A snare is a long piece of wire with a loop at the end and is attached to a large tree or log. Set along game paths or near water holes, the snare catches an animal by the neck as it is walking along the trail. As the animal continues moving forward, the snare pulls tight, trapping the animal.

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In many parts of Africa wire snare hunting is the preferred method for poaching. Whilst most snares are set by poachers to catch small game and antelopes for the bushmeat market, they regularly entrap and maim other, more endangered animals like lions, giraffes, wild dogs and elephants. The result is usually a deep painful wound that quickly becomes infected and could result in death for the animal