Kitten 'Forrest Gump' Rescued from Illegal Glue Trap in Birmingham Flytipping Incident
A young kitten named Forrest Gump has been rescued after being found trapped on an illegal glue board among flytipped waste in Birmingham. The seven to nine-week-old cat was discovered by a member of the public in a distressing state, stuck to the adhesive device designed for rodents.
RSPCA Intervention and Rescue Operation
RSPCA inspector Laura Brewerton responded to the call and rescued the kitten from the dumped rubbish. The animal was immediately transported to the RSPCA Birmingham Animal Hospital in Frankley for urgent medical attention.
Veterinary staff carefully removed the remains of the glue trap before clipping, cleaning, and treating the kitten for an eye infection. The young cat was also neutered as part of his recovery process.
The Cruel Reality of Glue Traps
Glue traps, also known as glue boards or sticky boards, consist of sheets coated with non-drying adhesive intended to capture rodents like mice and rats. However, these devices are indiscriminate according to the RSPCA, frequently trapping unintended victims including birds and domestic animals like cats.
"Glue traps are cruel and indiscriminate and that's why it's now illegal for the public to use them," said Craig Osborne, manager of the RSPCA Birmingham Animal Hospital.
Osborne explained the horrific consequences for trapped animals: "When animals come into contact with the glue board they get stuck by their feet, or like with Forrest Gump, by their body. They are then unable to free themselves and other parts of their body then become stuck, further entrapping them."
Legal Status and Ongoing Campaigns
The Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022 came into force in England in July 2024, making it illegal for the public to use these devices. Wales had already restricted their use since October 2023 under the Agriculture (Wales) Act.
Despite this legislation, glue traps remain legal for sale to the public, creating what the RSPCA calls a dangerous loophole. Professional pest controllers can apply for licenses to use glue traps, but only under specific, regulated circumstances.
The RSPCA has campaigned for years to outlaw these devices entirely, citing the immense suffering they cause. Animals trapped on glue boards often:
- Rip out fur or feathers trying to escape
- Break bones during struggle
- Gnaw through their own limbs in desperation
- Become covered in their own waste
- Die slowly from dehydration, starvation, or exhaustion if left unattended
Public Action and Reporting
The RSPCA is urging the public to report any sightings of glue traps being sold in stores. They request that concerned citizens email wildlife@rspca.org.uk with the following information:
- Name and address of the store (including postcode where possible)
- The name of the manager or owner (if known)
- The date the traps were seen on sale
Thankfully, Forrest Gump has made a full recovery and will soon be placed in a new, loving home. His rescue serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against cruel trapping methods and illegal flytipping practices in Birmingham and across the country.
