trapandrelease

Trap and release, sometimes written trap‑and‑release, is a wildlife and pest management approach in which animals are captured using humane traps, assessed or treated if needed, and then released back into their original habitat or relocated to a different location. The goal is to manage conflicts with humans or to reduce local population pressures without resorting to euthanasia.

Commonly employed for feral or nuisance species such as cats, raccoons, foxes, and certain urban wildlife, trap‑and‑release programs emphasize humane handling, veterinary checks, and monitoring. For domestic or community welfare programs involving cats, the practice is often combined with sterilization, vaccination, and ear tipping in what is known as trap‑neuter‑return or TNR.

Relocation to another area is practiced in some jurisdictions but is controversial. Relocating animals can disrupt social structures, expose them to unfamiliar predators or competitors, and spread disease. Survival rates after relocation are frequently poor, and many programs restrict relocation to defined habitats or geographic regions, with some places banning it altogether.

Effectiveness of trap and release varies by species and context. Proponents view it as a nonlethal tool that reduces human–wildlife conflicts when integrated with post‑release monitoring, vaccination, and habitat modification. Critics point to risks of disease transmission, ecological disruption, and limited long‑term population reduction. Regulatory frameworks and ethical guidelines often shape how and where the practice is used.

Trap and release is one option within broader wildlife management strategies and is distinguished from euthanasia and from relocation‑based programs that do not address the animal's welfare or ecological impact through sterilization and monitoring.