This Order varies the Spring Traps Approval Order 1995 (“the 1995 Order”) in relation to England only.

Under section 8 of the Pests Act 1954 (c. 68), it is an offence to use or knowingly to permit the use of any spring trap, other than a trap that has been approved by Order, for animals or in circumstances for which it is not approved. The 1995 Order approves types of spring trap for use in England and Wales, or (in some cases) for use in England only.

This Order adds four types of spring trap to those approved for use in England: the Nooski mouse trap, the Skinns Superior Squirrel Trap, the WCS Collarum and the WCS Tube Trap (article 2(c) and (d)). It also adds to the target species against which two of the traps previously approved (for use in England) may be used: the DOC 200 trap may now also be used for mink (article 2(a)), and the DOC 250 trap may now also be used for mink and rabbits (article 2(b)).

An impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as it has no impact on the costs of business or the voluntary sector.