Varmint control device

A device for trapping a rodent includes one or more of a floor, walls connected to the floor, an aperture in at least one of the walls, and a platform positioned within the container. The platform is positioned adjacent to the aperture and elevated above the floor. An adhesive is positioned on the floor. The aperture is sized to permit a rodent to gain access to the platform.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to the field of controlling varmints, and in an embodiment, but not by way of limitation, a device for trapping mice, rats, insects, and other varmints.

BACKGROUND

A purpose of the United States Patent Law and System is to encourage and reward inventors for advancing technology and improving the lives of others by conceiving and disclosing to the public new and useful products. The desire of inventors to improve the lives of others through their innovations has in the past been generally described as the quest to build a better mousetrap. The current disclosure, in an embodiment, literally relates to the building of that better mousetrap.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of different embodiments of the present invention. It will be evident, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without all of the specific details and/or with variations, permutations, and combinations of the various features and elements described herein.

FIG. 1illustrates an embodiment of a device100for trapping a varmint. As with other embodiments disclosed herein, such a varmint can be a mouse, a rat, a chipmunk, insects, and other varmints. The device100ofFIG. 1includes a housing110, The housing110can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. If opaque, the housing can include a window118so that the contents of the device can be seen. The housing110inFIG. 1is drawn in a dotted line format to indicate that while the housing110can be opaque, it is illustrated inFIG. 1in a transparent manner such that the contents of the housing110can be seen. The housing includes four walls112,112A,112B, and112C, which are attached to a base level111. An embodiment includes a ceiling117that is attached to the walls112,112A,112B, and112C. Depending on the embodiment, the ceiling can be about 6 inches above the base level111. The ceiling117can be a simple covering, similar to the top of an ordinary shoe box, that can be removed to permit the removal and/or replacement of the contents of the device. The ceiling117can also be attached to one of the walls112,112A,112B, or112C in a hinged manner (160) to permit the raising of the ceiling117to expose the contents inside the device100. In another embodiment, there is no ceiling and the top of the housing is simply open leaving the inside and contents of the device100accessible. Alternatively, one of the walls112,112A,112B, or112C can be removably attachable, by hinges or other means, to permit access to the contents inside of the device100. The walls can be vertical, substantially vertical, or angled. Similarly, the ceiling can be horizontal, substantially horizontal, or angled.

The housing110includes an opening or aperture115. In an embodiment, the housing110can include a second opening115A. The openings115,115A are sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the openings115,115A can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing110, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice. As illustrated inFIG. 1, the opening115is elevated from the base level111of the housing110. Depending on the embodiment, the opening115can be positioned from one to three inches or more above the base level111. As further can be seen inFIG. 1, the opening115is positioned distant from the wall112of the housing. Depending on the embodiment, the distance from the opening115to the wall112can be from three to six inches or more. A ramp120is positioned adjacent to the opening115in the housing, the ramp extending from a point114that is even with the base level111of the housing and distant from the wall112A, through to the opening115A in the wall112B of the housing, and through the opening115A to a point114A that is distant from the wall112B and even with the base level111. Depending on the embodiment, these distances from points114,114A to the base level111can be from three to six inches or more. An adhesive130is positioned on the base level111of the housing110. The adhesive can be directly applied to the base level111, or can be contained within a tray or other container131. The tray131can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store. In embodiments that include a ceiling on the housing, the ceiling prevents dirt and dust from settling on the adhesive, which decreases the stickiness of the adhesive and denigrates the trapping effectiveness of the adhesive. In an embodiment, the device100does not include the ramp120.

The device100can further include an area140for containing bait to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The area can be delineated by a marking141on the wall112(or on the adhesive130or the container131). In an embodiment, the area140includes a small container142which serves to help contain the bait in the area. In an embodiment, the housing110can include a plurality of apertures150so that the scent of the bait can exude out of the device100and attract a varmint to the device and into the device.

In the embodiment ofFIG. 1, as with other embodiments disclosed herein, the device is placed in an area wherein rodents or other varmints are known to frequent. When encountering the device100, the rodent climbs up the ramp120and enters the housing110of the device100. Upon entering the housing, the rodent further senses the bait in the area140that is distant from the ramp. Because the bait is distant from the ramp and at a lower level than the ramp, the rodent must jump down, drop down, or otherwise lower itself down to the level of the bait. This lowering of itself by the rodent causes a force to be applied by the rodent onto the adhesive130, such that the rodent is forcibly trapped in the adhesive130. This force causes a more secure trapping of the rodent as compared to prior uses of such glue traps wherein a rodent could with little force merely step on or otherwise touch the glue trap and not even become stuck therein (or simply walk around the glue trap to avoid capture). This force exerted on the adhesive by the rodent is particular useful in a colder environment when the adhesive is not as soft and sticky.

FIG. 2Aillustrates another embodiment of a device200to trap or capture a rodent or other varmint. The device200ofFIG. 2Aincludes a housing210. The housing210can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. If opaque, the housing can include a window218so that the contents of the device can be seen. The housing210inFIG. 2Ais drawn in a dotted line format to indicate that while the housing210can be opaque, it is illustrated inFIG. 2Ain a transparent manner such that the contents of the housing210can be seen. The housing includes four walls212,212A,212B, and212C, which are attached to a base level211. An embodiment includes a ceiling217that is attached to the walls212,212A,212B, and212C. Depending on the embodiment, the ceiling can be about six inches above the base level211. The ceiling217can be a simple covering, similar to a top of an ordinary shoe box, that can be removed to permit the removal and/or replacement of the contents of the device. The ceiling217can also be attached to one of the walls212,212A,212B, or212C in a hinged manner to permit the raising of the ceiling217to expose the contents inside the device200. In another embodiment, there is no ceiling and the top of the housing is simply open leaving the inside and contents of the device200accessible. Alternatively, one of the walls212,212A,212B, or212C can be removably attachable, by hinges or other means, to permit access to the contents inside of the device200.

The housing210includes an opening or aperture215. In an embodiment, the housing210can include a second opening215A. The openings215,215A are sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the openings215,215A can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing210, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice. As illustrated inFIG. 2A, the opening215is positioned at the base level211of the housing210. As further can be seen inFIG. 2A, the opening215is positioned distant from the wall212of the housing. Depending on the embodiment, the distance from the opening215to the wall212can be from three to six inches or more. A ramp220is positioned adjacent to the opening215in the housing. From the opening215, the ramp220slopes up to a horizontal level221upon which a platform222can be attached, and then slopes down to the second opening215A. An adhesive230is positioned on the base level211of the housing220. The adhesive can be directly applied to the base level211, or can be contained within a tray or other container231. The tray231can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store. In an embodiment, substantially vertical walls223,223A can be placed adjacent the sloping portions of the ramp. Walls223,223A prevent the rodent from simply stepping onto the adhesive230, and indeed force the rodent to the elevated platform in222so that the rodent is forced to fall onto, jump onto, or otherwise impact the adhesive230with some force.

The device200can further include an area240for containing bait to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The area240can be delineated by a marking241on the wall212(or on the adhesive230or the container231). In an embodiment, the area240includes a small container242which serves to help contain the bait in the area240.

FIG. 2Billustrates another embodiment of a varmint control device. The embodiment ofFIG. 2Bis substantially similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 2A. One difference between the embodiments ofFIGS. 2A and 2Bis that the embodiment ofFIG. 2Bincludes an opening248that is located in the wall212C. The opening248provides access to a compartment that is formed by the wall212C, the ramp220,221, the platform222, and the interior walls223and223A. This compartment can be used for the placement of a rodenticide, such that a varmint can enter the compartment via the opening248, ingest the rodenticide, and thereafter perish from the ingestion.

FIG. 3illustrates another embodiment of a device300for trapping a varmint. The device300ofFIG. 3includes a housing310. The housing310can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. If opaque, the housing can include a window318so that the contents of the device can be seen. The housing310inFIG. 3is drawn in a dotted line format to indicate that while the housing310can be opaque, it is illustrated inFIG. 3in a transparent manner such that the contents of the housing310can be seen. The housing includes four walls312,312A,312B, and312C, which are attached to a base level311. An embodiment includes a ceiling317that is attached to the walls312,312A,312B, and312C. Depending on the embodiment, the ceiling317can be about six inches above the base level311. The ceiling317can be a simple covering, similar to a top of an ordinary shoe box, that can be removed to permit the removal and/or replacement of the contents of the device. The ceiling317can also be attached to one of the walls312,312A,312B, or312C in a hinged manner to permit the raising of the ceiling317to expose the contents inside the device300. In another embodiment, there is no ceiling and the top of the housing is simply open leaving the inside and contents of the device300accessible. Alternatively, one of the walls312,312A,312B, or312C can be removably attachable, by hinges or other means, to permit access to the contents inside of the device300.

The housing310includes an opening or aperture315. In an embodiment, the housing310can include a second opening315A. The openings315,315A are sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the openings315,315A can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing310, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice. As illustrated inFIG. 3, the opening315is positioned at the base level311of the housing310. A ramp320is positioned adjacent to the opening315in the housing. The ramp320slopes up from the base level311of the housing such that an end322of the ramp320opposite the opening315is elevated from the base level311of the housing. An adhesive330is positioned on the base level311of the housing310. The adhesive can be directly applied to the base level311, or can be contained within a tray or other container331. The tray331can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store.

The device300can further include an area340for containing bait to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The area can be delineated by a marking341on the wall312(or on the adhesive330or the container331). In an embodiment, the area340includes a small container342which serves to help contain the bait in the area340. As with other embodiments, the elevation of the ramp end322above the adhesive330, and the distance of the bait in area340from the end of the ramp322, causes the rodent to have to jump onto, fall onto, or otherwise forcibly contact the adhesive330such that the rodent is more securely trapped in the adhesive as compared to merely stepping on the adhesive.

FIG. 4illustrates another embodiment of a device400for trapping a varmint. The device400ofFIG. 4includes a housing410. The housing410can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. If opaque, the housing can include a window418so that the contents of the device can be seen. The housing410includes a base411, a first substantially vertical wall412coupled to the base411, a second substantially vertical wall412A coupled to the base411, a third substantially vertical wall412B coupled to the base411, and an angled wall413coupled to the base411, the first substantially vertical wall412, the second substantially vertical wall412A, and the third substantially vertical wall4129. An opening415is positioned in the angled wall such that the opening is elevated above the base411. In another embodiment, the opening415is positioned in wall412, wall412A, or wall4129. Depending on the embodiment, the opening can be about three to six inches or more above the base level411. The opening415is sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the opening415can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing410, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice.

An adhesive430is positioned on the base level411of the housing410. The adhesive can be directly applied to the base level411, or can be contained within a tray or other container431. The tray431can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store.

The device400can further include an area440for containing bait to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The area can be delineated by a marking441on the adhesive430or the tray or container431. In an embodiment, the area440includes a small container442which serves to help contain the bait in the area. In the embodiment ofFIG. 4, the rodent or other varmint peers into the device400via the opening415. The rodent is then attracted to the bait in area440, and because of the height of the opening415above the bait and adhesive430, has to jump or fall down to the bait, and then becomes forcibly stuck in the adhesive430.

FIG. 5illustrates another embodiment of a device500for trapping a varmint. The device500ofFIG. 5includes a housing510. The housing510can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. If opaque, the housing can include a window518so that the contents of the device can be seen. The housing includes four walls512,512A,512B, and512C, which are attached to a base level511. In an embodiment, the wall512A can be made of a transparent material so that the contents of the housing510can easily be seen.

The housing510includes an opening or aperture515. In an embodiment, the housing510can include a second opening515A. The openings515,515A are sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the openings515,515A can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing510, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice. As illustrated inFIG. 5, the opening515is elevated from the base level511of the housing510. Depending on the embodiment, the opening515can be positioned from three to six or more inches above the base level511. Indentations or protrusions545can be placed on the wall512of the housing such that a varmint can more easily scale the wall512to gain access to the opening515. As further can be seen inFIG. 5, the opening515is positioned distant from the wall512A of the housing. Depending on the embodiment, the distance from the opening515to the wall512A can be from three to six or more inches. A platform522is positioned adjacent to the openings515,515A in the housing. In another embodiment, the platform522is not present. An adhesive530is positioned on the base level511of the housing510. The adhesive can be directly applied to the base level511, or can be contained within a tray or other container531. The tray531can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store.

The device500can further include an area540for containing bait to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The area can be delineated by a marking541on the wall512A (or on the adhesive530or the container531). In an embodiment, the area540includes a small container542which serves to help contain the bait in the area. As illustrated inFIG. 5, the area540can be located beneath the platform522such that the varmint has to let itself down with force onto the adhesive530, or it can be located distant from the platform522so that the varmint has to leap towards the bait in the area540, such that the varmint impacts the adhesive530with even more force.

FIG. 6illustrates another embodiment of a device600for trapping a varmint. The device600ofFIG. 6includes a housing610. The housing610can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. If opaque, the housing can include a window618so that the contents of the device can be seen. In the embodiment ofFIG. 6, the housing includes a unitary cover612, which is attached to a base level611. Depending on the embodiment, the top of the cover612can be about three to six or more inches above the base level611. The cover612can be attached to the base level611in a detachable or permanent manner.

The housing610includes an opening or aperture615. The opening615is sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the opening615can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing610, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice. As illustrated inFIG. 6, the opening615is elevated from the base level611of the housing610. Depending on the embodiment, the opening615can be positioned from one to three or more inches above the base level611. As further can be seen inFIG. 6, the opening615is positioned distant from a wall612A of the covering612. Depending on the embodiment, the distance from the opening615to the wall612A can be from three to six or more inches. A platform622is positioned adjacent to the opening615in the housing. In another embodiment, the platform622is not present. An adhesive630is positioned on the base level611of the housing610. The adhesive630can be directly applied to the base level611, or can be contained within a tray or other container631. The tray631can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store.

The device600can further include an area640for containing bait to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The area can be delineated by a marking641on the adhesive630or the container631. In an embodiment, the area640includes a small container642which serves to help contain the bait in the area. As illustrated inFIG. 6, the area640can be located beneath the platform622such that the varmint has to let itself down with force onto the adhesive630, or it can be located distant from the platform622so that the varmint has to leap towards the bait in the area640, such that the varmint impacts the adhesive630with even more force.

FIG. 7Aillustrates another embodiment of a device700for trapping a varmint. The device700ofFIG. 7Aincludes a housing710. The housing710can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. The housing includes four walls712,712A,712B, and712C, which are attached to a base level711. An embodiment includes a ridge (or ledge)717that is attached to the walls712,712A,712B, and712C. Depending on the embodiment, the ridge can be about six inches above the base level711. The ridge717prevents a rodent from scurrying down one of the walls712,712A,712B, or712C and gently contacting an adhesive730. Rather, with the ridge717in place, the rodent is more likely to drop onto the adhesive and become forcibly embedded in the adhesive.

As noted, an adhesive730is positioned on the base level711of the housing710. The adhesive can be directly applied to the base level711, or can be contained within a tray or other container731. The tray731can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store.

The device700can further include an area740for containing bait to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The area can be delineated by a marking741on the wall712(or on the adhesive730or the glue/adhesive container731). In an embodiment, the area740includes a small container742which serves to help contain the bait in the area.

FIG. 7Billustrates another embodiment of a varmint control device. The embodiment ofFIG. 7Bis substantially similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 7A. One difference between the embodiments ofFIGS. 7A and 7Bis that the embodiment ofFIG. 7Bincludes a covering750. The covering prevents dirt and other grime from fouling the adhesive surface730. The covering750includes a first panel751, a second panel752that is substantially perpendicular to the first panel751, and a third panel753and a fourth panel754that are non-perpendicular to the first panel751. As further illustrated inFIG. 7B, a first edge755of the first panel751is coupled to the ridge717. The second panel752further includes a protrusion756or other device to contact the ridge717. The contacting of protrusion756with the ridge717causes the first panel751to not be parallel with the base level711or adhesive surface730. The contacting of the protrusion756with the ridge717further causes a space between the walls712and712B. This space permits a varmint to access the control device and become trapped in the adhesive surface730by jumping onto, dropping onto, or falling onto the adhesive surface.

FIG. 8Ais an illustration of an embodiment of a varmint control device800. The device800includes a housing810. The housing810includes an opening820, which permits a varmint to crawl through and enter into the housing. Small openings825permit the scent of bait that is placed within the housing to exude from the housing and attract a varmint. The housing810also includes transparent material818so that one can observe whether a varmint has been trapped within the device800. Referring now toFIG. 8B, the housing810rests on a base811. Attached to the base811is a platform822. In another embodiment, the platform822is not present. When the housing810is placed onto the base811, the opening820should be slightly above the platform822. As with other embodiments, the base811further includes a tray831with an adhesive830, and a demarcation841defining an area840for the placement of bait to attract a varmint. The area840can also include a container842or other device to hold the bait. As with other embodiments, a varmint will enter the device800onto the platform822via the opening820. The varmint will sense the bate on the opposite side of the housing, and in the course of trying to access the bait, will forcibly contact the adhesive830, and become trapped therein.

FIG. 9illustrates another embodiment of a device900to trap or capture a rodent or other varmint. The device900ofFIG. 9includes a housing910. The housing910can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. The housing910inFIG. 9is drawn in a dotted line format to indicate that while the housing910can be opaque, it is illustrated inFIG. 9in a transparent manner such that the contents of the housing910can be seen. The housing includes four walls912,912A,912B, and912C, which are attached to a base level911. An embodiment includes a ceiling917that is attached to the walls912,912A,912B, and912C. Depending on the embodiment, the ceiling can be about twelve inches above the base level911. The ceiling917can be a simple covering, similar to a top of an ordinary shoe box, that can be removed to permit the removal and/or replacement of the contents of the device. The ceiling917can also be attached to one of the walls912,912A,912B, or912C in a hinged manner to permit the raising of the ceiling917to expose the contents inside the device900. In another embodiment, there is no ceiling and the top of the housing is simply open leaving the inside and contents of the device900accessible. In yet another embodiment, the ceiling917is made out of a transparent or clear material so that the contents of the device900can be viewed without having to remove the ceiling917. Alternatively, one of the walls912,912A,912B, or912C can be removable, by hinges or other means, to permit access to the contents inside of the device900.

The housing910includes an opening or aperture915. In an embodiment, the housing910can include a second opening915A. The openings915,915A are sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the openings915,915A can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing910, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the opening915is positioned at an approximate center of the wall912A. As further can be seen inFIG. 9, the opening915is positioned distant from the wall912C of the housing. Depending on the embodiment, the distance from the opening915to the wall912C can be from six to twelve inches or more. A ramp920could be positioned adjacent to the opening915in the housing. The ramp920would extend from the base level911to the opening915. A platform922extends from the opening915to the opening915A. The platform922can be supported by one or more interior walls923. In another embodiment, either the ramp920and/or the platform922are not present. One or more trays931are positioned in the device900at the base level911to form an angle as illustrated inFIG. 9. An adhesive930is contained within the one or more trays931. The one or more trays931can be typical glue traps that are used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the angle formed by the one or more trays forms a crevice. This crevice increases the surface area of the glue that will contact and trap a varmint. This is particularly helpful in the case of larger varmints such as rats. As with other embodiments, the elevation of the platform922over the one or more trays931will cause or force the varmint to fall onto, jump onto, or otherwise impact the adhesive930with some force. As with other embodiments, bait can be placed on the one or more trays931to attract the varmint.

FIG. 10illustrates another embodiment of a device1000to trap or capture a rodent or other varmint. The device1000ofFIG. 10includes a housing1010. The housing1010can be made of any suitable material including plastic (both clear and opaque), metal, aluminum, cardboard, etc. If opaque, the housing can include a window1018so that the contents of the device can be seen. The housing includes four walls1012,1012A,1012B, and1012C. In an embodiment, the wall1012A can be made of a transparent material so that the contents of the housing1010can easily be seen. In another embodiment, the housing is a dome. As illustrated inFIG. 10, the housing1010is sized to fit over a glue tray1031or other container that has an adhesive1030deposited therein. The glue tray1031can be a typical glue trap that is used to trap mice, rats, and other varmints, and which can be purchased at any hardware or home supply store. In contrast to some other embodiments, the housing1010has no base.

The housing1010includes an opening or aperture1015. In an embodiment, the housing1010can include a second opening1015A. The openings1015,1015A are sized depending upon the type of varmint desired to be trapped. For example, the openings1015,1015A can be sized to permit a mouse to enter the housing1010, but would be sized larger if it was desired to trap rats instead of or in addition to mice. As illustrated inFIG. 10, the opening1015is elevated from a lower portion1011of the walls1012,1012A,1012B, and1012C. Depending on the embodiment, the opening1015can be positioned from three to six or more inches above the lower portion1011. Indentations or protrusions1045can be placed on the wall1012of the housing such that a varmint can more easily scale the wall1012to gain access to the opening1015. As further can be seen inFIG. 10, the opening1015is positioned distant from the wall1012B of the housing. Depending on the embodiment, the distance from the opening1015to the wall1012B can be from three to six or more inches. A platform1022is positioned adjacent to the openings1015,1015A in the housing. In another embodiment, the platform1022is not present.

Prior to placing the device1010over a glue tray1031, bait can be placed on the adhesive1030that is contained within the glue tray1031. As with other embodiments, the purpose of the bait is to attract a varmint. A typical bait used to attract a varmint is peanut butter. The housing1010can further include a shelf1041on the interior of the wall1012B or the wall1012C close to the lower portion1011. The shelf1041is for receiving the bait (in lieu of placing the bait directly on the adhesive). As illustrated inFIG. 10, the shelf1041can be located beneath the platform1022on wall1012B such that the varmint has to let itself down with force onto the adhesive1030, or it can be located distant from the platform1022on wall1012C so that the varmint has to leap towards the bait on the shelf1041or the bait on the adhesive, such that the varmint impacts the adhesive1030with even more force.

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

1. Example No. 1 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing; a first opening in a first wall of the housing, the first opening elevated from a base level of the housing and positioned distant from a second wall of the housing; a ramp positioned adjacent to the first opening in the housing, the ramp extending from the base level of the housing to the first opening in the first wall of the housing; and an adhesive positioned on the base level of the housing.
2. Example No. 2 includes all the features of Example No. 1, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the ramp extends into the housing.
3. Example No. 3 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-2, and optionally includes an area proximate the second wall of the housing and proximate the base level of the housing for receiving a substance to attract the varmint; and one or more apertures in the second wall of the housing proximate the substance such that an aroma from the substance can emanate from the housing.
4. Example No. 4 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-3, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the housing comprises a third wall and a fourth wall, wherein the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall are attached to the base level of the housing.
5. Example No. 5 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-4, and optionally includes a ceiling coupled to the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall, the ceiling positioned over and distant from the base level of the housing.
6. Example No. 6 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-5, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the ceiling is removable from the housing.
7. Example No. 7 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-6, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein one of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, or the fourth wall is removably attached to the base level of the housing.
8. Example No. 8 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-7, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the removably attached first wall, second wall, third wall, or fourth wall comprises a hinge.
9. Example No. 9 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-8, and optionally includes a second opening in the housing, the second opening in the housing positioned in a third wall of the housing, the third wall of the housing opposite the first wall of the housing, wherein the ramp extends from the first opening in the housing through the housing to the second opening in the housing, and through the second opening in the housing to the base level of the housing.
10. Example No. 10 includes all the features of Example Nos. 1-9, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the first opening is sized such that the varmint not larger than a rodent can enter into the housing.
11. Example No. 11 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing; a first opening in a first wall of the housing, the first opening positioned at a base level of the housing and positioned distant from a second wall of the housing; a ramp positioned adjacent to the first opening in the first wall of the housing and positioned within the housing, the ramp rising to a platform within the housing, the platform elevated from the base level of the housing; and an adhesive positioned on the base level of the housing.
12. Example No. 12 includes all the features of Example No. 11, and optionally includes a first vertical wall within the housing and a second vertical wall within the housing, the first vertical wall and the second vertical wall positioned adjacent to the ramp, the first vertical wall and the second vertical wall separated from each other by the platform.
13. Example No. 13 includes all the features of Example Nos. 11-12, and optionally includes an area proximate the second wall of the housing and proximate the base level of the housing for receiving a substance to attract the varmint.
14. Example No. 14 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing; a first opening in a first wall of the housing, the first opening positioned at a base level of the housing and positioned distant from a second wall of the housing; a ramp positioned adjacent the first opening in the housing, the ramp rising up from the base level of the housing such that an end of the ramp opposite the opening is elevated from the base level of the housing; and an adhesive positioned on the base level of the housing.
15. Example No. 15 includes all the features of Example No. 14, and optionally includes an an area proximate the second wall of the housing and proximate the base level of the housing for receiving a substance to attract the varmint.
16. Example No. 16 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing; an opening in a first wall of the housing, the opening elevated from a base level of the housing and positioned distant from a second wall of the housing; a platform positioned inside of the housing and adjacent to a bottom portion of the opening in the first wall of the housing, the platform elevated from the base level of the housing; and an adhesive positioned on the base level of the housing.
17. Example No. 17 includes all the features of Example No. 16, and optionally includes an area proximate the second wall of the housing and proximate the base level of the housing for receiving a substance to attract the varmint.
18. Example No. 18 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing, the housing comprising a base, a first vertical wall coupled to the base, a second vertical wall coupled to the base, a third vertical wall coupled to the base, and an angled wall coupled to the base, the first vertical wall, the second vertical wall, and the third vertical wall; an opening positioned in the angled wall such that the opening is elevated above the base; and an adhesive positioned on the base of the housing.
19. Example No. 19 includes all the features of Example No. 18, and optionally includes an area of the base for receiving a substance to attract the varmint, wherein the opening in the angled wall is elevated above the area of the base for receiving the substance to attract the varmint.
20. Example No. 20 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing, the housing comprising a base, a first wall coupled to the base, a second wall coupled to the base, a third wall coupled to the base, and a fourth wall coupled to the base; a ceiling coupled to the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall, the ceiling elevated above the base; an opening in the ceiling, the opening elevated above the base of the housing; and an adhesive positioned on the base of the housing.
21. Example No. 21 includes all the features of Example No. 20, and optionally includes a plurality of indentations or protrusions in the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, or the fourth wall for enabling the varmint to scale the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, or the fourth wall.
22. Example No. 22 includes all the features of Example Nos. 20-21, and optionally includes an area of the base for receiving a substance to attract the varmint, wherein the opening in the top ceiling is elevated above the area of the base for receiving the substance to attract the varmint.
23. Example No. 23 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing, the housing comprising a base; an opening in the housing, the opening elevated above the base; and an adhesive positioned on the base of the housing.
24. Example No. 24 includes all the features of Example No. 23, and optionally includes an area of the base for receiving a substance to attract the varmint, wherein the opening is elevated above the area of the base for receiving the substance to attract the varmint.
25. Example No. 25 includes all the features of Example Nos. 23-24, and optionally includes a first wall coupled to the base, a second wall coupled to the base, a third wall coupled to the base, and a fourth wall coupled to the base; and a ledge coupled to one or more of a top portion of the first wall, a top portion of the second wall, a top portion of the third wall, or a top portion of the fourth wall, wherein the ledge is substantially horizontal to the base.
26. Example No. 26 includes all the features of Example Nos. 23-25, and optionally includes a covering, the covering positioned above the base and the adhesive, the covering coupled to one or more of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall, the covering positioned to maintain at least a portion of the opening in the housing.
27. Example No. 27 includes all the features of Example Nos. 23-26, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein one or more of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall lean towards an interior of the apparatus; and comprising a covering, the covering comprising a first panel, a second narrow panel substantially perpendicular to the first panel, and one or more narrow panels that are non-perpendicular to the first panel; wherein a first edge of the first panel is coupled to the ledge coupled to the top portion of the first wall, wherein a second edge of the second panel is coupled to the ledge coupled to the top portion of the second wall such that the first panel is not parallel to the base, thereby providing a space between one or more of the third wall and the fourth wall and the one or more panels that are non-perpendicular to the first panel.
28. Example No. 28 includes a container for trapping a rodent comprising a floor; a plurality of walls connected to the floor; an aperture in at least one of the plurality of walls; a platform positioned within the container, the platform positioned adjacent to the aperture and elevated above the floor; and an adhesive positioned on the floor; wherein the aperture is sized to permit the rodent to gain access to the platform.
29. Example No. 29 includes all the features of Example No. 28, and optionally includes means exterior to the container for permitting the rodent to gain access to the aperture and the platform.
30. Example No. 30 includes all the features of Example Nos. 28-29, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the elevation of the platform above the floor is such that the rodent can forcefully become entrapped in the adhesive by descending, falling, or jumping onto the adhesive.
31. Example No. 31 includes all the features of Example Nos. 28-30, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the adhesive comprises a glue board or a glue trap.
32. Example No. 32 includes all the features of Example Nos. 28-31, and optionally includes a top connected to the plurality of walls, and wherein the plurality of walls or the top comprises a transparent portion to allow for visual inspection of an interior of the container.
33. Example No. 33 includes all the features of Example No. 12, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the housing, the first vertical wall within the housing, the second vertical wall within the housing, the ramp, and the platform form a compartment in the housing, and comprising an opening in the housing permitting access to the compartment by the varmint.
34. Example No. 34 includes all the features of Example Nos. 12 and 33, and optionally includes a tray or other device within the compartment for receiving a rodenticide or other poison.
35. Example No. 35 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing; an opening in a first portion of the housing, the opening elevated from a base level of the housing and positioned distant from a second portion of the housing; a platform positioned inside of the housing and adjacent to a bottom portion of the opening in the first portion of the housing, the platform elevated from the base level of the housing; and an adhesive positioned on the base level of the housing.
36. Example No. 36 includes all the features of Example No. 35, and optionally includes an area proximate the second portion of the housing and proximate the base level of the housing for receiving a substance to attract the varmint.
37. Example No. 37 includes all the features of Example No. 16, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the adhesive is contained within a tray, the tray positioned below and adjacent to the elevated platform, the tray comprising a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section forming an obtuse angle, and a vertex of the obtuse angle positioned proximate to the base level of the housing.
38. Example No. 38 includes all the features of Example Nos. 16 and 37, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the obtuse angle comprises an acute angle.
39. Example No. 39 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing; an opening in a first wall of the housing, the opening elevated from a base level of the housing; an elevated platform in positioned inside of the housing and adjacent to a bottom portion of the opening in the first wall of the housing, the elevated platform elevated from the base level of the housing; and a tray positioned below and adjacent to the elevated platform, the tray comprising a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section forming an obtuse angle, a vertex of the obtuse angle positioned proximate to the base level of the housing, and the tray containing an adhesive disposed in the tray.
40. Example No. 40 includes all the features of Example No. 39, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the obtuse angle comprises an acute angle.
41. Example No. 41 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-40, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the first section comprises a first separate tray and the second section comprises a second separate tray.
42. Example No. 42 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-41, and optionally includes a second opening in a second wall of the housing, the second wall of the housing opposite the first wall of the housing, and wherein the elevated platform extends from the first opening to the second opening.
43. Example No. 43 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-42, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the first opening is positioned in an approximate center of the first wall and the second opening is positioned in an approximate center of the second wall.
44. Example No. 44 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-43, and optionally includes a first interior wall and a second interior wall, the first interior wall and the second interior wall extending from the platform to the base, and the first interior wall and the second interior wall supporting the platform.
45. Example No. 45 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-44, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the first section of the tray is in contact with and supported by the first interior wall and the second section of the tray is in contact with and supported by a third wall.
46. Example No. 46 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-45, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the first section of the tray and the second section of the tray are in contact with and supported by the first wall and the second wall.
47. Example No. 47 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-46, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the vertex is in contact with the base level of the housing.
48. Example No. 48 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-47, and optionally includes a ceiling coupled to the first wall of the housing.
49. Example No. 49 includes all the features of Example Nos. 39-48, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the ceiling comprises a clear material.
50. Example No. 50 includes an apparatus for trapping a varmint comprising a housing an opening in the housing, the opening providing access to an interior of the housing; and an elevated platform positioned in the interior of the housing, wherein the opening provides access to the elevated platform; and wherein the housing is operable to be placed over an adhesive.
51. Example No. 51 includes all the features of Example No. 50, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the adhesive comprises a glue tray.
52. Example No. 52 includes all the features of Example Nos. 50-51, and optionally includes the glue tray.
53. Example No. 53 includes all the features of Example Nos. 50-52, and optionally includes the adhesive.
54. Example No. 54 includes all the features of Example Nos. 50-53, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the opening is positioned adjacent to the elevated platform.
55. Example No. 55 includes all the features of Example Nos. 50-54, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the opening is positioned at a lower portion of the housing, and comprising a ramp coupling the opening to the elevated platform.
56. Example No. 56 includes all the features of Example Nos. 50-55, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the housing comprises a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, and a ceiling, and wherein the housing does not comprise a floor or a base level.
57. Example No. 57 includes all the features of Example Nos. 50-56, and optionally includes an apparatus wherein the housing comprises a dome, and wherein the housing does not comprise a floor or a base level.
58. Example No. 58 includes all the features of Example Nos. 50-57, and optionally includes a shelf coupled to an interior of the housing, the shelf operable for receiving bait to attract the varmint.

The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) and will allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.