11/22/2025
Glue traps should be outlawed. Do not use these. There are plenty of other alternatives more effective against pests that donโt harm wildlife and domesticated animals.
Glue traps do not discriminate. No animal should ever have to endure the cruelty they inflict.
On Wednesday, a San Antonio Animal Care Services officer contacted Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation staff after responding to a call involving a kitten trapped on one of these cruel devices. The officer had been to a WRR presentation about these before, and that information, coupled with his own experience, compassion, and careful judgment, helped guide his response. Knowing how easily an animal can be further harmed during removal, he chose not to risk her well-being in the field and instead brought the kitten to ACS staff who were equipped to help safely. We are grateful for his thoughtful decision and for all who act with such respect for life.
Cases like this echo what we see far too often. Glue traps ensnare any living being unfortunate enough to cross their path: birds seeking food, reptiles hunting insects, small mammals searching for food, water, or shelter, and even companion animals. Once trapped, animals panic and struggle; the more they struggle, the more they suffer. Many animals face hours or days of fear, injury, dehydration, and exhaustion, and in the case of small animals such as mice, lizards, and birds, countless die in the grip of these traps.
If you know someone who uses these, please educate them and ask them to stop. If you find an animal caught in a glue trap, please do not attempt to free them yourself. Even well-meant efforts can worsen the harm, especially for animals with delicate skin, fur, or feathers. Trained wildlife rehabilitators and veterinary professionals have the tools and knowledge to help these victims safely.
There are humane, effective alternatives. Glue traps are never necessary, and they are never kind. Compassion calls us to choose differently.
Please join us in refusing to use glue traps. If you find an animal in a glue trap, contact WRRโs Hotline at 830-336-2725.
Photo credit: City of San Antonio Animal Care Services