Rabbits are considered pests under the Pests Act 1954 and are not given any specific protection so it is legal to kill or take them by lawful methods at any time of year. It is an offence though to cause unnecessary suffering to a rabbit caught in a trap or snare. Operators can also use cage traps, drop box traps or spring traps, but must check traps and snares once a day and humanely despatch any rabbits caught.