage 12 includes a drop door 12a that is movable between an open position that permits passage of a target animal into the enclosure (as shown in Figure 2) and a closed position (as shown in Figure 3) that restricts passage of the target animal out of the enclosure. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 Figure 4 provides a magnified version of the control system 20. The control system 20 comprises a 12-volt GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) relay 21, i.e. a switch that is operated by 3G, 4G or 5G telecom signals, a 12-volt 9-amp rechargeable battery 25, a 12-volt solar power controller 27, a transformer 28 and a 30-amp relay 29. These components are housed within a water-proof box to protect them from the environment. The control system 20 is powered by the 12-volt 9-amp rechargeable battery 25, which in turn is chargeable by a 10-Watt solar panel 26 via the 12-volt solar power controller 27. During daylight hours, the solar panel 26 can be used to power the control system 20 and / or charge the battery 25 using the solar power controller 27. At night, the control system 20 is exclusively powered by the battery 25. The transformer 28 converts the 12-volt power supply from the 12-volt solar controller to a 6-volt DC power supply to operate a 6-volt motion-activated camera 23. The motion-activated camera 23 is connected to the control system 20 via a 10-amp power cable. The solar power controller 27 can also be used to power an infrared sensor, suitably a passive infrared sensor (not shown), for activating the motion-activated camera or a horn to emit a sound or a spray system to discharge a scent or smell to deter / repel a non-target animal. The motion-activated camera 23 communicates with the notification system via the transmitter, as described with reference to Figure 1. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 When the motion-activated camera 23 detects the presence of a target animal in the vicinity of the trap, it sends a signal to the notification system via the transmitter. The transmitter may be wireless or wired. The camera 23 may be configured to only send a signal to the notification system when a target animal is detected. This improves the effectiveness of the system by reducing the number of unnecessary alerts to the operator. The notification system can be in the form of an SMS alert sent to a mobile telephone of an operator. This would motivate the operator to actively watch the trap via a display such as a monitor. Once the target animal (i.e. a feral pig) is safely within the cage, the operator may choose to send a signal from the mobile telephone (such as a text or other 3G, 4G or 5G mobile phone network signal), satellite phone or satellite internet, to the control system 20 to trigger the release mechanism and trap the target animal. The signal from the mobile telephone is received by the GSM relay 21 which triggers the 30-amp relay 29 to power an actuator 24 connected to a release mechanism (described later in the specification). It is also envisaged that the signal from the mobile telephone may be used to transmit a siren and / or smell to scare non-target animals away from the trap. In one example, the actuator 24 triggers closure of the drop door 12a when a code is sent via a text from a mobile phone and the signal is received by the antenna 22. The signal from the antenna 22 is transmitted to the GSM relay 21 which in turn sends a signal to the 30-amp relay 29 to power the 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 actuator 24 which releases the door 12a from the open position to the closed position. The transition of the door 12a from the open position to the closed position is effected by a spring-loaded release mechanism that is installed on the trap 10. Figures 5 to 14 show the remotely controlled spring-loaded release mechanism 30 in the context of the trap 10. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the release mechanism 30 comprises a spring 32 coiled around locking rod 31. The locking rod 31 is slidably mounted to the frame of the trap 10 via a bracket 33 (Figure 8). The bracket 33 comprises a base 33a with a pair of vertically extending flanges 33b, 33c. Each of the flanges 33b, 33c has a hole for slidably receiving the locking rod 31. The locking rod 31 has an engagement end 34, an actuator end 35 and a radially extending arm 36 that is located towards the engagement end. A finger 37 extends from the bottom of the door 12a and defines a rest for the locking rod 31 when the drop door 12a is in the open position. The finger 37 prevents downward movement of the door 12a by virtue of its engagement with the locking rod 31. The engagement end 34 of the locking rod 31 is cut at a 45° angle to reduce the contact surface area between the engagement end 34 and the finger 37. This reduces friction between the two components when locking rod 31 disengages the finger 37 while transitioning from the open to closed position. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 The spring 32 is wrapped around the locking rod 31 and is secured between the radially projecting arm 36 and the flange 33b of the bracket 33. A detent 38, in the form of an upright shaft, extends from the door frame 12a. The detent 38 comprises a fixed end that is secured to the base 33a, a free end located opposite the fixed end and a circumferential groove located between the fixed end and the free end, typically proximal to the free end. The circumferential groove receives the projecting arm 36, when the drop door 12a is in the open position during arming of the locking mechanism, and restricts axial movement of the locking rod 31 by limiting rotation of the projecting arm 36 relative to the detent 38. This minimises accidental disengagement of the engagement end 34 with the finger 37 when arming the trap. The detent 38 is distanced from the flange 33b of the bracket 33 such that the spring 32 is compressed between the flange 33b and the projecting arm 36 when the trap door is in the open position. When the spring 32 is compressed in this fashion, the release mechanism 30 is in the armed state. Once armed, the projecting arm 36 is removed from the groove to rest against a portion of the detent 38 located between the free end and the groove of the detent 38. If the projecting arm 36 is left in the groove the actuator may not be capable of triggering the release mechanism 30. When the release mechanism 30 is armed, the actuator 24 can close the drop door 12a by rotating the locking rod 31 in an anti-clockwise direction, when viewed from the engagement end 34 of the locking rod 31, until the projecting arm 36 no longer abuts the detent 38. This releases the spring 32 from 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 tension and induces linear movement of the locking rod 31 which causes the engagement end 34 to disengage the finger 37 in a snap movement and allows the drop door 12a to fall under gravity into the closed position. Figure 11 shows the release mechanism 30 in the triggered condition. Axial movement of the locking rod 31 is limited by the projecting arm 36 which abuts the flange 33c to prevent the spring from escaping the locking rod 31. The release mechanism 30 allows for rapid closure of the cage as only a small amount of rotation of the locking rod 31 is required to release the drop door 12a. This is further facilitated by the use of the spring 32 which stores potential energy. Once triggered, the release of the spring from tension rapidly converts the potential energy stored in the spring 32 into kinetic energy to withdraw the locking rod 31 from the finger 37. The axial movement of the locking rod 31 prevents the locking rod 31 from obstructing the door 12a when falling under gravity into the closed position. Figures 15A and 15B show a trap 10 according to another form of the invention. Figure 15A shows the drop door 12a in the open position and the Figure 15B shows the drop door in the closed position. These figures show the location of the actuator 24, the finger 37 and a pendulum safety catch 40 in relation to the cage 12 of the trap 10. Figure 16A shows the actuator 24 in the armed state whereas Figure 16B shows the actuator 24 in the triggered state. The linear motion produced by the actuator 24, pulls upward a turnbuckle 24a, which is connected to the actuator end 35 of 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 the locking rod 31. Pulling the turnbuckle 24a rotates the locking rod 31 in an anti-clockwise direction when viewed from the engagement end 34 of the locking rod 31. The turnbuckle 24a may allow adjustment of the locking rod 31 to finetune the sensitivity of the release mechanism 30. The pendulum safety catch 40 is shown in greater detail in Figures 17A, 17B, 17C and 18. The pendulum safety catch 40 is a locking mechanism that restricts upward movement (i.e. lifting) of the door 12a once in the closed position. The pendulum safety catch 40 comprises a triangular body 40a and a weighted portion 40b attached to the triangular body 40a. The body 40a is pivotably mounted to the door frame of the cage 12 and is pivotable between a displaced position and an equilibrium position. The catch 40 is asymmetrically shaped and weighted, such that the centre of gravity allows a portion 40c of the body 40a to obstruct the door 12a when the catch is in the equilibrium position. When the door 12a falls from the open position to the closed position, it pushes the catch 40 into the displaced position and away from the path of travel of the door 12a. The displacement of the catch 40 by the door 12a is assisted by a cam surface 40d along the hypotenuse of the triangular body. The catch 40 has a centre of gravity that returns the catch 40 to an equilibrium position whereby the portion 40c of the body 40a comes to rest above the top of the closed door 12a with the portion 40c of the body 40a obstructing the door 12a, as shown in Figure 17A. If the door is lifted from the closed position, the portion 40c of the body 40a gets caught on the door 12a and restricts upward movement of the door 12a (Figure 17B). As such, this prevents a trapped animal from lifting the closed door 12a and escaping from the trap. 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 Figures 19 and 20 show the finger 37 which projects from a body 37a that is pivotably mounted to a bottom rail of the door 12a. The body 37a is pivotably mounted to the door 12a to facilitate lifting of the door 12a from the closed position to the open position. Figure 21 shows the door frame of the cage 12 which comprises a pair of open channel sections 50. The channels of the open channel sections 50 are arranged to face inwardly into the entrance of the cage 12 to slidably receive door 12a. Suitably, the open channel sections 50 are formed from folded 2mm mild steel and are 35mm deep and 50mm wide. The frame of the door 12a is made of a box section formed from folded 2mm mild steel and are 30mm deep and 30mm wide. As can be appreciated, the box section fits comfortably within the channels with a large tolerance to facilitate sliding of the door within the channels. The applicant has found that the slidable arrangement of the frame of the door 12a in the channel of the open channel sections 50 provides increased reliability over telescopic tube sliding sections known in the art. Tube sliding sections known in the art are prone to jamming, which is exacerbated when animals strike the door 12a or if the cage 12 is positioned on uneven ground. Jamming of the door 12a can prevent closure of the drop door and is thus desirable to avoid. The applicant has found that the open channel design of the present invention reduces the risk of jamming which could otherwise prevent the door from dropping into the closed position. This is further facilitated by the large tolerance 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 between the frame of the door 12a and the open channel sections 50. Figure 22 shows a cage 12 in a collapsed configuration and being transported to or from a trapping location. The cage 12 comprises demountable fence panels 51 that define an enclosed area when assembled together in an end-to-end arrangement. The fence panels 51 comprise a plurality of upright posts intersecting with and connected to a plurality of transverse rails. As can be seen in Figure 22, the fence panels 51 are demountable and can be arranged side-by-side on a trolley 52 for transportation to and from the trapping location. The trolley 52 comprises a chassis 53, a pair of axles 54 rotatably connected to the chassis 53, off-road wheels 55 connected to the ends of each pair of axles 54, a pull handle 56 and a steering mechanism 57. The pull handle 56 is coupled to the chassis 53 and the steering mechanism 57 such that pulling the pull handle 56 pulls the chassis 53 along the ground and pivoting the pull handle 56 left to right of the chassis 53 turns a pair of wheels to change the direction of the trolley 52. Once in a trapping location, the fence panels 51 are dismounted from the trolley 51 and assembled together in an end-to-end arrangement to produce the cage 12. The assembled cage 12 is then secured to the ground with the use of ground anchors. The anchors comprise a 400mm long, 12mm diameter rod with a hooked end. In use, the rod is manually inserted into the ground until hooked end comes into contact with cage 12 to secure the cage 12 to the ground. In other words, the anchors secure the cage 12 to the ground in a similar fashion to the way tent pegs can be used to secure a tent the ground. The 2026223264   27 Aug 2026 hooked end can also be used to support equipment, such as a control box or bait bucket, from the cage 12. To disassemble the cage 12, the above steps are performed in reverse order. An advantage of using the trolley 52 is that the trap 12 can be transported to and from the trapping location by a single person without the use of machinery. This reduces labour costs as well as minimising damage to the environment that would otherwise be caused by using road vehicles to transport the trap. The trapping system can also be used for non-feral animals to capture animals for non-destructive purposes such as scientific observation, relocation, etc. It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims

2026223264   27 Aug 2026CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A portable animal trap comprising:an enclosure including a door that is movable between an open position that permits passage of a target animal into the enclosure and a closed position that restricts passage of the animal out of the enclosure, the enclosure is adapted to receive a lure or bait to attract a target animal;a monitoring system configured to detect a target animal entering the trap;a control system to receive a signal from the monitoring system and trigger a notification system in response to the signal from the monitoring system; anda spring-loaded release mechanism that is configured to be remotely actuated to move the door from the open position to the closed position to trap the target animal.

2. The portable animal trap according to claim 1, wherein the spring-loaded release mechanism is actuated by rotational movement of one component of the spring-loaded release mechanism to induce linear movement of the same or a second component of the spring-loaded release mechanism.

3. The portable animal trap according to either claim 1 or2, wherein the spring-loaded release mechanism comprises a spring loaded locking rod and a rest on which the locking rod sits.

4. The portable animal trap according to claim 3, wherein the spring-loaded release mechanism is actuated by rotating the locking rod to induce a linear movement of the locking rod to withdraw from the rest.

5. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the enclosure comprises a locking2026223264   27 Aug 2026mechanism that restricts upward movement (i.e. lifting) of the door once in the closed position.

6. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the catch is pivotable between a displaced position and an equilibrium position in which a portion of the catch obstructs movement of the door when in the equilibrium position.

7. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the trap is configured to be armed by a single person.

8. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring-loaded release mechanism is located on the enclosure.

9. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system is configured to actuate the spring-loaded mechanism in response to a signal from a remote-control device.

10. The portable animal trap according to claim 9, wherein the remote-control device transmits or receives signals wirelessly.

11. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system is used to transmit a sound or smell that can be used to attract the target animal or deter / repel a non-target animal.

12. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system utilizes image recognition technology so that the system only alerts the operator when the target animal has approached or entered the trap.2026223264   27 Aug 202613. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system is configured to differentiate between a target animal and a non-target animal and activate the notification system only when a target animal is detected.

14. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring system includes a motion sensor to detect the presence of an animal.

15. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the motion sensor is configured to transmit a signal to the control system upon detecting movement around the trap.

16. The portable animal trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the motion sensor is configured to trigger the notification system when movement is detected around the trap.

17. A method of trapping a target animal using the previously described trap, the method including: monitoring the trap;activating a notification system when a target animal enters a predetermined location around the trap; andremotely activating the spring-loaded release mechanism when the target animal is within the trap to trap the target animal.

18. The method according to claim 17, including a step of rotating a component of the spring-loaded release mechanism to induce linear movement of the same or a second component of the spring-loaded release mechanism to activate the springloaded release mechanism to trap the target animal.

19. The method according to claim 18, including rotating a locking rod of the spring-loaded release mechanism to induce a2026223264   27 Aug 2026linear movement of the locking rod to withdraw from a rest of the spring-loaded release mechanism to activate the springloaded release mechanism to trap the target animal.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the monitoring step includes using a camera to continuously monitor the area around the trap.

21. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the activating step includes using a motion sensor to send a signal to a control system when a target animal enters the predetermined location.

22. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the activating step includes using the control system to alert an operator that a target animal has entered the predetermined location when the control system receives the signal from the motion sensor.

23. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein the remotely activating step includes manually activating the spring-loaded release mechanism using a remote control when the target animal is within the trap to trap the target animal.

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