Abstract: An animal trap comprises a base member with two jaws pivotally connected thereto. Rings extend slidably about adjacent side members of the jaws and springs bias the rings away from the base member and towards end members of the jaws to move the jaws from a horizontal, open position to a vertical, closed position. A bell crank is pivotally connected to the base member and has an upwardly moveable portion where bait is secured. An elongate rod is pivotally connected to the bell crank at one end and engages one of the side members at a second end, when the jaws are horizontal, to maintain the trap in the open position. When an animal tugs on the bait, the rod disengages from the one side member and the trap closes to trap the head of the animal.