pitfall trap A device for capturing ground-dwelling invertebrates which comprises an appropriately baited vessel (e.g. a jamjar containing a small piece of rotting meat), which is buried so its mouth is at ground level. The mouth is covered by a roof, to shelter the vessel from rain and prevent larger animals from entering, raised sufficiently to allow access for target species.

pitfall trap A simple trap for small invertebrate animals consisting of a tin that is placed in the ground with its rim at ground level. The trap, which contains some kind of bait, can be covered by a tile suspended above ground level by stones so that rain does not enter the tin.