Finding a dead squirrel on your property is a common event that requires careful attention. Wild animal carcasses pose a risk to public health and may attract unwanted pests if not handled promptly and correctly. This guide provides safe, practical steps for removing the animal and sanitizing the area. Following these procedures ensures the disposal process protects you, your family, and the environment.
Essential Safety and Handling Precautions
Preparing yourself with the proper protective gear is the first step before approaching the carcass. Never handle the animal with bare hands due to the potential for disease transmission. Wear heavy-duty, waterproof gloves, such as nitrile or rubber, and long sleeves to prevent direct skin contact.
The decomposition process and the presence of external parasites present a biological risk. Squirrels can carry zoonotic bacteria like Francisella tularensis (tularemia) and Leptospira bacteria (leptospirosis). Ticks and fleas on the deceased animal often leave the cooling body in search of a new host, increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases. Wearing a simple face mask can offer a layer of protection against inhaling any airborne particles or pathogens.
Choosing a Disposal Method
Regardless of the final method chosen, the first physical step is to contain the carcass securely. Use a long-handled tool, like a shovel or rake, to avoid physical contact and gently place the squirrel into a heavy-duty plastic bag. The carcass must then be placed into a second bag, effectively creating a double-bag barrier to prevent leakage of fluids and contain odor.
The most straightforward disposal option is typically through municipal waste collection. After double-bagging the small animal, place the package directly into your outdoor trash bin just before the scheduled collection day. Check with your local waste management service or health department, as some jurisdictions have specific rules regarding the disposal of wildlife.
If burying the carcass is preferred, specific requirements must be met to deter scavengers and protect local water sources. The burial hole must be a minimum of two to three feet deep to prevent local animals like raccoons or dogs from digging up the remains. The chosen site must be located well away from any vegetable gardens, utility lines, and any source of surface or groundwater. Some guidelines suggest a distance of at least 200 feet from wells. Local ordinances regarding wildlife burial should be consulted, as rules vary widely based on property type and location.
Final Steps for Site Sanitation
Once the carcass is contained and removed, the area where the squirrel was found must be disinfected. Begin by safely removing the gloves, turning the outer pair inside out as you remove them, and disposing of them immediately with the other contaminated materials. Any tools used, such as the shovel or rake, require thorough cleaning to eliminate biological residue.
Tools should be cleaned outside with soap and water, then sanitized using a diluted bleach solution. A common and effective ratio for disinfection is one part household bleach mixed with nine parts water, creating a 1:10 solution. The solution should remain in contact with the tools for several minutes before a final rinse. Finally, any clothing that may have come into contact with the carcass should be washed separately from other laundry, using hot water and detergent.