Every time you step outside, you probably spot a squirrel or two. But have you ever wondered what usually ends their lives? Honestly, the number one killer of squirrels in a lot of places is cars, with predators, disease, falls, and poisons not far behind. That actually matters—because with a few simple changes around your home, you might help cut down on these risks.
Let’s look at what these dangers really are, how you can spot them in your own yard, and a few practical ways to help squirrels out—or at least handle things safely if you do find one that’s died. You’ll find some straightforward tips here that you can actually use.
Main Causes of Squirrel Deaths
Squirrels face a handful of common threats, whether they’re darting through towns or hanging out in the woods. Traffic, disease, predators, and poisons—these top the list, and honestly, some of these dangers hit young squirrels even harder than adults.
Disease and Infections
Diseases like squirrelpox and other viral infections can take a squirrel’s life pretty fast. If you spot a squirrel with open sores, hair loss, or swollen eyes and feet, it might have squirrelpox (squirrel pox virus).
That virus hits red squirrels the hardest, and it spreads from grey squirrels, which can carry it without even looking sick.
Bacterial infections and parasites also play a role. Things like adenovirus and coccidia can mess up a squirrel’s gut, causing diarrhea or stopping them from getting the nutrients they need.
Leprosy bacteria have even turned up in some red squirrel groups, causing swelling and skin issues.
Young squirrels and those in rough shape are especially vulnerable. You can help slow the spread by not feeding squirrels in big groups and by reporting sick ones to local wildlife folks. If you want to dig deeper, here’s a good resource on squirrel mortality: wildlifeonline.me.uk.
Predation by Animals and Pets
Predators claim a lot of squirrels each year. Birds of prey—think hawks and owls—snatch adults when they’re out in the open.
On the ground, foxes, pine martens, and badgers wait near dens to ambush them.
Your own pets can be a threat, too. Cats often catch young or weaker squirrels, and dogs sometimes chase or injure adults.
Nest raids and even infanticide by other squirrels can make it tough for babies to survive.
If you want to help, try keeping tree branches connected so squirrels can travel safely, and keep cats indoors at dawn and dusk when squirrels are most active.
Poisoning and Environmental Hazards
Poisons and other human-created hazards kill a lot of squirrels, especially in cities and suburbs. Squirrels can eat rodent baits, slug pellets, and garden pesticides—or even poisoned rodents—and get sick or die.
They sometimes drink antifreeze or nibble on things with household chemicals, which is almost always fatal.
Cars are a huge danger, especially where busy roads cut through gardens or woods.
Falls from buildings, badly placed nest boxes, or slippery bird-feeder poles can kill, too. Open drains are another hidden hazard.
You can help by skipping chemical pesticides and storing trash securely. Place feeders in safe spots, and if you can, add bridges or branches to help squirrels cross roads.
How to Prevent Squirrel Deaths and What to Do With Dead Squirrels
You actually have some power to protect squirrels—just by removing common dangers and knowing what to do if you find a dead one. Small actions at home can make a difference, and sometimes it’s best to call in the pros.
How to Prevent Squirrel Deaths in Your Area
Start by ditching poisons and anything that brings sick animals into your yard. Skip rodent poisons and slug bait with metaldehyde, and keep insecticides away from where squirrels might find them.
Store birdseed and pet food in sealed containers, and pick up fallen fruit every day.
Keep your pets inside or on a leash, especially around dawn and dusk—that’s when squirrels are out and about.
Trim low branches and use wildlife-friendly baffles on feeders to cut down on falls and make it harder for predators to get close.
Look out for hazards near roads. Slow down if you see a lot of squirrel activity, and in winter, check under your car hood if you notice pawprints.
Talk with neighbors about avoiding outdoor poisons and traps—it’s easier to keep squirrels safe if everyone’s on board.
Safely Handling Dead Squirrels
Always put your own safety first. Grab some disposable gloves and use a shovel or tongs—don’t touch the squirrel directly.
Double-bag the carcass in heavy plastic, seal it up, and toss it in the trash if your local rules allow.
Wash your hands well with soap and water after you’re done, even if you wore gloves.
Clean any tools and surfaces with a bleach solution (one part bleach, nine parts water) or another household disinfectant.
If you don’t want to deal with it, you can leave roadkill for scavengers or call your waste or wildlife office for pickup.
Some places don’t allow you to bury wildlife in your yard, so check local rules before you try.
When to Contact Wildlife Professionals
Call wildlife control or your local Department of Environmental Conservation if you notice a squirrel with open sores, strange behavior, foaming at the mouth, or staggering. If you come across several dead squirrels in the same area, that’s another red flag.
Professionals can check for rabies, squirrel pox, or rodenticide poisoning. If you find a carcass in a public spot, near a playground, or inside a building, reach out to animal control or public health.
For trapped or nest-bound animals, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. That way, you avoid hurting yourself or the animal.
If you think several animals got poisoned, let local authorities know. Snap a few photos and note the exact spot—officials can act faster with that info.
