A new law which bans the use of glue traps by the general public in England comes into force today, and has been welcomed by the RSPCA.

Glue traps, also known as 'glue boards' or 'sticky boards', consist of a sheet of plastic, cardboard or wood coated with non-drying adhesive designed to trap rodents such as mice and rats as they cross the board.

But these devices are indiscriminate, catching everything from birds to cats.

The animal welfare charity has been campaigning - alongside the public - for many years, to outlaw glue traps, which it believes risk causing animals pain, distress and severe suffering.

But with the Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022 in force from today (31 July), England is set to be a "safer place" for animals. 

RSPCA Scientific Officer Rebecca Machin said: "Glue traps are vicious and indiscriminate, so we warmly welcome this ban which will help make England a safer place for animals.

"Though designed to catch rodents, we also see non-target animals - from birds to cats - getting stuck on the powerful glue and as they struggle to free themselves, they often suffer terrible injuries and die. But all animals should be treated with kindness and respect, and there are other, more humane methods available such as humane deterrence.

"RSPCA officers are repeatedly left shocked and horrified by the lethal damage wrought on wildlife, pets and other animals by these awful traps. In just the past month, we've had reports of a magpie, and some squirrels being caught - highlighting why we need this ban."

But while the new law will prevent their use by the public, 'pest control' contractors will still be allowed to use them under licence, under certain circumstances..

Rebecca added: "The glue trap legislation is a really positive step in the right direction, though we will continue to campaign until these devices are completely stamped out with a blanket ban on use not only for the general public but for contractors too.

"We hope the new UK Government will now build on this positive step with further policies to help animals."

The use of glue traps has already been similarly restricted in Wales since October 2023 under the Agriculture (Wales) Act.