Can You Trap Bugs or Animals on Shabbat?

Is it allowed to catch a mosquito or flea that’s on your body during Shabbat?

According to halacha (Jewish law), even though there’s a rabbinic prohibition against trapping insects like mosquitoes or fleas since they aren’t usually caught for use, the rabbis made an exception when they’re causing discomfort. So, if a mosquito or flea lands on you and it’s bothering you, you are allowed to take it off by hand and throw it away. This is because the discomfort justifies the action.

What about harmful animals that aren’t venomous like a non-poisonous snake or a scorpion that won’t kill you but might cause pain?

In this case too, halacha allows you to trap or remove the animal in order to avoid harm. Even if the creature isn’t deadly, if it poses a danger or could cause pain, you’re permitted to catch it to protect yourself.

These rulings are based on Ach Tov V’Chesed – Daily Halacha, following the teachings of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef.