You can definitely trap squirrels, but the trap you choose really depends on what you’re after—are you hoping to relocate them, get rid of them quickly, or maybe catch a bunch at once? Pick a method that matches your goal and, honestly, double-check your local laws before you start. If you’re aiming for humane relocation, grab a live cage trap that’s the right size, and always check the rules where you live. If you need a quick kill, snap or tube traps can work, but you’ve got to be careful to keep pets and people safe.
Here, I’ll walk you through the main types of traps, some basic setup ideas, and a few bait and placement tricks so you can handle the job safely and with a bit more confidence.
You’ll get a sense of which traps work best for attics, gardens, or even those pesky squirrels raiding bird feeders, plus how to set them up to avoid escapes or catching the wrong critters.
Types of Squirrel Traps
Let’s talk about the options. You’ve got humane live traps, lethal kill traps, tube-style tunnel traps, and those multi-catch or specialty setups.
Each one has its own pros and cons—some are safer, some are quicker, and some are just better for the squirrels (if you care about that).
Live Squirrel Traps (Humane Options)
Live squirrel traps keep the animal alive so you can relocate it somewhere else.
Usually, these are wire cage box traps—think Havahart-style or those heavy-duty welded cages.
They work for tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and even medium-sized rodents.
Set the live trap on a flat spot or right by a squirrel’s usual path.
For bait, shelled peanuts, sunflower seeds, or corn usually do the trick.
Set the trigger so the squirrel has to step all the way inside.
You really should check the trap every few hours; in a lot of places, same-day checks are required for humane reasons.
Pick a trap with smooth edges, an easy-release door, and sturdy mesh so your squirrel doesn’t escape.
If you’re short on space, folding models like the Gingbau-style are a nice bonus.
When you handle trapped squirrels, wear gloves—protects you and the squirrel.
Lethal Squirrel Traps (Kill Traps)
Lethal traps get rid of squirrels fast if you need a permanent fix.
The usual suspects are snap traps and body-gripping Conibear-style traps.
Snap traps made for bigger rodents can stop ground squirrel or attic problems if you use them right.
Keep lethal traps far from pets and kids.
Bait them with peanut butter or nuts, and put them along squirrel runways or by entry holes.
Always check your local laws—some places ban these traps or require permits.
Choose tough, well-made traps with clear safety features.
Snap traps and pro-grade squirrel rat traps work fast, but they’re riskier.
Check lethal traps often and handle dead animals according to your area’s rules.
Tube Traps and Tunnel Traps
Tube traps or tunnel traps have a narrow cylinder that lets a squirrel in but not out.
Most metal tube traps use a one-way door or a spring to catch or kill, depending on the style.
Set tube traps on feeders, along fences, or near burrows.
A 15-inch steel tube usually fits most tree and ground squirrels.
Wildlife-supply brands make these traps rust-resistant and tough for outdoor use.
You can pick live or lethal tube traps—choose live if you want to release.
Anchor the tube so a trapped squirrel can’t drag it away.
Check tube traps often and use good bait for better luck.
Multi-Catch and Specialty Squirrel Traps
Multi-catch traps like the Rugged Ranch Squirrelinator can catch several squirrels before you empty them.
They’re handy if you’ve got a crowd of squirrels at your feeder or nesting under a shed.
Specialty traps include box traps for ground squirrels, A18-style traps for certain species, and even modified rat/squirrel combo traps for mixed problems.
Multi-catch traps usually use gravity or one-way doors to hold several squirrels at once.
You need to check these traps often and handle the animals humanely.
These work well if you’re allowed to relocate squirrels.
If you’re dealing with protected species or just can’t get rid of them, maybe it’s time to call a wildlife pro.
How to Trap Squirrels Effectively
You’ll need good bait, the right trap in the right spot, and some care when you finally catch a squirrel.
Follow a few basic steps so you trap them humanely and don’t end up with escapes or messes.
Best Bait for Squirrel Traps
Go with bait that squirrels already love.
Shelled peanuts, sunflower seeds, and corn are all winners because squirrels can grab them fast.
Use fresh, dry bait—wet or moldy stuff just doesn’t smell right to a squirrel.
Put the bait where the squirrel has to step all the way onto the trigger.
For tube or cage traps, make a little trail of bait leading in, then put the best piece behind the trigger plate.
For snap or enclosed traps, anchor the bait so the squirrel can’t just snatch it and run.
If one bait isn’t working, switch it up.
In spring, try fruit or cracked corn; in fall, go for nuts or whole peanuts.
Skip strong-smelling human foods that could attract the wrong animals.
Trap Placement and Setup Tips
Set traps near places where you see squirrels running—base of trees, garden beds, or under bird feeders.
Look for gnaw marks, droppings, or tracks to find their favorite routes.
Place traps against a solid surface so squirrels feel safe entering.
Secure traps to the ground or stake them down so a trapped squirrel can’t drag them off.
Camouflage traps with leaves or brush, but make sure the entrance stays clear.
Point cage traps along the path the squirrels already use for better odds.
Check traps at least twice a day.
Handle any trapped squirrels humanely and legally.
Wear gloves when handling traps and animals—protects you and keeps your scent off the bait.
Catching Ground Squirrels, Red Squirrels, and Flying Squirrels
Ground squirrels stick to the ground, so put live cage or tunnel traps near burrow entrances and trails.
Bait with cracked corn, sunflower seeds, or peanut butter mixed with cornmeal.
Anchor traps right by the holes so the squirrels naturally go in.
Red squirrels like trees and small spaces.
Use smaller cage traps with shelled peanuts or sunflower seeds, and set them on low branches, at tree bases, or near nest holes.
Watch out for baby squirrels in spring—avoid trapping when young are still dependent.
Flying squirrels only come out at night.
Use small live traps on tree trunks or in rafters, bait with peanut butter and oats, and check traps at dawn.
A flashlight at night helps you spot activity and avoid catching the wrong animals, like bats.
DIY Squirrel Trap Ideas
You can make a simple live trap with a one-door box or crate. Prop it open with a stick and put bait inside. Tie a string to the stick, so you can pull it and trip the trap from a safe distance.
I’d use sturdy wood and make sure there aren’t any sharp edges. Toss some sunflower seeds or apple pieces at the far end to lure the squirrel all the way in.
For ground squirrels, try a PVC tunnel trap. Just use a short pipe with a trip plate, or maybe a weighted door that snaps shut once the animal steps inside.
Make sure the pipe’s wide enough for the squirrel but not too big. Drill a few holes for ventilation. I always test the trigger a few times before setting it out—false alarms are annoying.
Don’t mess with lethal traps that might cause suffering. If you’re not sure about your trap’s design or if it’s even legal, I’d just grab a commercial live trap like a Havahart cage or talk to a pro.
If you want more trap ideas or bait suggestions, check out this guide to the best squirrel traps and baits.
