In an exciting new development, on October 14th the Austin Animal Advisory Commission (AAC) voted in support of banning the use of glue traps in City and County operations. Travis Audubon applauds this decision, and the Murmurations blog recently featured a post explaining the harm glue traps can inflict on birds. Now, you can help by contacting your Austin City Council member and/or your Travis County Commissioner to voice your support and ask for their help advancing the AAC’s recommendation.
Glue traps are intended to kill rats, mice, and insects by using a sticky adhesive on flat boards. But in real life, glue traps are indiscriminate. Any animal that encounters one, including wild birds, will likely suffer a prolonged and painful death. The Wildlife Center of Virginia maintains the WILD-One database, which has documented 179 species of wildlife caught on glue traps, including approximately 100 species of wild birds which are protected from being killed by the Migratory Bird Act. On social media, Texas wildlife rehabilitators have shared moving stories of birds ensnared in glue traps and urged the public to choose humane options instead. In addition to being cruel, glue traps are also advised against by the CDC, as the animals who become stuck produce urine and feces that may transmit disease. By adopting a policy against using glue traps in City and County options, our community can make a positive impact on birds, bats and other wild animals.
Please use the links below to identify your City Council member and County Commissioner, then reach out by e-mail or phone to voice your support. Together, we can show our community’s commitment to making Austin a more bird-friendly city!
City of Austin:
Travis County:
Article compiled by Krissy Dunn. Photo by Connor Teseny.
