Urban Animals

Humane Pest Control Methods

Most conventional pest control methods cause prolonged suffering for target animals, and humane alternatives are available and often more effective.

Key Facts

Glue traps are considered among the most inhumane pest control devices in existence
Rodenticide poisoning causes internal bleeding and death over several days
Secondary poisoning kills raptors and carnivores that eat poisoned rodents
Exclusion and habitat modification prevent reinfestation more effectively than lethal methods
Integrated pest management reduces chemical use by up to 90% in many settings

Welfare Considerations

Pest animals are among the least welfare-protected animals in law and practice. Glue traps capture animals that then die of dehydration, exhaustion, or self-injury over hours or days. Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides bioaccumulate up food chains, killing owls, foxes, and eagles. Humane alternatives — exclusion, live traps, habitat modification — are available and often outperform lethal methods in durability.

What You Can Do

Never use glue traps, which cause prolonged suffering
Choose snap traps checked at least daily over glue or poison methods
Implement exclusion (sealing entry points) as the primary pest management strategy
Advocate against rodenticide use near wildlife habitats and food chains