The trap (42, 82) is based around a spring mechanism (24, 60) comprising a substantially rectangular sheet of spring material folded to be substantially C-shaped in cross-section. In one embodiment (FIG. 6), portions (64, 65) of the spring mechanism (60) are adapted to be killing surfaces. In another embodiment (FIG. 2), the spring mechanism (24) is provided with arms (28, 29) that support jaws (36, 37). A setting mechanism (53/54, 77) holds the spring mechanism (24, 60) in an armed position and the trap (42, 82) is triggered when a trigger mechanism (49, 75) is moved by an animal which in turn disengages the setting mechanism (53/54, 77) and allows the killing surfaces (portions 64, 65) or jaws (36, 37) to come together on the animal therebetween.
