Abstract: A leg snare apparatus and method for capturing animals uses a mechanical throw arm, that when triggered by an animal of sufficient size stepping on the pan, throws a snare up and around the leg of the animal. The pan tension of the device may be readily adjusted to avoid being triggered by lighter weight non-target animals, and the pan may also be leveled. Moreover, the snare is supported so that it cannot be readily dislodged after the apparatus is set, the loop is not deflected out of its proper position when the apparatus is triggered, and the loop is retained in place until the throw arm has moved it high up the animal's leg or foot. Should the apparatus be triggered by larger, non-target animals, the apparatus includes a break-away snare to allow the animal to escape.