The Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS) is an important treaty that was developed with the aim of promoting the humane treatment of wild animals caught in traps. This agreement was signed by several countries that recognized the importance of regulating trapping practices to minimize animal suffering.

The AIHTS was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and came into force in 2008. It outlines a set of standards that must be met by countries that choose to adhere to the agreement. These standards include the type of traps that can be used, the methods that must be employed to capture and kill the animals, and the materials that should be used in the construction of the traps.

The AIHTS is particularly concerned with the use of inhumane traps, which can cause severe pain and suffering to the animals caught in them. These traps are often designed to kill the animal instantly, but if they fail to do so, the animal may be left to suffer for hours or even days. The AIHTS aims to ban the use of inhumane traps and promote the use of more humane trapping methods.

The AIHTS recognizes that trapping is sometimes necessary for the management of wildlife populations, but it emphasizes that this should be done in a humane and sustainable way. The agreement encourages the use of trap types that minimize the chances of catching non-target species and reduce the risk of injury to the animals.

In addition to promoting humane trapping practices, the AIHTS also calls for the development of alternative methods of wildlife management. This includes the use of non-lethal methods of controlling animal populations, such as contraception or relocation.

Overall, the AIHTS is an important agreement that promotes the humane treatment of animals caught in traps. It recognizes the need for trapping in some situations but emphasizes that this should be done in a sustainable and responsible way. By adhering to the standards set out in the AIHTS, countries can ensure that their trapping practices are both humane and effective.