Abstract: A spring biased trap includes two light sources (60 and 62) and two light sensors (61 and 63) acting together to detect the position of the small animal to be trapped. A baited trapping chamber restricts the animal's entrance orientation and also contains a spring biased bail (30) that is horizontally pivoted about midway between the roof (20) and base (21) and near the partition (24). The bail (30) is restrained or released by a release device (40). A solenoid armature (72) holds the P-shaped rod in the held position which holds the release device (40) in the retained position until the solenoid (70) is energized. A cocking yoke (50) is used for unloading and resetting the trap easily and safely. A daylight sensor (64) protects birds by disabling the trap during the daylight hours. A light source (65) and a sensor (66) detect that the trap has tripped and sends a signal to the user that the trap needs attention.