I use aircraft cable and the loop is about 14 inches diameter. I set my snares 12-14 inches offf the ground and blend it in well with twigs and grass.

Snares are meant to kill the animal intended to catch, the coyote slides his head through the loop and feels resistance, so he bolts to the end of the wire, and it tightens immediately, killing the animal very quickly, much more humane i find, thats why i love using snares. Good luck andyo!!!!!!!!!!!!!