The Sticky Truth: Why Glue Traps Are a Bad Idea

Glue traps. Also known as sticky traps or adhesive traps, these devices consist of a board covered in a strong adhesive designed to trap rodents like mice and rats. While they might seem like a simple and inexpensive solution to a pest problem, the reality is far from straightforward. In fact, glue traps are widely considered to be one of the most inhumane and problematic pest control methods available. This blog post will delve into why, highlighting the ethical and legal concerns surrounding their use.

Inhumane and Ineffective:

The premise of a glue trap is simple: an animal steps onto the sticky surface and becomes immobilised. However, the suffering that ensues is anything but simple. Imagine being stuck fast, unable to move, struggling frantically as the adhesive grips tighter. This is the reality for animals caught in glue traps.

• Prolonged Suffering: Death is rarely instantaneous. Mice and rats can remain trapped for hours, even days, before finally succumbing to starvation, dehydration, suffocation, or self-inflicted injuries from their desperate attempts to escape. The stress and panic they experience during this time is immense.
• Beyond Rodents: Glue traps are indiscriminate. They don’t distinguish between the intended target and other animals. Birds, squirrels, snakes, insects, and even pets like cats and dogs can become ensnared, often with devastating consequences. Removing these animals from the trap can be extremely difficult and may require veterinary intervention, causing further stress and potential injury.
• Unsanitary and Messy: Trapped animals often defecate and urinate, creating a health hazard. The traps themselves become unsanitary and difficult to dispose of, especially if the trapped animal has decomposed.

Legal Implications: The Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022

In recognition of the severe animal welfare issues associated with glue traps, the UK government introduced the Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022. This legislation places significant restrictions on the use of glue traps, aiming to protect animals from unnecessary suffering.

For Homeowners:

While the act doesn’t completely outlaw glue traps for homeowners, it places a heavy burden of responsibility on them. The law states that anyone using a glue trap must be competent to do so. This includes knowing how to:

• Correctly set and place the traps.
• Regularly check the traps (at least every 24 hours and preferably more frequently).
• Humanely dispatch any captured animal, if necessary.
• Safely release any non-target animals.

Lack of Competence = Offence:

Crucially, if a non-target animal is caught in a glue trap, the homeowner is considered to have committed an offence under the Act if they are not deemed competent. This highlights the seriousness of using these traps without the necessary knowledge and skills. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.

Humane Alternatives:

There are far more humane and effective ways to deal with rodent problems. These include:

• Prevention: The best approach is to prevent infestations in the first place. Seal entry points, store food properly, and maintain good sanitation.
• Trapping (Snap Traps): Traditional snap traps, while designed to kill, offer a quicker and more humane death than glue traps when used correctly. Ensure they are placed strategically and checked regularly.
• Professional Pest Control: For larger infestations or if you’re uncomfortable dealing with the problem yourself, a qualified pest control professional is the best option. They have the expertise and resources to handle rodent problems effectively and humanely.

The Bottom Line:

Glue traps are a cruel and indiscriminate method of pest control. The prolonged suffering they inflict on animals, the risk to non-target species, and the legal implications for homeowners make them a practice that should be avoided. Choose humane and effective alternatives to protect both your home and the animals that may inadvertently cross your path.

Green Pest Control Services is against the use of glue boards, and never deploys them in any pest control situation due to their horrendous method of operation. If you need help controlling  rats or mice, contact me for a more humane solution.