Target: Emma Reynolds, UK Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Goal: Enforce strict penalties against the illegal use of glue traps that cause unnecessary suffering and death to wildlife.
The recent use of glue traps in the United Kingdom has resulted in the tragic deaths of innocent animals, including a robin that suffered greatly before succumbing to injuries. This heartbreaking incident occurred despite changes in the law designed to prevent such cruelty, which prohibit the use of glue traps by the public without a pest control license. Shockingly, these traps remain available for public purchase, allowing their continued use that devastates wildlife, as noted by the East Winch Wildlife Centre.
Glue traps cause not only immediate harm but also long-term suffering for animals caught in them. For instance, when birds or small mammals become ensnared, they often suffer severe feather damage and injuries that prevent their survival even if they are eventually freed. The proliferation of these traps poses a significant threat to wildlife populations, already under stress from habitat loss and other environmental issues, as thousands are sold to unsuspecting consumers. The glue remains sticky for extended periods, further increasing the likelihood of unintentional captures.
The petition demands that stronger measures be taken against those who disregard the law by misusing glue traps. The existing penalties of up to six months in prison and an unlimited fine must be reinforced, and public awareness campaigns should be developed to educate on the humane alternatives and the severe impacts of glue traps on wildlife. Immediate action against this cruelty is crucial to prevent further suffering and loss of life among innocent animals.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Reynolds,
Recent reports have highlighted a distressing situation in which the illegal use of glue traps has led to the tragic deaths of wildlife, including a robin that suffered before succumbing to its injuries. This deeply disturbing incident sheds light on a larger issue regarding the availability and usage of these traps, which remain on store shelves despite legal prohibitions against their public use without a pest control license. The suffering caused by these traps is unacceptable, and immediate action is needed to address the situation.
The wildlife fatalities caused by glue traps, as pointed out by wildlife rescue organizations, indicate a concerning trend. Animals caught in these traps endure severe injuries, often rendering them incapable of surviving in the wild. With thousands of these traps readily accessible to consumers, the potential for unintended captures of songbirds and other wildlife remains alarmingly high. It is evident that these traps not only cause unnecessary suffering but also threaten the delicate balance of our wildlife populations.
It is imperative that swift actions be taken to enforce and strengthen penalties against the illegal use of glue traps. The existing law allows for up to six months in prison and unlimited fines for offenders, but these measures must be reinforced with public awareness initiatives to discourage the purchase and use of glue traps. The welfare of our wildlife must be prioritized, and this change is crucial for the prevention of further suffering.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
