Catching a squirrel can be surprising, especially if it has made your home its temporary playground. When you catch a squirrel, your priority should be to handle the situation safely and humanely. Squirrels can be tricky creatures, and while they might seem cute, they can cause damage to your home if they are not removed properly.
After trapping a squirrel, it’s important to know the next steps. You should avoid trying to handle the squirrel directly, as this can be dangerous. Instead, familiarize yourself with local wildlife removal guidelines to ensure you handle the situation in a way that protects both you and the squirrel.
Remember, your goal is not just to remove the squirrel but also to keep your space safe from future furry visitors. Understanding how to prevent their return is just as crucial as the initial catch. Engaging with wildlife removal services can help you set up measures to deter future visits and maintain a peaceful home environment.
Preparing to Catch a Squirrel
Before you catch a squirrel, it’s important to be ready. This means selecting the right trap, identifying where the squirrels are active, and choosing the best bait. Getting these steps right will make your task easier and more effective.
Selecting the Right Squirrel Trap
When choosing a squirrel trap, look for a humane live trap. These traps allow you to capture squirrels without harming them. Make sure the trap is big enough for different types of squirrels, like gray squirrels and red squirrels.
Check for a trap that has a strong door mechanism. This will prevent squirrels from escaping once they enter. Look for a trap with good ventilation to keep the squirrel comfortable. Many traps are designed for easy baiting, which can save you time.
Identifying Squirrel Activity
To catch a squirrel, you first need to find where they are. Look for signs of activity around your home, especially near bird feeders or gardens. Squirrels often leave chew marks on wood or plants they are feeding on.
Observe the areas where you see the most movement. Pay attention to the times of day when squirrels are most active, usually early morning or late afternoon. Check trees, attics, and yards for nests or pathways. This can help you choose the best location for your trap.
Choosing the Bait
Bait is key to attracting squirrels to your trap. One of the best options is peanut butter. Its strong smell and sticky texture make it hard for squirrels to resist.
You can also use birdseed, nuts, or fruits as bait. Place the bait at the back of the trap to ensure the squirrel fully enters. Make sure to check the bait regularly to keep it fresh. Remember, a good food source will draw them in quickly.
Safely Capturing and Relocating Squirrels
When you catch a squirrel, it’s essential to handle the situation with care to ensure the safety of both you and the animal. Proper setup and humane practices can help minimize stress for the squirrel and lead to a successful relocation.
Setting Up the Trap
Using a live trap is one of the best methods for trapping squirrels. Choose a trap that is suitable for small animals, ensuring it’s sturdy and has a door that closes quickly.
- Bait the trap: Use enticing food like peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or fruit. Place the bait at the back of the trap to encourage the squirrel to enter fully.
- Position the trap wisely: Set the trap where you’ve seen squirrel activity, such as near trees or feeding spots. Make sure it’s on flat ground for stability.
- Monitor frequently: Check the trap regularly to avoid leaving the squirrel trapped for too long, which can cause stress.
Humane Handling After Capture
Once you have trapped the squirrel, approach the situation kindly. Stress can significantly impact the animal, so here are some important tips for handling:
- Cover the trap: Use a cloth to cover the trap. This helps to calm the squirrel by reducing its visual stimuli.
- Transport carefully: Hold the trap securely and avoid sudden movements. Keep the trap upright to prevent injury to the squirrel.
- Limit exposure: Try to minimize the time the animal spends in the trap. This reduces stress and helps maintain its health.
Understanding Relocation Guidelines
Relocating a squirrel is not just about moving it to another area; there are important factors to consider. Here’s what you need to know:
- Distance matters: Move the squirrel at least 5-10 miles away from its original location to prevent it from returning.
- Choose the right habitat: Relocate the squirrel to a suitable environment with trees and food sources. Avoid areas that are overcrowded with other squirrels, as this can lead to conflict.
- Consider mother squirrels: If you’ve caught a mother squirrel with babies, it’s best to leave her alone. You should avoid relocating her to prevent her from being separated from her young.
Following these steps can help ensure a safe and humane capture and relocation of squirrels, promoting their well-being and your peace of mind.
