To trap squirrels, use humane traps and bait, and place them near areas where squirrels frequent. Squirrels can be cute and entertaining when they dart around the yard or scamper up a tree, but they can quickly become a nuisance – particularly when they start to damage property.
Not only can they chew through wires, but they can also cause damage to attic insulation, chew through siding, and tear up plants. Therefore, when a squirrel or two starts to cause trouble, it may be necessary to trap them.
Fortunately, trapping squirrels isn’t overly difficult, and in this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to trap squirrels as humanely as possible. So, if you’re ready to get started, let’s dive in!
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Understanding Squirrels
Squirrels can be a nuisance to homeowners, causing property damage and noise disturbance. That’s why it’s important to know how to trap them. Understanding squirrel behavior and habits can help you prepare for trapping. It’s also essential to identify the types of squirrels in your area as each species may have varying habits and preferences.
Keep in mind that it’s important to trap squirrels humanely and release them in a safe location far away from your home. With patience and the right tools, you can effectively trap squirrels and prevent them from causing further damage.
Trapping Equipment
Trapping squirrels requires the right equipment. There are three types of squirrel traps. The first is a one-way door trap, which allows squirrels to exit but not re-enter. The second is a live cage trap, which captures and holds the squirrel alive.
The third is a lethal trap, which kills the squirrel instantly. When placing traps, choose the best location by determining where the squirrels are most active. Trees and places where squirrels feed are good spots. Choosing the right bait is important.
Squirrels love nuts, seeds, and fruit. Use these as bait to attract them to the trap. With the right equipment, location, and bait, you can successfully trap squirrels.
Setting Traps
Trapping squirrels can be simple if you follow these guidelines. Firstly, prepare the trap, ensuring it is in good condition for effective use. Always take safety precautions when setting a trap, like wearing gloves to mask human scent. The best position for the trap is in the squirrel’s path, where they’re most likely to travel.
Leave a sufficient bait area to further lure them in. Remember, it’s vital that you check the trap every day, not leaving a squirrel trapped for more than a day for humane reasons. It’s easy to trap a squirrel if you know what to do and follow the set protocols.
Checking Traps And Releasing Squirrels
When trapping squirrels, it’s essential to check your traps regularly. You don’t want to leave a trapped creature for too long. When you do release them, be mindful of their wellbeing. Hold them gently and minimally. If they are injured, have a wildlife rehabilitation expert handle them.
It’s also important to know how often to check your traps. Traps should be checked at least once a day, preferably in the early morning. By following these steps, you can safely and humanely trap squirrels and release them back into the wild where they belong.
Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations
Squirrels might be cute, but they can wreak havoc on your property! If you want to prevent future squirrel infestations, you need to identify and seal entry points. Check your roof, vents, and foundation for possible holes, and cover them with metal mesh if necessary.
Also, remove any food sources that attract squirrels, such as bird feeders or garbage cans. If you don’t want to harm these critters, use humane ways to deter squirrels from returning, like sprinkling cayenne pepper around your house or installing nesting boxes away from gardens and yards.
With these tips, you can keep squirrels off your property without causing them any harm.
Frequently Asked Questions On How To Trap Squirrels
How Do I Trap A Squirrel Without Harming It?
Using a live trap is the best way to trap a squirrel without causing it harm. Use baits such as apples, peanut butter, or sunflower seeds to lure the squirrel into the trap. Once captured, release the squirrel into a suitable environment far from your home.
What Is The Best Location For Squirrel Traps?
Look for areas in your yard where you see squirrel droppings or where they are discovering food sources. Place the trap in an open area against a wall or fence so that the squirrel feels safe entering the trap. Ensure there’s a clear path for the squirrel to approach the trap.
What Type Of Live Trap Should I Use?
The best type of trap to use on squirrels is the humane live-catch trap. They are commonly available at local stores and come in a variety of sizes. Large traps are ideal when you need to trap a whole family of squirrels.
Ensure the trap’s door mechanism is smooth, reliable, and functions correctly.
What Baits Should I Use To Attract Squirrels?
The most effective baits include peanuts, walnuts, bird seeds, apple slices, and dried corn. You should choose what works best based on your geographic location or keeping in mind the squirrel’s food preferences. Place the bait at the back of the trap to prevent the squirrel from stealing the bait and escaping.
What Should I Do Once I’Ve Trapped The Squirrel?
Once you’ve trapped the squirrel, wear gloves, and relocate them far from your home. Squirrels are territorial, and releasing them in nearby woods would lead to them returning to where you trapped them. It is best to relocate them to natural areas or parks at a distance from your home.
Conclusion
After reading through this guide on how to trap squirrels, you should now have a good understanding of how to get the job done safely and ethically. From identifying the type of trap to use and choosing the right bait, to placing the trap in the best location, all the necessary steps have been covered.
It’s important to remember that trapping squirrels should only be done when absolutely necessary and that relocation should be carried out in accordance with local regulations. Avoid causing harm to these cute critters by checking your traps regularly and releasing them as quickly as possible.
With a bit of patience and skill, you can successfully trap squirrels and keep them from causing damage to your property. Now grab your traps and get to work!