> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ocutrap.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ocutrap.com/getting-started/handling-a-captured-animal.md).

# Handling & Releasing a Captured Animal

When an Armed trap closes on a verified detection, **it holds the animal until you release it** — there is no auto-release. This page covers what *you* do next, in the field. For how the door and app behave after a capture, see [After a Capture](/getting-started/app/after-capture.md).

{% hint style="danger" %}
The OcuTrap door closes in under half a second and can pinch or crush. A trapped animal may also be stressed and defensive. **Keep your hands, fingers, and face clear of the door's path at all times**, and keep children and pets away. See [Safety Information](/support/safety-information.md).
{% endhint %}

***

## Before You Approach

1. **Check the app first.** Confirm the trap reads **Captured / Closed**, and tap **Request Image** for a fresh photo so you know what you've caught and its condition before walking up.
2. **Identify the animal.** OcuTrap targets animals in the **5–25 lb** range (e.g., cats, raccoons, opossums). Decide whether it's your **target** animal or a **non-target** capture — this changes what you do next (see below).
3. **Bring the right gear.** Thick gloves and, ideally, a towel or blanket to cover the trap.

***

## Approaching Safely

* Move **calmly and quietly** — a startled animal thrashes and can injure itself.
* **Cover the trap** with a towel or blanket. Reducing what the animal can see usually calms it noticeably.
* Keep the trap **level and upright**; don't tilt, drop, or jostle it.
* Stay **clear of the door's path** and never put fingers through the cage.

***

## Releasing a Target Animal

{% hint style="warning" %}
Where and how you may release or relocate an animal is regulated and varies by location. Read [Responsible & Legal Use](/legal-and-compliance/responsible-and-legal-use.md) **before** you release or relocate anything.
{% endhint %}

1. Position the trap at your release point with the **door end facing away** from you and toward open space.
2. Stand **behind or to the side** of the trap, clear of the door.
3. In the app, tap **Open** — this releases the door **and** returns the trap to **Unarmed**.
4. Let the animal **leave on its own**. Do not reach in or tip the trap to force it out.

## Transporting Before Release

If you need to move the trap before releasing (for example, to an approved relocation site), you don't need to change the trap's state — it can **stay in Captured mode**, with the door closed, while you transport it.

1. **Verify the door is fully closed and locked** before you lift the trap, so the animal cannot push it open in transit. For the most secure hold, see [Enhanced Door Closing](/getting-started/trap-settings/enhanced-door-closing.md).
2. Keep the trap **covered, level, well-ventilated, and out of direct sun and heat**.
3. Release **as soon as possible** — minimize the time the animal is confined.
4. At the release site, tap **Open** to release the door (this also returns the trap to **Unarmed**).

{% hint style="info" %}
You can also tap **Unarm**, which keeps the door closed but returns the trap to Unarmed for the move. Either way, confirm the door is locked first. See [After a Capture](/getting-started/app/after-capture.md) for how the Open and Unarm buttons differ.
{% endhint %}

***

## Non-Target Captures

If you've caught an animal you didn't intend to (including someone's pet — note the 5–25 lb range overlaps with cats):

* **Release it promptly and unharmed at the capture site.** As a rule, non-target and protected species should be let go where they were caught, not relocated.
* If the animal appears injured or you're unsure how to proceed, contact your local wildlife authority or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
* See [Responsible & Legal Use](/legal-and-compliance/responsible-and-legal-use.md) for rules on protected species and relocation.

***

## After Release

* **Inspect and clean** the trap before redeploying — see [Maintenance](/getting-started/maintenance.md).
* **Re-arm for the next capture:** after tapping **Open**, the trap is **Unarmed / Open**. Tap **Arm** on the trap card to put it back into service.
* OcuTrap sends **repeat capture reminders for up to 48 hours** so a captured animal is never forgotten. For the animal's welfare, respond as quickly as you can.

***

## See also

* [After a Capture](/getting-started/app/after-capture.md) — how the door and app behave once a trap closes.
* [Responsible & Legal Use](/legal-and-compliance/responsible-and-legal-use.md) — local laws on trapping and relocation.
* [Safety Information](/support/safety-information.md) — injury risks and precautions.
* [Maintenance](/getting-started/maintenance.md) — cleaning and inspection between captures.


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