Wildlife rescuers are warning the public that glue traps for rats can be lethal for birds.
The Burnaby-based Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C. recently took in two birds caught in a glue trap, and while one survived, the other succumbed to its injuries.
"I have seen chickadees, hummingbirds, bats and even crows stuck on these traps, and it is awful. The traps are cheap, and you can buy them at any dollar store, and people don't realize how lethal they are until it is too late," said the association's Crystal Simmons.
The traps are for insects, rats and mice, but according to the association, they can catch other species - such as bats, songbirds and hummingbirds - and cause unnecessary suffering.
The association recommends bringing birds stuck to glue traps into the centre, still attached to the trap, in a box with air holes. Removing the animal from the trap can cause further damage and create extra stress. The wildlife rescuers have a special solvent to detach the bird from the glue while causing the least amount of damage.
For more information, call the wildlife helpline at 604-526-7275.
