Pitfall traps are simple devices used in ecology and entomology to capture small animals, particularly insects and amphibians. They consist of a deep container, such as a bucket, buried in the ground so that the rim is level with the soil surface. When animals fall into the trap, they cannot escape due to the steep walls. These traps are often used for population studies and biodiversity assessments. Researchers can analyze the captured specimens to gather data on species distribution and abundance. Pitfall traps are effective for monitoring ecosystems and understanding the roles of various species within their habitats.