The newer rat snap traps, the black plastic ones with interlocking teeth, are very effective in doing what they are intended to do - killing rats.

But, when placed outdoors, uncovered, or in open crawlspaces, these traps pose a serious threat to other animals - wild birds, opossums, raccoons, skunks, fox, dogs and cats - even deer.

The number of non-target animals injured or killed by these traps has increased significantly in recent years.

We've contacted the makers of these traps, Bell Laboratories and Scotts Miracle-Gro, asking them to:

 - Add a distinct warning label to retail packaging.

- Include safety precautions specific to wildlife, pets and children in:

• marketing sell sheets
• wherever instructions for consumers are advertised
• in training material for industry professionals

See sample labeling and language HERE.

We are very pleased with the response from Bell Laboratories.

Bell Labs produces snap traps for the professional market. As of March 22, they made changes to the product's web page and sell sheet, clarifying non-target exposure and how it can be prevented. See the changes, HERE.

Please, sign this petition asking Scotts Miracle-Gro to add warning labels and precautionary statements regarding risk to non-target animals to their product's packaging and promotional material.

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BACKGROUND

On September 16, 2014, in response to an increased number of animals injured or killed in these types of traps, Wildlife Emergency Services contacted the original manufacturer, Bell Laboratories, asking them to consider adding warning labels to help reduce the number of non-target wildlife injuries. They responded by saying they would look into it.

That same year, Scotts Miracle-Gro acquired Tomcat, the consumer brand of rodent traps manufactured by Bell Labs.

As time went on, more and more animals were being found caught in these spring-loaded traps, including wild birds, like this white crowned sparrow that suffered two broken legs in a trap.

Even large animals are at risk. In 2015, a deer was found with one of these traps on its muzzle, preventing it from eating. See the news coverage, HERE.

Most wild mammal species are protected by state and federal regulations. Most wild birds are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits the take - the injuring or killing of any migratory bird.

Under the Endangered Species Act, unauthorized take of any listed bird or mammal can result in a violation of the ESA with fines reaching up to $50,000 per take. ESA also contains a citizen suit provision, allowing the public to initiate litigation to address alleged violations of the Act.

It would seem, then, once aware of the issue, failure of a company to take action to reduce the likelihood of death or injury to protected species from misuse of its product(s) could result in violations for which the manufacturer, distributor, retailer or even the consumer could be held responsible. 

Please, help put pressure on Scotts Miracle-Gro to take responsibility and help protect our children, wildlife and pets.

VIDEOS:

Growing Number Of Skunks Caught In Rat Traps - CBS News​

Young Skunk v T-Rex Rat Trap​

Another Skunk In A Rat Trap​

Again A Skunk In A Snap Trap​

Skunk's Paw Severed By Snap Trap​

Skunk Caught In COVERED Rat Trap​

Baby Skunk Caught In A Rat Trap