Rock Wren and Cactus Wren
Recently, these two wrens (Rock Wren and Cactus Wren) found themselves in sticky situations as they wandered onto glue traps, unable to escape. Luckily, both were discovered (in different locations) and brought to Tucson Wildlife Center. Upon arrival, TWC’s wildlife care team was able to manage the stress of the birds while carefully removing them from the glue trap’s sticky substance without causing any further damage to their feathers or body. Unfortunately, they had been struggling to free themselves for a while, so most of their tail feathers had been pulled out. But we are happy to report that, in time, the feathers will re-grow, and they will be released back into the wild.
Other animals may not find themselves as lucky. Glue traps might seem like a safe and easy solution to pest problems, but they are one of the cruelest. These super-sticky boards catch everything that comes in contact with them, including non-target wildlife and pets. Most animals caught this way, even if rescued, suffer significant trauma and injury. And for intended targets like rodents, glue traps make for an inhumane, painful, and slow death as the animal typically dies of suffocation or dehydration and exhaustion as it struggles to escape. Some will even bite through their limbs to free themselves.
Instead of glue traps, TWC recommends using safe and humane devices such as Havahart catch-and-release traps. For tips on using live traps, visit TWC’s website at https://tucsonwildlife.com/rescue-faq/ (How can I trap and release an animal humanely?).
If you find an animal that has been caught by a glue trap, do not attempt to remove the animal from the trap yourself. Removing an animal from these traps is a delicate procedure and can easily cause more injury. For the best chance of the animal’s survival, call Tucson Wildlife Center. Medical treatment is almost always needed once the animal is free of the trap. If you would like to help patients like these wrens, click this link to donate:
Another way you can contribute is to visit our “wish list” on Amazon by clicking on the Amazon Wish List button below. We appreciate it, as will all the wild animals in our care!
Show your support with a minimum $25 donation and we’ll send you a “KEEP TUCSON WILD” sticker. Click the bumper sticker to donate.
