SPCA discourages use of 'inhumane' glue traps

FRIDAY, MAY 11: The SPCA has urged homeowners not to set glue traps outside their properties to catch mammals.

The warning comes after staff were recently called to a home to rescue a stricken sparrow that had become stuck in the trap.

SPCA inspector Glyn Roberts told the Sun: “The Bermuda SPCA is advising homeowners that the use of glue traps to trap mammals is not a humane method and can cause prolonged suffering.

“In cases where they are not set inside buildings or covered they can trap birds and lizards as is highlighted by a case this week when the SPCA were called to collect a sparrow that had become firmly stuck on a glue trap set out in the open on a patio.”

Mr Roberts said it would be better to use a properly set trap or employ a professional pest company.

He added: “Clearly once the rat or mouse is trapped the homeowner is then faced with the problem of how to humanely destroy it.

“Drowning of animals is not considered a painless or humane way of disposal and is illegal in many parts of the world.

“The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) list drowning as a means of euthanasia as being: ‘Totally unacceptable’.

“Far better to use a properly set trap that causes immediate and painless death or to employ the services of a professional pest control company.

“However the most effective method of pest control is to remove the cause of the problem which is often waste food and rubbish which attracts pests in the first place.”