A wildlife hospital has shared a heartbreaking alert for households who have robins visiting their gardens after a devastating image was shared to raise awareness16:51, 03 Jul 2026Robins are a truly wonderful sight in gardens up and down the UK. For many, spotting one holds a special significance, as people believe they represent loved ones who have passed on, thanks to the well-known saying, 'when a robin appears, loved ones are near'.‌Catching a glimpse of a robin or two in your garden can genuinely lift your spirits, but a wildlife hospital is now urging people to heed an important warning — one that could spare these beloved birds from an untimely death. South Essex Wildlife Hospital shared a heartbreaking image of a robin trapped on a glue trap, pleading with the public to stop using them, particularly given they have already been banned in Scotland.‌"Yet another victim of the indiscriminate nature of glue traps..." they began their caption.‌For those unfamiliar, glue traps are flat or enclosed trays coated with a powerful, non-drying adhesive, designed to catch pests such as mice, rats, and insects.While cheap and readily available, they are deeply controversial due to the serious suffering and welfare issues they cause to animals.WARNING: The image below may be distressing to some readers...‌They went on: "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 gut-wrenching photograph, the robin was stuck fast to the glue trap, gazing hopefully up at the rescuers who ultimately managed to free him.‌Thankfully, those following the story were treated to an uplifting update in the comments, confirming that the robin had pulled through his harrowing ordeal. He appeared to have lost some feathers in the follow-up photo, but crucially, he had survived.One commenter fumed: "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."One animal lover noted: "Also, sticky fly papers in stables are death traps...especially to swallows."Article continues below"Poor love. Thank you for helping him. Why on Earth are these evil things still for sale?" somebody questioned.Another reader commented: "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)."