Abstract: A spring operated animal trap in which the bail or striker is held against spring tension by a striker hold down bar engaging a trigger member. A bait holder connected to the trigger may be surface coated with an adhesive so that after the animal touches the adhesive, movement will actuate the trigger and spring the trap before the animal can free itself. A unique tilting trigger mechanism is disclosed in which the bait holder and trigger are arranged to pivot about a horizontal axis above the base. The axis being parallel to the hold down bar, with tilting of the bait holder to either side springing the trap.