England prohibits the public use of inhumane rodent glue traps, but animal charity cautions against unintentional violation of the law, as traps remain on sale in stores.

The Glue Trap (Offences) Act 2022, which comes into effect in England today, marks a significant step towards animal welfare by banning the use of rodent glue traps by the public. This move follows similar bans in Wales and Scotland and has been applauded by Humane Society International/UK, a leading animal protection organization. The use of glue traps has long been criticized for being inhumane, indiscriminate, and causing immense suffering to small mammals.

Glue traps, easily accessible for as little as 99p in hardware and corner shops, immobilize animals in strong adhesive, leading to horrific injuries such as suffocation, skin and fur damage, and broken limbs as the creatures struggle to free themselves. Not only do these traps pose a severe risk to rodents, but they also endanger other species like hedgehogs, cats, and wild birds, often resulting in fatal consequences.

Claire Bass, senior campaigns and public affairs director for HSI/UK, expressed delight over the ban on public use of glue traps but cautioned against accidental law-breaking as these traps are still available for purchase. While it is now illegal for the public to use glue traps, the sale and buying of these traps remain legal, creating confusion among consumers. HSI/UK is advocating for retailers to voluntarily stop stocking glue traps and is urging the UK, Welsh, and Scottish governments to unite in banning the sale of these cruel devices.

Research conducted by HSI/UK on the welfare issues associated with glue traps has been instrumental in shaping the legislation across all three nations. The study revealed that a significant portion of the public lacks knowledge on how to handle animals caught in glue traps, with some resorting to actions that may violate animal welfare laws. HSI/UK emphasizes the importance of humane rodent control methods, such as removing food sources and blocking access points, as a more effective and ethical approach to managing pest issues.

The Glue Trap (Offences) Act 2022 mandates that rodent control professionals in England must obtain licenses for glue trap use only in exceptional circumstances where alternative methods have failed. Failure to comply with the regulations could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or fines. The Welsh Government has already implemented a complete ban on rodent glue traps, while the Scottish Government has passed a ban with provisions for exceptional circumstances.

In conclusion, the ban on the public use of glue traps in England is a significant victory for animal welfare. It underscores the importance of adopting humane methods of pest control and highlights the need for greater awareness and education on the ethical treatment of animals. By working together to eliminate the use of cruel devices like glue traps, we can create a safer and more compassionate environment for all living beings.