The 'block-trap'

Of all traps that are designed to kill mice or rats, the so-called block-trap is probably one of the oldest examples. The mechanism is very simple: a heavy block (usually of wood) is connected with a tripping-mechanism through a cord. When the animal eats from the bait, the trap is tripped and the block falls down, crushing the animal. Block-traps exist in a wide variety. Big for rats, small for mice, single or two to five blocks united in device. Block-traps originating from West, North and Eastern Europe usually have the same shape and setting mechanism.