The Beai is a traditional trap gun woven and used by the Mizo tribe of people who inhabit the state of Mizoram in India. The unique hunting mechanism, preserved in the Indian Museum, Kolkata, speaks of the tribe's in-depth knowledge of the behavior of animals and the eco-friendly craftsmanship of utilizing materials derived from nature.The trap originated out of three major elements: A rectangular flat and long wooden base, long bamboo stick with a cotton string fastened to it and short conical wooden stick. The base has a square hole cut at either end with a square piece of wood fixed on top. From this raised block extends erect a vertically placed bamboo strip, while another strip of bamboo bent around it acts as a spring-loaded trap trigger.
The trap is designed chiefly to catch wildfowl. The mechanics of this contraption are simple, relying chiefly on the tension. The cotton string when activated tightens the noose capturing the bird without inflicting grave injury-sustainable and respectful hunting.This object was both practical and symbolized the sustainability of the Mizo tribe to maintain the integrity of nature.