Abstract: A trap is disclosed in which first and second co-acting jaws are provided for pivotally engaging a member of a captured animal, wherein the first and second jaws are configured for pivotal displacement between an opened position and a closed position. Levers are loaded with a biasing force for loading the first and second jaws into the closed position. A retaining arrangement is provided for retaining the first jaw in the opened position, wherein the retaining arrangement releases the loaded first and second jaws upon actuation. A leveling structure is used for providing first and second contact surfaces for the at least one lever so as to provide level contact surfaces for the respective first and second jaws.