The presence of squirrels in human-occupied spaces, such as attics, chimneys, or gardens, is a common conflict that often leads property owners to seek their removal. A frequent solution considered is trapping the animal and moving it elsewhere, a practice known as relocation. Relocation is often viewed as a simple, humane fix to a nuisance problem. However, the core question is whether this displaced squirrel survives in its new environment or if relocation amounts to a death sentence due to the sudden disruption of its established life.
Survival Rates After Relocation
Scientific research suggests that the survival prospects for a relocated squirrel are significantly low, especially when moved over a long distance. Relocation is defined as moving an animal outside of its established home range, which typically extends only a few city blocks or a small area of forest. Studies consistently indicate that long-distance relocation often results in high mortality rates shortly after release. For example, one study focusing on urban-suburban gray squirrels found that 97% of the relocated animals either died or disappeared from the release site within 88 days. Other reviews of wildlife translocation show that moving animals to unfamiliar habitats can result in average survival rates of only 38%, and the long-term rate is likely even lower.
Short-distance relocation (moving the squirrel less than a mile) sometimes yields better immediate survival rates, but it frequently leads to the animal returning to the original property. Squirrels possess homing instincts that motivate them to travel significant distances to return to their established territory. Ultimately, the practice is ineffective as a long-term solution to property conflict, regardless of the distance moved.
Factors Leading to Mortality
The primary reason for the low survival rate is the immense physiological and environmental shock experienced by the displaced animal. The process of capture, confinement, transport, and release induces severe biological stress, sometimes referred to as Relocation Stress Syndrome. This acute stress response elevates glucocorticoid hormones, which can suppress the immune system and lead to exhaustion or a fatal condition known as capture myopathy.
Once released, the squirrel faces immediate resource deprivation because it has no local knowledge of the new area. Squirrels rely on cached food stores and established water sources, and without them, they face starvation, especially if relocated during the winter months. Furthermore, they lack knowledge of safe dens and escape routes, making them highly vulnerable to predation from local hawks, foxes, and domestic pets.
The relocated squirrel is also forced to enter a territory already occupied by established members of its own species. These residents view the newcomer as an intruder, leading to aggressive territorial conflicts that the disoriented squirrel is poorly equipped to win. The combination of severe stress, lack of resources, and territorial fighting drastically lowers the animal’s ability to survive the transition.
Humane Alternatives to Exclusion and Relocation
Given the poor prognosis for relocated squirrels, the most humane and effective approach is exclusion, which focuses on removing the animal from the structure and preventing its re-entry. This begins by thoroughly inspecting the property to identify all potential entry points, such as gaps in the fascia, damaged vents, or chimney openings. All but the main entryway should be sealed using durable materials like heavy-gauge wire mesh or galvanized steel, which squirrels cannot chew through.
A specialized one-way door or exclusion funnel is then temporarily installed over the final, active entry hole. This device is designed to swing outward easily, allowing the squirrel to exit the structure to find food and water, but it automatically locks or closes behind them, preventing re-entry. Once the animal is confirmed to be out, typically within 24 to 48 hours, the one-way door is removed, and the remaining hole is permanently sealed.
Homeowners can further reduce the attraction of their property by modifying the habitat around their home. This involves removing readily available food sources, such as securing garbage bins, clearing fallen fruit, and placing baffles on bird feeders to prevent access. Choosing these non-lethal management methods also avoids potential legal issues, as trapping and relocating wildlife without the proper permits is illegal in many areas.