RSPCA urges ban on glue trap sale and supply
It remains legal to sell and supply glue traps in England and Wales.
The RSPCA has advocated for a ban on the sale and supply of glue traps in England and Wales.
Its calls come as new legislation banning the sale, supply and use of glue traps in Scotland comes into force from 1 July. The legislation makes it a criminal offence to use, supply or possess a glue trap.
While both England and Wales have banned the use of glue traps, it remains legal to sell and supply the devices. The RSPCA says the countries must close the ‘loopholes’.
Glue traps, which are also known as ‘glue boards’ or ‘sticky boards’, consist of a sheet which is coated in non-drying adhesive. They are designed to trap rodents as they cross the board.
The traps do not immediately kill trapped animals, meaning those stuck on them suffer severe and often fatal injuries. Animals, often include cats and birds, can be left at high risk of dehydration, starvation and exhaustion.
Trying to escape can also cause them to rip out feathers, patches of fur and even break bones.
Speaking on the ban in Scotland to Sky News, a Scottish SPCA special investigations inspector said: "Glue traps are inhumane devices that inflict prolonged suffering on any animal unfortunate enough to become caught in one.
"We've seen first-hand the catastrophic injuries they cause, so today's ban coming into force is a hugely important step forward for animal welfare in Scotland.”
The RSPCA is continuing to campaign for similar legislation to be enforced in England and Wales. While the use of the traps is banned in both countries, the charity warns that continued sale and supply means that animals are still at risk.
Rebecca Machin, wildlife expert at RSPCA, said: “Restrictions introduced in England and Wales, banning the use of these cruel traps by the public, were a significant step forward. But as they can still be legally sold to the public, there is confusion around their use - and animals remain at risk.
“Sadly, it’s still legal for professional pest controllers to use these inhumane traps in England, although only under licence in specific circumstances. Meanwhile in Wales, the use of glue traps is banned altogether, but the sale of them is still legal.
“Scotland’s latest legislation shows there is an opportunity to go further. We’d like to see governments in both England and Wales close these remaining loopholes and strengthen the protection of animals.”
Image © RSPCA
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