Abstract: A pair of oppositely disposed jaws are pivotally movable between open and closed positions, a spring means on the jaws bias the jaws to a normally closed position and a trigger positioned between the jaws releasably hold the jaws in an open position, the trigger being slideably and partially rotable with respect to the pivotal axis of the jaws. The trigger assembly is so constructed to induce the animal to come further into the trap and when released by an animal cause the animal to fall towards and into the trap jaws rather than away from them.