Wildlife hospital issues alert to those who gets robins in garden

Robins are a sight to behold in gardens across the UK. For many, robins are a special sight as people believe they’re loved ones who have passed away, thanks to the old saying, ‘when a robin appears, loved ones are near’.

It can really cheer you up when you see a robin or two in your garden, but a wildlife hospital has urged people to take heed of their warning, as it could lead to a robin’s untimely death if you don’t.

South Essex Wildlife Hospital shared a devastating picture of a robin stuck in a glue trap, begging people to stop using them, especially as they’ve now been banned in Scotland.

“Yet another victim of the indiscriminate nature of glue traps…” they started their caption by writing.

For those not in the know, glue traps are a flat or enclosed tray coated with strong, non-drying adhesive designed to ensnare pests like mice, rats, and insects. They are cheap and widely available, but are highly controversial due to the severe animal suffering and welfare concerns they cause.

WARNING: The image below may be distressing to some readers…

They continued: “Despite their ban for public use several years ago, we are still seeing birds, reptiles and even foxes getting stuck to these horrific contraptions.

“This robin had tried so hard to escape that several of his feathers had been torn free, and he was so weak on arrival that we were not even sure he would survive the removal process…

“Luckily, the Eaze Off spray donated to us by Millpledge Veterinary makes removal a quick process, and we’re happy to say that he is now making great progress.

“Somehow, these traps are still available for public purchase, but PLEASE never use them. Nothing deserves to get trapped like this…”

In the heartbreaking picture, the robin was stuck to the glue trap, looking hopefully up at the people who, in the end, managed to rescue him.

Thankfully, in the comments, they posted a heartwarming update, and the robin managed to survive his horrific ordeal. He looked as though he had fewer feathers in the new picture, but at least he was alive.

In the comments, someone seethed: “Banned in Scotland, ban them everywhere.” A woman replied: “They’re supposed to be banned here in England too, but they’re easily purchased online.”

Millpledge Veterinary responded: “Stories like this are heartbreaking, but we’re incredibly grateful to the team at South Essex Wildlife Hospital for the care and dedication they show every day. We’re proud that Eaze-Off could play a small part in helping this robin on the road to recovery. Here’s hoping for a full recovery and a future free from these indiscriminate traps.”

An animal lover pointed out: “Also, sticky fly papers in stables are death traps…especially to swallows…”

“Poor love. Thank you for helping him. Why on Earth are these evil things still for sale?” somebody questioned.

Another person shared: “The best solution for rats/mice is to block every single possible entry point. Not with overpriced metal sponges, etc., but proper seals. Cement filler, aluminium plates, etc. If they can’t get in, they are of zero harm (well, almost). Keep waste controlled properly (bins closed, no loose bags, etc).”