An electrical trap for the control of cockroaches.

A i2 inch square plastic bowl some 5 inches deep with sloping ramps has three strands of t inch copper tube fitted around the inside surface, the upper band about 1 inch below the rim, and each 1/16 inch apart A low voltage of 12 to 25 volts is applied to the tapes from a mains transformer or battery. Small animals are attracted up the ramps and into the bowl by a suitable bait; as they cross the tapes they are subjected to, a small electrical shock and fall into the bowl. In attempting to escape after feeding, they receive a further shock when they touch the tapes and are retained in the bowl. The catch can he killed at intervals by immersion in alcohol or by poisoning the bait.