Can I return my trap if I don’t catch anything?

Proper placement of the trap, pre-baiting, using the Lure Tasters, eliminating food competition, and other factors are necessary for successful trapping. We can’t guarantee the trap will work in your specific setting. However, if you want to return your trap, contact us to arrange a return within 30 days of the shipping date.

An RMA (return merchandise authorization) number must be obtained from support@automatictrap.com beforehand, and the product must be received within 2 weeks.

You are responsible for return shipping costs. Your account will be credited when the trap is received. Please note: We do not accept returns on consumables such as lure and CO₂ canisters.

Why are there no dead pests underneath my Goodnature® trap?

Scavenging is a frequent occurrence, so it is unlikely you will see everything that is dispatched by your trap. Rats, raccoons, cats, birds, pigs, and even dogs have been known to scavenge dead critters from Goodnature® traps. You can monitor the activity of your A24 by using a Goodnature® Digital Strike Counter or the smart trap to gain a clearer picture of any time your trap is triggered.

What is a Goodnature® Digital Strike Counter?

Just in case you were wondering how many times the trap had been triggered, Goodnature® has made a digital strike counter. Packed into a tiny enclosure, the strike counter slides onto the CO₂ canister and spends most of its day asleep. It is sparked into action only when the trap is set off. Because it sleeps so much, you should get five years between battery changes, even if you check it weekly.

Will the trap operate in extreme temperatures?

The Goodnature® A24 Rat and Mouse Trap can handle cold, sub-zero temperatures. Our traps are designed to remain operational up to 104°F (40°C) and as low as -4°F (-20°C), but not lower, as this can damage both the plastic and seals. Nothing will rust inside the trap.

However, there are three things to keep in mind:

1. The plastic becomes more sensitive in cold temperatures, so do not test-fire the trap unnecessarily and not with a hard object.
2. The paste freezes, so it may be worth trying some alternative (local) lure that may work better in sub-zero temperatures.
3. You may find rats and mice move indoors as the weather freezes, so relocating the trap indoors may be the best option.

How do I know how much CO₂ is left in the canister?

You can test-fire the trap to see if there is CO₂ remaining. To ensure your traps remain charged, change the CO₂ canister every 6 months. See the Quick Start Guides for more detail.

Why should you use only Goodnature® CO₂?

We ask customers to only use Goodnature® CO₂ 16-gram canisters in their traps. This is for several reasons:

1. Our CO₂ canisters are capped with dry silicone, which lubricates the regulator and seals to ensure long life of the trap.
2. We source our canisters from Taiwan, as they are guaranteed to have no petrochemical residues from the factory machinery, which can cause the rubber seals of the trap to perish.
3. The canisters have a gold passivate coating, which prevents corrosion out in the field.
4. We also quality check all of the threads when the canisters arrive to ensure they are fit for purpose.
5. The warranty is void if non-Goodnature® CO₂ canisters are used.

Can I shift the trap when it is live?

Unless you’re using a portable trap stand (Home Trapping Kit), you should not shift a live trap that has been mounted. You must de-gas and then de-pressurize the trap before shifting. See the Quick Start Guides for more detail.

Can I purchase extra tree mount brackets?

Yes, but best practice is to instead purchase extra traps and increase your area of control, allowing your existing traps to manage re-invasion.

How do I refresh the paste?

While our pastes are long life, they will eventually tire and diminish in their scent when exposed to air. At least once a month, remove the shroud cap and take the long life paste bottle out. Tap it against the tree trunk so the tired paste is dabbed out as a pre-feed to attract pests. Wipe all excess paste away from the bite block, or mouth of the paste bottle, and return it to the trap. See the Quick Start Guide for more information.

What is the shelf life of unopened paste?

All unopened pastes have a shelf life of 18 months.

I suspect my trap is faulty.

Test-fire your trap as outlined in the Quick Start Guide – your trap may need a new CO₂ canister. If you have any concerns, get in touch with us!

I caught a pest! What should I do?

In the field: You don’t need to do anything. The dead animal will either be taken by another animal or slowly decay into the environment.

Around the home: A dead animal will get smelly after a few days of warm weather. To avoid any unpleasant odors, bury the carcass under a few centimeters of soil or compost.

When can I stop trapping?

To maintain the conservation gains you have achieved through initial trapping, your traps should be left in place for the long term to catch any re-invading pests. Remember to refresh the lure monthly and replace the CO₂ and lure every 6 months.

Do you ship to the United States or Canada?

Yes. We ship to everyone in the United States and Canada. We offer Free Shipping over $99 in the US, excluding AK, HI, and PR. Shipping rates will apply in Canada.

Shipping

Shipping is available within the US and Canada. We offer FREE shipping on all orders over $99 in the United States. Different rates may apply to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Canada is excluded.

Please note: Hawaii residents may expect a 4–6 week shipping delay due to the method of shipping (hazmat products such as CO2 canisters will only ship by boat).

All orders will be shipped within 2–4 business days after the order has been received (excluding weekends and statutory holidays).

Most orders will be delivered within 7–10 business days after the order has shipped.

You will receive a tracking number.

Shipping costs are calculated based on the size and weight of your order.

For orders of more than 10 traps, or orders to remote locations, please contact shipping@automatictrap.com for a delivery estimate.

Payment Methods

We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and PayPal as payment methods.

Special Billing Instructions

To protect our customers and prevent fraud, the shipping and billing addresses MUST match the address on file with the credit card company. If you would like to ship to an address other than your billing address, please give us a call at 1-877-992-8868 and we’d be glad to help.

Billing Terms & Conditions

Your order is charged to your credit card or PayPal account at the time of order.

Return Merchandise Policies

All returned merchandise must be accompanied by a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Please call us to request an RMA number. RMA numbers must be obtained within 30 days from the date of delivery.

Defective Merchandise

Defective merchandise may be returned while under warranty for credit or exchange after obtaining an RMA number. If you received incorrect or damaged merchandise, we will provide you with a label for return shipping.

Non-Defective Merchandise

Non-defective merchandise may be returned within 30 days of the delivery date after obtaining an RMA number. Product returns must be received within 2 weeks in new and resalable condition in the original packaging. Items damaged or showing signs of use are not returnable. Items missing will be subject to additional charges. Freight charges incurred due to returned merchandise are the responsibility of the customer. We recommend that you use FedEx or UPS with insurance for returns.

Returns Procedure

Call us at 1-877-992-8868 and request a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. We will need the following information: the reason for return and, if defective, a specific description of what is wrong. Merchandise should be packaged in such a way as to protect the product and its packaging. Clearly mark the RMA number on the outside of the shipping box.

What is the Goodnature® Mouse Trap?

The Goodnature® Mouse Trap is a rechargeable, indoor, automatic mouse trap that uses infrared sensors and a mechanical striker to deliver a quick, humane strike when a mouse enters the trap. It is designed to work with PB&J Long-Life Donut lures and connects to the Goodnature app via Bluetooth for status and strike monitoring.

Where can I use the Goodnature® Mouse Trap?

The trap is for indoor home use only. Ensure the trap is kept dry and operated within the specified temperature range. Do not use the trap outdoors or in damp locations such as exposed basements, crawlspaces, or exterior areas.

How does the Mouse Trap detect and kill mice?

The trap uses a PB&J Long-Life Donut lure to draw mice into the entrance. Inside the trap, infrared sensors detect when a mouse is fully inside the strike chamber. When the sensors are triggered, the internal striker delivers a rapid, mechanical strike. The mouse is killed instantly, and you can then clear the trap and reset it for the next strike.

How do I set up the Mouse Trap for the first time?

Follow the installation steps in the Quick Start Guide: press and hold the power button until the light flashes green, load a PB&J Long-Life Donut into the Lure Loader, and position the trap where you see mouse activity. You can then download the Goodnature app, pair the trap via Bluetooth, and run a test to confirm it is working.

What do the different light colors mean?

Press the power button to check your trap’s status:

• Orange flashing light – Strike recorded.
• Red flashing light – Trap error.
• Solid green light – Trap set and ready.
• Solid red light – Battery low.

Do I need the Goodnature app?

The trap can be used on its own, but the Goodnature app (iOS and Android) gives you extra functionality, including Bluetooth connection to see trap status and strikes. The app requires iPhone 6S or later running iOS 15 or higher, or Android 10 or higher.

How do I clear a dead mouse from the trap?

Before clearing, put the trap into Safe Mode as shown in the Quick Start Guide. With the trap in Safe Mode, carefully tip it so the mouse slides out of the entrance. Avoid putting your fingers inside the strike chamber. Once cleared, you can clean the trap and return it to normal operating mode.

How do I clean the Mouse Trap?

Always disconnect the trap from the power source before cleaning. Wipe the trap and strike area with a damp cloth to remove residue. Do not immerse the trap in water. After cleaning, allow the trap to dry completely (at least two hours) before reassembly and use.

How do I change the PB&J Long-Life Donut lure?

Remove the used Donut from the Lure Loader and insert a fresh PB&J Long-Life Donut as shown in the Donut Change section of the Quick Start Guide. Ensure the new Donut is fully seated so the lure is correctly positioned in front of the trap entrance.

What temperatures can the Mouse Trap operate in?

The trap is designed to operate in an ambient temperature range of 0–60 °C (32–140 °F). Do not use the trap outside this range. The battery charging temperature range is 10–45 °C (50–113 °F); only charge the trap within this temperature range.

How do I recharge the Mouse Trap and how long does it take?

Use the supplied USB-C charging cable and a suitable 5V DC power source. Connect the cable to the charging port on the trap and follow the light indicators to confirm charging. A full charge typically takes around two hours. Always let the trap cool to room temperature before charging.

How do I store the Mouse Trap when I’m not using it?

When storing the trap, press and hold the power button until the light turns white and fades out. Remove any bait Donut, make sure the trap is clean and completely dry, and store it in a safe, dry place. Always let the trap cool to room temperature before storage.

I already know I have rats. Why should I use the Lure Tasters?

Lure Tasters will show you the best place to put your A24 trap, i.e. places where rats feel safe eating. Watch our great video about how to use these cards to maximize the effectiveness of your trap.

Is the A24 EPA registered? Are there any restrictions on its use?

It is an EPA-registered device. Because it is completely non-toxic, there are no regulatory restrictions on its use in the USA.

I set my A24 by a compost bin or food source but I’m still seeing rats.

Food-rich areas are complex rat trapping sites and may require extra effort to achieve success. Locations where you see rats or signs of rats are not necessarily spots where they will trigger the trap. Use Lure Taster Cards to determine the best place to set a trap. You may have to disrupt the rats’ routine by moving or reducing access to the food-rich source, if possible, forcing them to look elsewhere for food.

What happens if a child puts their hand into the trap?

In 10 years and tens of thousands of deployed traps it has never been reported; it would be very difficult to do. When installed, the A24 is only 5 inches above the ground. This would be a feat of contortion to get a hand into a trap. That said, if it did happen the hand would receive a blow greater than a mouse snap trap and less than a rat snap trap.

Is the A24 a danger to native birds?

When installed at the recommended 12 cm off the ground or using a trap stand (Home Trapping Kit), the A24 is difficult for a bird to enter. If you are concerned about your local bird population, try mounting the trap with A24 Tree Mounts and installing an A24 Blocker.

Is the A24 trap a danger to pet cats?

Goodnature’s long life rodent lure is not attractive to cats. The shroud entrance is also too narrow for a cat to fit its head into, and the trap is installed 12 cm off the ground or with the A24 Trap Stand (Home Trapping Kit) to further prevent a cat interrogating the trap. It is extremely unlikely that a cat will trigger an A24 rat trap. Neighborhood cats, however, are likely to remove dead rats and mice from below the trap.

How many A24 rat traps should I get for my land area?

The general rule of thumb is two per hectare (spaced 50 m apart). If you have a large area for conservation or a complex site such as an orchard, then call us.

Are squirrels attracted to the A24 Automatic Rat and Mouse Trap?

The paste is designed for rats and mice, and the proper placement is not ideal for squirrels. If you want to trap squirrels, check the A18.

How do I test-fire an A24 Rat & Mouse Trap safely?

To test-fire an A24 trap, ensure that the trap is either on the tree mount or on a trap stand.

For safety: Do not test-fire the trap while holding the trap in your hand. When fired, the force of the trap's striker is strong and is unsafe to hold.

1. Remove the black cap from the trap by unscrewing it from the top.
2. From above the trap, use a pen or stick to push the wire trigger to one side.

If there is gas in the trap, the striker will be triggered. If nothing happens, all gas has been flushed out and the trap is safe to move.

What is the A18 designed to trap?

The Goodnature® A18 is specifically designed to target grey squirrels. It is an automatically resetting trap powered by compressed CO₂ and engineered to provide constant control, delivering up to 18 humane kills per gas canister.

How does the A18 work?

The A18 uses a long-life lure to attract grey squirrels into the tunnel. When a squirrel moves past the trigger to reach the lure, a powerful CO₂-powered striker delivers an instant, humane impact. The squirrel falls clear of the trap, and the A18 automatically resets so it is ready for the next animal.

Where should I place the A18 for best results?

Mount the trap on a straight tree or post using the supplied Tree Mount and Back Plate, about 1.5 m (5 ft) above the ground. The Back Plate makes it difficult for non-target animals to get purchase beneath the trap while still allowing grey squirrels easy access to the entrance. Choose a location where squirrels are active and where the trap can remain undisturbed.

Do I need to pre-feed before arming the A18?

Pre-feeding is recommended to increase success. Place a small amount of lure beneath the trap as “pre-feed.” This extra scent helps attract squirrels to the tunnel and encourages them to investigate the trap entrance.

What lure should I use with the A18?

The A18 is designed to be used with Goodnature’s targeted long-life lure for grey squirrels. Scoop a grape-sized dollop of lure into the lure basket before arming the trap. The long-life lure is formulated to stay attractive outdoors and provide consistent draw to the trap.

Will other animals interact with the A18?

The trap is designed to target grey squirrels and to make it harder for non-target animals to enter. The Back Plate and mounting height reduce access for other species beneath the trap. It is important to follow the installation instructions so the trap is set up safely and in line with local wildlife and trapping regulations.

How do I know my A18 is working?

When used with a Goodnature® Digital Strike Counter, you can see how many times the trap has fired by checking the tally on the display. Even if you do not always see carcasses beneath the trap, the Counter and fresh activity around the entrance (such as lure consumption and tracks) confirm that the trap is working and providing constant control.

How do I safely test-fire an A18?

To test-fire the trap, make sure it is mounted on the tree or post. Keep your hands clear of all trap entrances. From the top of the trap, use a pen or twig to gently push the trigger to one side. If there is gas in the trap, the striker will fire with a bang and then retract. Always treat the trap as live until you have removed the gas canister and safely test-fired to clear any remaining charge.

How often should I replace the CO₂ canister?

You must change the gas canister every 6 months, regardless of how many kills you have counted. This ensures the trap remains properly pressurised and ready to strike whenever a squirrel enters.

How often should I refresh the lure?

Refresh the lure at least once a fortnight (every two weeks). Remove any remaining dried lure from the lure basket and add a fresh grape-sized dollop. The fresher the lure, the more attractive your trap will be to grey squirrels.

How many A18 traps do I need for my property?

Every site is different. Rather than frequently moving a single trap, it is often better to build a small network of A18 traps to increase your pest-free area. Start with one trap in a high-activity location and add more traps over time if you need to control a larger area or multiple hotspots.

What should I do after catching a squirrel?

In many outdoor settings, dead squirrels will be scavenged by other animals or decompose naturally under the trap. Around homes or public areas, you may wish to remove and bury the carcass or place it in household waste where local regulations allow, to avoid odours and unwanted attention from scavengers.

When can I stop trapping?

The A18 is intended as a constant control system rather than a one-off control method. Once local squirrel numbers are reduced, leaving your traps in place helps prevent reinvasion and protects your area over the long term. Keep the lure refreshed and the gas canister replaced every 6 months so the trap is always ready to fire.

What is the TerraTrap GS system designed to trap?

The TerraTrap GS system is primarily designed to trap California Ground Squirrels, but it has also proven effective for catching rats and mice.

Is it legal to trap and kill California ground squirrels?

California Ground Squirrels are classified as nongame mammals under the California Fish and Game Code. When these animals are causing damage to property, crops, landscaping, or structures, California law allows the property owner or their authorized agent to control them.

Under California Fish and Game Code §4152 and §4181, nongame mammals that are injuring property may be taken at any time and in any lawful manner by the property owner, tenant, or their employees or agents. Pest control companies operate as the property owner’s authorized agent when performing control services.

Because ground squirrels are recognized pest animals that cause property damage, their control falls under pest management and depredation authority, not the regulations governing commercial fur trapping. Laws requiring trapping licenses are primarily written to regulate the commercial trapping of furbearing wildlife for fur harvest, and those regulations are separate from pest control activities.

Mechanical traps designed to humanely kill pest rodents—similar to devices commonly used for rats, gophers, and other pest species—are considered pest control tools. When used for the purpose of protecting property from damaging rodents such as ground squirrels, these devices fall within the legal authority granted to property owners and their agents under California depredation laws.

Live trapping of ground squirrels is regulated differently. The use of live-capture traps for wildlife typically requires a trapping license issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. This is due to the trap types used in wildlife trapping and the requirement that captured animals must be handled and euthanized according to wildlife regulations. This regulatory framework is separate from pest control practices involving mechanical kill traps designed specifically for pest rodents.

The depredation laws referenced above can be found in the California Fish and Game Code, Sections 4152 and 4181, which are available through the California Legislative Information website and other public legal resources.

Why is a dirt bath recommended for the TerraTrap GS?

A dirt bath helps reduce squirrel apprehension. Rubbing dirt from surrounding areas and even directly from burrows onto the trap helps it smell more natural and can transfer squirrel pheromones and urine, making the trap feel more comfortable and familiar to them.

How long does it typically take to pre-feed?

With proper setup, squirrels can show activity within a day or two, sometimes even within hours. Most pre-feeding is complete within 3–4 days, allowing the trap to be armed with the A18.

Why is digging a trench in front of the trap important?

The trench is crucial for several reasons:

• It ensures the tunnel is large enough for all squirrels to enter comfortably.
• It allows the squirrel to fall away from the trigger after being dispatched.
• Without a trench, you might experience faster CO₂ depletion or even have all cartridges used at once.

What kind of bait is recommended for the TerraTrap GS, and where should it be placed?

Unshelled, unsalted wildlife peanuts are highly recommended, as California Ground Squirrels go mad for them. You should fill the station with lots of peanuts and also place some in the trench near the back of the tunnel. Additionally, throwing 3–4 peanuts down every open burrow within 40–50 feet of the station is advised to attract squirrels to the new food source. While peanuts are preferred, other dry baits like corn can be tried if peanuts aren't working in your specific location.

Where is the best location to place the TerraTrap GS?

While the trap can work in open areas, it's generally best to place it near bushes or rocks for cover to make it less visible to the public and predators. Squirrels typically forage 50–75 feet away from their burrows, so placing the trap within this range is effective. Avoid placing the trap directly on a burrow, as this can make squirrels cautious; stay at least 20 feet away if placing it in an open area near a burrow.

How Many TerraTrap GS Units Per Acre?

This is one of the most common questions we receive — and the honest answer is: it depends on your goals and your squirrel population.

General Rule

A single TerraTrap GS unit can control several acres over the course of a season if it is relocated as control is achieved.

• Stations should be placed within 50 feet of an active burrow system.
• Once activity in that area is reduced or eliminated, the station should be moved to the next active zone.
• In most cases, an acre can be brought under control within 4–6 weeks after the trap is armed, depending on population density.

Population Density Varies

Not all acres are equal. Ground squirrels typically live in concentrated pockets, not evenly distributed across a property.

• One acre may contain 40 squirrels.
• Another may contain only 10.

This variation directly impacts how quickly control can be achieved.

Speed of Control Matters

The number of stations needed depends largely on how quickly you want results.

Ground squirrel problems usually develop over several years. Likewise, bringing a property back to manageable levels may take more than one season — especially if only one station is used.

• Patient, long-term approach:
  A single unit can make significant progress across 1–5 acres over a season when moved strategically.
• Faster, multi-area control:
  Multiple stations allow you to work several active zones simultaneously.
• Accelerated control in one area:
  Placing two stations in a single acre can dramatically shorten the timeline — often achieving control in just a few weeks.

Larger Properties

For larger properties aiming for meaningful reduction within a couple of years, a practical starting point is:

One unit per five acres, adjusted based on activity levels and expectations.

The overall goal should be to achieve population reduction each year rather than yearly growth. Ground squirrels reproduce relatively slowly compared to other rodents, making long-term population management realistic and achievable when consistent control pressure is applied.  

How can scavengers be encouraged to remove caught squirrels from the trap?

Scavengers must already be visiting the area regularly. To train them, manually remove the first few caught squirrels and place them 10–15 feet away from the station or in a nearby bush. This allows the squirrel to decompose outside the station and attracts scavengers. Monitor with cameras, and try to remove squirrels within 48 hours if no scavenger has taken them. Their scent helps attract other squirrels while giving scavengers time to find them. Once scavengers are routinely removing catches, you can re-evaluate every two weeks.

What should I do if the TerraTrap GS isn't catching squirrels after a week?

If there's no activity after a week, consider moving the trap closer to fresh burrow openings. Ensure all pre-baiting and setup steps (dirt bath, trench, proper baiting) have been followed.

How often should the trap be maintained?

The trap should be maintained monthly. This includes refilling the bait, replacing the CO₂ cartridge, and relocating it if necessary.

My Counter shows a number, but I haven’t seen anything dead.

We get this question a lot. Scavenging is really common – even if you don’t expect it. Pigs, dogs, and cats commonly scavenge dead possums.

How long does the battery last?

The battery should last for up to 5 years. The device spends most of its time sleeping, as it only uses power when the trap strikes or when you check the tally.

What should I do when the battery dies?

When your Counter’s battery dies, send it to Goodnature to be refurbished. NOTE: Opening the Counter casing voids the Goodnature warranty.

My Counter still shows ’00’. Why is that?

There could be a number of reasons for this. You could be accidentally zeroing the Counter when you check the tally because you’re holding the button down too long (see “CHECKING THE COUNTER” in the Success Guide).

Other reasons could be that you haven’t followed our tree selection and setup instructions (see pages 5 and 7), or if you have done, perhaps you haven’t observed our maintenance instructions for keeping the lure refreshed and/or replacing the gas every 6 months (see “SHIFTING YOUR TRAPS” in the Success Guide).

Can a rat or possum set the Counter off any other way?

This is unlikely, as the Counter is calibrated to tick over when there’s a strong jolt, such as the trap firing.

How do I put the Counter onto the trap?

See step 5 of “SETTING YOUR TRAPS” in the Success Guide.

What happens when the Counter gets to 99?

Firstly, you celebrate the success of constant control with your family and friends, and then you zero the Counter because it stops counting once it gets to 99.

How many pests can I expect to kill?

Every location will be different. Possum movements and populations vary throughout the year. Provided the trap is properly maintained (see your Success Guide) and correctly located, it will always be ready and waiting as a constant control. You can relocate the trap periodically (see your Success Guide) or grow your trap network to control a greater area.

Why is my Counter showing kills on it when I’ve got it out of the box?

The Counter is set off by jolts, and jolts are something that happen while your Goodnature Counter is making its way from us to you. See your Success Guide on how to zero your Counter.

Will the target pests interact with the Counter?

Yes, sometimes they might. Rats on occasion can gnaw the plastic of the Counter (and the trap), and sometimes possums might work the Counter off the canister while climbing over the trap trying to find how to get to the delicious lure.

How do I get the Counter off the canister?

See the “DE-COUPLING” section in “SHIFTING YOUR TRAP” in your Success Guide.