The Victoria State Government is set to be the first state to outlaw the traps because of the injury, suffering and distress they cause rodents and other small animals.
A regulatory impact statement released this week has said the animals not only suffer extreme stress when stuck, but also prolonged deaths from dehydration, exposure, starvation, suffocation or attack by predators. Animals also die from injuries or blood loss when they try to chew through their own limbs in an attempt to escape.
Agriculture Minister Bob Cameron has invited public comment on the proposed regulations until August 26.
The Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association said they opposed a ban because the benefits of the traps to society in rodent control outweighed animal welfare issues.
Source: Herald Sun