What device is required at the center of leg-hold trap chains?

The requirement of a center swivel at the center of leg-hold trap chains is crucial for proper function and animal welfare considerations. The center swivel allows the trap chain to rotate freely, which minimizes the risk of injury to the trapped animal. When an animal is caught in a leg-hold trap, it may struggle against the pull of the chain. Without a swivel, this struggle can lead to unnecessary stress and injury, such as cuts or abrasions from the chain pulling against the animal's leg.

The center swivel acts as a pivot point, permitting the animal to move and struggle without becoming more entangled or experiencing severe restriction on its movement. This design can enhance the humane aspect of trapping, ensuring that captures are as stress-free as possible for the animal while still effectively holding it.

In contrast, a shock absorber, tension device, or trigger mechanism serves different functions. A shock absorber is designed to mitigate the impact of sudden movements, but it does not provide the same rotational freedom that a center swivel does. A tension device works to maintain the trap's effectiveness but does not specifically address the need for free movement. The trigger mechanism is necessary to activate the trap, enabling its closure when an animal interferes with it, but it does not influence the animal