Stoats and weasels are Britain's smallest mustelids, playing important roles as predators. Their welfare in the wild and in management contexts deserves attention.
Stoat and weasel welfare in management contexts is primarily determined by trap type and maintenance. Poorly set or maintained spring traps cause prolonged suffering rather than instantaneous death. The Spring Trap Approval Order sets minimum standards but does not guarantee that approved traps perform optimally in all field conditions. Welfare-conscious game and conservation management uses the most humane approved traps, checks them at maximum permitted intervals, and monitors for non-target catches. Stoats in particular may be vulnerable to trapping pressure in areas where they are heavily controlled for gamebird protection.