I can get hold of a fox trap from a country store nearby which is £144.90. It is 50cm wide, 120cm long, and 55cm high. Is this big enough to entice a fox into and is it worth it for the price? Advice appreciated.
Thanks
Personally, when I do use cage traps, they measure around 5' x 2' x 2'. Having said that, at this time of the year you're most likely to be trapping youngsters so something like the one you illustrated will probably suffice, although a look on ebay will produce similar at far less money.
As has previously been said, you need to let the cage 'weather' a bit to get rid of human/metallic scent. You can hasten the process by liberal smearing with a tin of dog food, with the cage left open. You can bait the trap or the area in the immediate vicinity, for a few days prior to setting it in anger, and don't forget to cover the floor of the cage with a light application of soil/moss/lichen as Reynard dislikes the feel of the metal underfoot.
As for bait, well anything from a rabbit through to dog food with mackerel mixed in should be a welcome invitation. One unlikely favourite bait of mine is collecting the hoof trimmings once the farrier has visited. After they've been subjected to a couple of downpours, they don't half stink and I can see why they're attractive to fox!
When it comes to culling the animal, ensure the deed is performed by someone who can carry out the task in a quick and humane way.
Finally, be prepared for releasing non-target species and sprung traps with no sign of the intended quarry!