Make sure that the cage is large enough to hold a squirrel. In general, it should be at least 16 in (41 cm) long, 5 in (13 cm) wide, and 5 in (13 cm) high. [2] X Research source If you’re up for a project, consider building a squirrel trap from things you might have lying around your home. This trapping method also works if you’re hunting for squirrels outside.
Don’t use meat or dairy products to attract the squirrel. These could make them sick.
This is also a good method if you’re hunting or trying to get squirrels off a large outdoor property.
Different traps might have different instructions, so follow the directions on the device you use. Be careful not to touch the platform inside the trap or the door will close.
Try not to spook the squirrels. Check the trap from far away if you can. If the trap is outside, look out your window instead of coming close. However, if the trap is in your attic or another indoor space, you might not be able to avoid creating a disturbance. If you don’t catch a squirrel within a week, try putting fresh bait into the trap or moving it to a new location.
Be patient. You may need to wait a minute or two for the squirrel to feel comfortable making a dash. Try walking away from the trap for a minute, then coming back once the squirrel has escaped. You may have heard that releasing the squirrel far away from your property is a good solution, but this isn’t true. The squirrel will probably find its way back, and it’s also harmful to the squirrel to be taken away from its home area. [8] X Research source
The corner of a room is the best spot because the squirrel won’t be able to escape. If there is nearby furniture that the squirrel could duck behind, move it before putting the food out. Keep a close eye on the spot, but don’t stay too close. The squirrel will probably not come over if you’re nearby. Stay quiet too. You don’t want to scare the squirrel away.
The gloves are just a precaution. If all goes well, you won’t be directly touching the squirrel.
Holding the blanket up is important because the squirrel will get spooked if it sees a human shape. You could also use a towel, sheet, or net if that’s what you have.
Don’t press down on the blanket or hold it with too much pressure. You don’t want to hurt the squirrel. Do not try to grab the squirrel if it isn’t wrapped up in the blanket. It might start biting. If it starts getting out, let it go so you don’t get bitten.
The squirrel will probably be struggling in the blanket. Do your best to keep it wrapped up without pressing hard on it. You might be tempted to bring the squirrel far away from your property to release it, but this isn’t the best plan. The squirrel will probably find its way back, and it’s also harmful for the squirrel to be taken away from its home area. [14] X Research source
