Live trapping offers a humane and effective method for managing nuisance squirrels around a home or property. This process involves capturing the animal unharmed in a specialized cage, allowing for its safe removal and release elsewhere. Successfully trapping a squirrel requires careful preparation and execution, focusing on the correct tools, appealing bait, and responsible handling procedures. This guide provides detailed instructions for every stage of the live trapping process.
Selecting the Proper Equipment
A trap specifically sized for squirrels typically measures between 16 to 24 inches long, with widths and heights around 6 to 8 inches. These dimensions prevent injury to the animal while ensuring it cannot easily escape once captured.
The trap construction should be sturdy galvanized wire mesh, which resists rust and provides durability. Traps are available in one-door and two-door designs; the two-door style can encourage easier entry because the squirrel sees a clear path through the cage. Always handle the trap while wearing thick gloves to protect against potential bites or scratches during setting and transport.
Strategic Baiting and Placement
The proper bait is a powerful attractant that coaxes the squirrel into the cage. Squirrels are highly motivated by nuts and seeds, making unsalted peanuts in the shell, sunflower seeds, or peanut butter effective. For the highest attraction, smear peanut butter on the trigger plate and press an in-shell peanut into it. This works well because it forces the animal to manipulate the plate to reach the reward.
The main bait portion should be placed strategically at the back of the trap, well beyond the pressure-sensitive trigger plate. Creating a subtle trail of seeds or nuts leading from the entrance to the interior can also increase the squirrel’s confidence to enter.
Placing the trap on a flat, level surface ensures the mechanism functions correctly and prevents the cage from wobbling, which could deter a wary squirrel. Optimal placement is near known travel routes or entry points, such as at the base of a tree, along a fence line, or near a damaged structure.
To minimize the animal’s hesitation, lightly cover the bottom of the trap with a thin layer of natural material like dirt, leaves, or grass. This technique disguises the wire floor, which can feel unnatural. Securing the trap with a brick or heavy object on top can also prevent the animal from knocking it over while attempting to access the bait from the outside.
Step-by-Step Trap Setting
Activating the trap mechanism is a delicate procedure that determines capture success. Begin by unlocking the trap door, which is typically held closed by a safety clip or latch. The door is then lifted and held in the open position while the trigger rod is moved into place.
This trigger rod connects the open door to the sensitive trigger plate located on the floor of the trap. The rod must be engaged carefully so that its hook catches the edge of the door, holding it open under slight tension. This setup ensures that only a minimal amount of weight on the trigger plate will release the door.
After the trap is set, test the sensitivity of the mechanism before deployment. Apply light pressure to the trigger plate using a small stick or a gloved finger. The door should immediately drop and lock securely with a distinct sound, demonstrating that the trap will spring shut from the weight of a small squirrel. Always keep fingers clear of the door opening and the trigger mechanism during the setting and testing process to prevent accidental injury.
If the door does not spring shut easily, the trigger rod may need adjustment to increase the sensitivity. Some traps allow for a slight bending of the trigger rod or have sensitivity adjustment screws. A properly set trap will close with the slightest disturbance, ensuring a quick and effective capture once the squirrel reaches the bait.
Post-Capture Handling and Release
Once a squirrel is successfully trapped, careful action is required to ensure its safety and minimize stress. The first step involves approaching the trap cautiously and immediately covering the entire cage with a blanket, towel, or tarp. This darkness calms the animal by reducing visual stimuli and preventing it from thrashing against the wire mesh.
When transporting the captured squirrel, wear protective gloves and use the trap’s carrying handle to avoid direct contact. The animal should be relocated promptly to reduce the risk of dehydration, which can occur quickly in a stressed, confined space. If the transport is delayed, a slice of apple or citrus fruit can be placed near the cage to offer some moisture.
Relocation distance is a significant factor, with experts recommending a release site at least five to ten miles away from the capture location to prevent the squirrel from returning. The chosen release area must be a suitable natural habitat, featuring trees, cover, and a reliable food source to maximize the animal’s chance of survival. Before releasing any wild animal, contact local wildlife authorities or animal control to comply with all specific regional laws regarding the relocation and release of nuisance species.