Abstract: A small animal trap has a base. The first end of the base has a horizontal support bar and a pair of loops. A trapping spring has a first beam coupled between the loops of the base, a second beam with a fixed end and a free end, and a coil continuous with the first beam and the fixed end of the second beam and coupled to the second end of the bar. In an active state the trapping spring is compressed and when expanded it is at rest. A retention device coupled to the loop includes an activation fork with a hoop end and a pronged end and also includes a retention pin. The hoop end is adapted to hold the retention pin with the free end of the second beam and the pronged end extending into the loops.

Abstract: A small animal trap has a base. The first end of the base has a horizontal support bar and a pair of loops. A trapping spring has a first beam coupled between the loops of the base, a second beam with a fixed end and a free end, and a coil continuous with the first beam and the fixed end of the second beam and coupled to the second end of the bar. In an active state the trapping spring is compressed and when expanded it is at rest. A retention device coupled to the loop includes an activation fork with a hoop end and a pronged end and also includes a retention pin. The hoop end is adapted to hold the retention pin with the free end of the second beam and the pronged end extending into the loops.