Catching a grey squirrel can be surprising and may leave you wondering what to do next. The best choice is to ensure the squirrel’s safety and relocate it properly, while following local wildlife laws. Knowing how to handle the situation can help you avoid common pitfalls associated with squirrel problems, like potential harm to the animal or facing legal issues.
When you catch a grey squirrel, it’s important to approach the situation thoughtfully. Squirrels can carry diseases, and handling them carelessly can lead to bites or scratches. Always use gloves and a humane trap, making sure the animal is kept calm and safe while you decide on the next steps.
After you’re certain the grey squirrel is contained, consider your options for release. Many areas have guidelines on how far to relocate the squirrel and where it is permissible to do so. Understanding these rules not only helps you, but also supports wildlife removal efforts in your community, ensuring a balanced environment for both humans and animals.
Understanding Grey Squirrels
Grey squirrels are common in many areas and can be both interesting and sometimes troublesome. Knowing how to identify them and understanding their habitat and behavior can help you manage encounters effectively.
Identifying Grey Squirrels
Grey squirrels are medium-sized rodents with a bushy tail and large ears. They have grey fur, though some can have a reddish tint. Their underbelly is usually white or cream.
Key Features:
- Size: About 18 to 24 inches long, including the tail.
- Color: Predominantly grey with lighter shades underneath.
- Tail: Long and bushy, often used for balance and warmth.
When spotting these squirrels, baby squirrels are smaller and lack the bushy tails of adults. They typically nest in trees or on the grounds, making them a familiar sight in parks or yards.
Habitat and Behaviour
Grey squirrels thrive in a variety of habitats, including forests, parks, and suburban areas. They prefer areas with plenty of trees to provide shelter and a source of food.
Squirrel Activity:
- Nesting: They build nests, called dreys, in tree branches, made from twigs, leaves, and even moss.
- Food Sources: They mainly eat nuts, seeds, and fruits, but will also forage for bird feeders.
These squirrels are known for their agility in climbing and jumping. You might see them chasing each other or hoarding food for later use. Their social behavior includes communicating through vocalizations and scent marking, helping them interact with other squirrels.
Effective Squirrel Control Methods
Controlling grey squirrels can be done humanely and effectively. Understanding the right techniques will help you manage any squirrel issues without causing harm.
Humane Trapping Techniques
If you want to catch a squirrel without harming it, using a live trap is the best option. These traps allow you to capture squirrels safely so you can release them elsewhere. The traps come in various sizes but should be large enough for an adult squirrel.
For bait, peanut butter works well because it has a strong smell that squirrels find irresistible. Place the trap in areas where you’ve seen squirrel activity to increase your chances of success. After catching a squirrel, take it at least several miles away from your home before releasing it. This prevents the squirrel from returning.
Exclusion and Prevention
To prevent squirrels from getting into your home, it is essential to seal entry points. Inspect your house for holes or gaps, especially in areas like attics or basements. Use materials like metal mesh or hardware cloth to block these access points.
Make sure you also remove food sources around your home. Secure trash cans and avoid leaving pet food outside. Planting squirrel-proof plants can deter squirrels. Consider using bird feeders that prevent squirrels from feeding, as this will reduce their incentive to come close to your home.
Squirrel Repellents and Deterrents
If you’d like to deter squirrels from your yard or garden, consider using commercial squirrel repellents. These sprays typically contain ingredients that squirrels find unpleasant. Make sure to follow the instructions for best results.
Creating an environment that discourages squirrels can also help. Keeping your garden tidy and free of debris will make it less attractive to them. You can also use physical barriers like fencing or netting around gardens. This will help to keep squirrels out of areas where they might cause damage.
Implementing these methods can support effective squirrel control while ensuring that your approach is humane.
