Thank you to columnist Blane Klemek for sharing fascinating facts about shrews ("Shrews are intriguing Minnesota mammals, Feb. 17). However, we hope he'll consider more humane ways of evicting this "resourceful little rascal" from his home than using a glue trap.
Besides being cruel, glue traps don't solve the problem. New animals will move in to fill the newly formed vacancy unless their mode of access and/or whatever is attracting them is removed. What glue traps do accomplish is causing animals to suffer for days, pulling out skin and hair and chewing off their limbs as they struggle in vain to free themselves. Eventually, they die of dehydration and starvation.
To effectively prevent small-animal invasions, seal holes larger than 0.25 inch in diameter, cracks in the walls and floors, and spaces around doors, windows, and plumbing. Keep all food and garbage in well-sealed containers that rodents can't chew through.
Stephanie Bell
Senior Cruelty Caseworker
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Emergency Response Team
Cruelty Investigations Department
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Norfolk, Va.
