The first total ban on the use of snares and glue traps in the UK
will come into force this Autumn in Wales, Rural Affairs Minister
has confirmed.
From the 17 October the use of snares and glue traps will be
illegal in Wales, which will help prevent indiscriminate
suffering to animals. This follows the passing of the
Agriculture (Wales) Act into law this summer which included the
provision.
The ban on the use of snares is a Programme for Government
commitment and was supported by a majority of those who took part
in the public consultation.
Snares, sometimes referred to as cable restraints, cause a great
deal of suffering to animals and are indiscriminate as they can
harm species they are not intended for such as otters, dogs and
cats. An animal caught in a snare can endure acute
pain and suffering.
Similarly glue traps cause suffering to the trapped animal,
including the rodent it was intended for and other animals such
as cats. If pets such as cats are caught in a glue
trap it can tragically lead to the animal being put to sleep as a
result of the injuries sustained.
The UK Government has legislated for only a partial ban in
England, but a complete ban will be introduced in Wales, another
first in the UK.
While rodent control is essential where prevention has failed,
more humane and targeted methods are available.
The Minister said:
The use of snares and glue traps are not compatible with the high
animal welfare standards we strive for here in
Wales. These methods can cause a great deal of
suffering and harm to all animals.
The banning of snares is a Programme for Government commitment
and we have been working towards this day for a long time with
partners and stakeholders. Many animals, including
those which were not the intended target of the snare, will be
spared suffering as a result of this ban.
Banning snares is about preventing inhumane methods being used
and does not prevent predator control using other methods.
There are also many more humane ways to control rodents than
through the use of glue traps.
I’m pleased Wales is leading the way on this issue, and we will
continue to strive for high animal welfare standards.
From 17 October the use of snares and glue traps will be illegal
in Wales. Anyone found guilty of using a snare could face
imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both.
