Wales’ historic total ban on the use of snares and glue traps
comes into force from today (17 October) helping end the
indiscriminate suffering of animals, Rural Affairs Minister
has said
From today the use of snares or glue traps in Wales is illegal,
the first ban of its kind in the UK. This measure was
included in Wales’ first Agriculture Act and the ban on snares is
a Programme for Government commitment.
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.
Alternative methods of predator control are widely available, and
similarly while rodent control is essential where prevention has
failed, more humane and targeted methods are available.
Rural Affairs Minister said: “This is a historic
day for animal welfare. We strive for the very highest
standards of animal welfare in Wales, and the use of snares and
glue traps are incompatible with what we want to achieve.
“Many animals will now be spared the most terrible
suffering as a result of this ban. I’m proud Wales is the
first of the UK nations to introduce such a move.
“The banning of snares and glue traps is not about
preventing predator or rodent control. There are other more
humane ways to do this.
“I’d like to thank all our partners who’ve worked hard to bring
this ban about, and I look forward to continuing to ensure we
have the very highest standards of animal welfare in Wales.”
Rob Taylor, Wales Rural and Wildlife Crime Co-ordinator
said: ““I welcome the introduction of the ban here in Wales
today. These traps are indiscriminate and over the years I have
personally seen various none target species, such as badgers and
cats caught in snares and suffering terrible injury. After today
anyone caught using a snare or glue trap in Wales could face a
fine or imprisonment, so we advise people to be aware of this new
law and act accordingly”.
Billie-Jade Thomas, senior public affairs manager at RSPCA Cymru
said: “We very much welcome the ban on snares and glue traps
coming into force today.
“Both have the potential to cause immeasurable suffering to
animals. Too often, our officers have dealt with animals in
severe pain and misery at the hands of these devices; which are
cruel, indiscriminate and totally unnecessary.
“The lives of many animals will be saved including wildlife, pets
and farm animals such as sheep and lambs.”
