Are glue traps legal in Ireland?

Glue traps are illegal for general use in the Republic of Ireland and are restricted in parts of the UK, but they can still be legally used by licensed pest controllers in some areas and have no restrictions on sale or use in Northern Ireland.

What harm do glue traps cause to wildlife?

Glue traps cause severe harm to wildlife, leading to injuries like broken bones, damaged wings, and distress. Birds can become stuck, unable to fly, and may suffer a slow and painful death from exhaustion or stress.

What is being done about glue traps in Northern Ireland?

Animal welfare groups are calling for an outright ban on glue traps in Northern Ireland, arguing they are inhumane and cruel. While not illegal to set, causing unnecessary suffering to animals caught in them is an offense.

Home / Environment / Glue Traps Injure Irish Birds: A Cruel Reality

Glue Traps Injure Irish Birds: A Cruel Reality

2 Feb

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Summary

Glue traps, illegal in the Republic of Ireland, are causing severe harm to wild birds.
A robin and starlings were recently rescued after becoming stuck in these inhumane devices.
Wildlife groups are calling for a ban on glue traps in Northern Ireland due to their cruelty.

Glue Traps Injure Irish Birds: A Cruel Reality

Wild birds are being caught and injured in glue-type traps, which are illegal in the Republic of Ireland but not in Northern Ireland. Recently, a robin and starlings were found stuck in these inhumane devices. The robin sustained injuries to its wing, while the starlings were heavily glued after entering vents where traps were placed.

Wildlife Rescue Cork has been rehabilitating injured birds, with the robin receiving pain relief and expected to recover for release. However, the starlings suffered feather damage. Experts emphasize the difficult balance between rodent control and wildlife protection, noting that these traps, despite being banned for general use in some areas, are still widely available.

While England and Scotland have restrictions on glue trap use, Northern Ireland currently has no limitations on their sale or application. Animal welfare organizations are campaigning for an outright ban in Northern Ireland, citing instances of harm to birds, hedgehogs, bats, and even domestic animals. Causing unnecessary suffering is an offense under Northern Ireland's wildlife laws.