Become a Ground Crew Trapper

Small Actions. Massive Impact.

No Experience Required.

Why Join the Ground Crew?

Trapping is the front line of feline welfare in Kern County. When you pick up a trap, you aren’t just "catching a cat"—you are stopping a cycle of suffering and giving a neighborhood the gift of a stable, healthy colony.

The Whisker Project of Kern-TNR:  People gathered around a grill covered with a white cloth outdoors, with one person sitting at the table and others standing nearby.

The "Confidence" Checklist

  • It’s Humane: Our traps are designed to be safe and stress-free. The cats are in the trap for a very short time before heading to their medical appointment.

  • It’s Flexible: Trapping usually happens in the evening or early morning. Whether you can help once a week or once a month, you are making a difference.

  • It’s Rewarding: There is no feeling like releasing a healthy, sterilized cat back to its home, knowing you just prevented hundreds of future homeless kittens.

The Whisker Project of Kern-TNR:  An orange and white cat inside a metal wire cage on a vehicle's trunk, with a towel, a green bag, and a blue plastic container nearby.

You’re Never Trapping Alone

We know that "Trap-Neuter-Return" sounds technical, but it’s a skill anyone can learn. When you volunteer with The Whisker Project of Kern, you get:

  • Hands-On Training: We’ll pair you with a seasoned trapper for your first few missions until you feel like a pro.

  • The Right Tools: You don't need your own gear; we provide humane box traps, drop traps, and transport covers.

  • A Strategic Plan: You won't be wandering aimlessly. You'll be assigned specific "Strategic Rescue" zones in Bakersfield where we know help is needed most.

The Whisker Project of Kern-TNR:  A person wearing blue gloves places a towel over a metal animal trap with a tabby cat inside in an alleyway during sunset.