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Kill Squirrels: Humane, Poison, Traps & Exclusion Tips (2023)

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Are you looking for a humane way to get rid of pesky squirrels? Whether you’re battling an infestation or just want to protect your home from future invasions, there are various methods that can help.

In this article, we’ll cover the most effective ways on how to kill squirrels – including live trapping, exclusion techniques, and even poison traps.

So if it’s time to take back control of your property from these furry pests, then read on.

Key Takeaways

how to kill squirrels

  • Lethal methods such as kill traps and electric shockers should only be used as a last resort for squirrel removal.
  • Live trapping is the most effective and humane method for removing squirrels from properties.
  • Proper placement of traps and baits is crucial for successful squirrel removal.
  • Regular maintenance and the use of exclusion techniques can prevent squirrel entry and infestations.

Killing Squirrels Humanely

Killing Squirrels Humanely
When it comes to humanely removing squirrels from your home, live trapping is the safest and most effective method for getting rid of them.

Humane relocation involves baiting techniques such as Trappers Choice Pecan Paste and mixed bird seed, which attract squirrels into a cage trap. Exclusion traps should be set up closest to where they are entering or actively foraging in order to capture them quickly.

Flying squirrels may require different baits like sunflower seeds and Nite Flyer trailing scent, while larger green live traps work better with gray squirrels. Multi-catch repeater traps can also come in handy when dealing with multiple individuals at once.

Excluding these rodents using copper wool or sealing foam is another option. PUR foam even includes a strong deterrent against chewing animals. However, this will only keep additional ones out rather than remove existing ones already inside the walls or attic space.

For those more determined cases, you might consider lethal methods such as Bodygrip 55/110 Traps (which must be placed correctly) or electric shockers powered by electricity/batteries, which deliver a quick yet humane death without suffering thanks to their high voltage current emission capability.

Lastly, sound deterrent devices like ultrasonic systems emitting an unpleasant noise within a 70 feet range around its source prove useful too. They scare away any nearby critters without causing harm through audible audio playback accompanied by flashing light bars whenever activated.

All things considered, live trapping remains the best approach when looking after wildlife management needs. But if necessary, alternative exclusionary strategies along with lethal options exist, allowing us safe removal of troublesome pests from our homes, premises, and gardens alike.

Live Trapping Squirrels

Live Trapping Squirrels
If you’re looking to humanely remove squirrels from your home, live trapping is the most effective and cost-efficient way. To get started, it’s important to know what baits work best for different types of squirrels as well as which traps are suitable for their size.

For gray and flying squirrels, Trappers Choice Pecan Paste or mixed bird seed can be used in combination with economy traps or larger green live cages where applicable. Multi-Catch Repeaters may also prove useful if several individuals need relocating at once.

Trapping Tips

To successfully trap squirrels, it’s important to use the right bait and traps for your situation, along with proper placement.

When trapping tree squirrels in particular:

  1. Locate trapping locations near entry points or where they are actively searching for food.
  2. Utilize baiting methods such as pecan paste and bird seed to attract them.
  3. Choose appropriate trap types depending on the size/species of the target animal.
  4. Consider multi-catch repeater traps if needing long-term control without rat poison being used regularly at the same spot over time due to regulations in some areas prohibiting the relocation of wild animals captured by commercial trappers too!

Best Bait

For trapping squirrels, Trapper’s Choice Pecan Paste and mixed bird seed are popular baits that entice even the wariest critters into a cage or body grip trap. However, for more effective results in controlling these animals, there are various traps available along with sealing foam to prevent further entry.

Multi-catch repeater traps can be used when longer-term control is needed without poison being used regularly at the same spot due to regulations prohibiting relocation of wild animals captured by commercial trappers too! Springtime offers an ideal opportunity as they become active and seeking food sources – so using lethal traps like rat snap trap or Bodygrip 55/110 may help you get rid of them quickly!

Best Trap

You have several options when it comes to choosing the best trap for squirrels. Economy traps, multi-catch repeaters, and body grip kill traps are all humane methods of trapping techniques.

To successfully catch a squirrel, use Trapper’s Choice Pecan Paste or mixed bird seed as bait.

For longer-term control, consider using a multi-catch trap equipped with trip pan technology.

Lethal traps, such as rat snap traps or Bodygrip 55/110, can also provide quick results. However, they should be used carefully according to regional regulations on wild animal relocation if applicable.

With careful consideration given to your choice in both bait and trapping method, you’ll ensure success in capturing those pesky critters!

Multi-Catch Traps

Multi-catch traps equipped with trip pan technology can quickly and humanely capture multiple squirrels at once, preventing them from returning to the area. Placement is key for effectiveness. Set up the trap near entry holes or food sources used by squirrels.

Bait options include Trapper’s Choice Pecan Paste and mixed bird seed for gray squirrels. For flying squirrels, use sunflower seeds and Nite Flyer attractant. There are several types of multi-catch traps available.

Choose one based on your target species size, such as the 5x5x16 Green Live Trap. Lethal traps like rat snap or Bodygrip 55/110 provide quick results but must be employed responsibly according to regional regulations on wild animal relocation, if applicable.

Excluding Squirrels

Excluding Squirrels
If you’re looking to keep squirrels out of your home, one effective method is using copper wool. Copper wool acts as a barrier against rodents and does not rust or break down easily. Sealing foam can also be used to seal small openings in attics, but for extra protection against chewing animals, PUR foam with deterrent refill expands more and has an added strong deterrent factor.

Copper Wool

Copper wool is an easy and effective way to keep squirrels out of your home – just lay it around the area where they’re active. Copper wool benefits include its durability, rust resistance, and inability to be chewed through by rodents.

The installation process involves cutting off pieces of copper wool with scissors or snips that fit into openings, like the route of entry for squirrels in walls or attics.

Maintenance tips suggest regularly checking on copper wool placements every few weeks as needed due to wear and tear from weathering outside elements.

Alternatives, such as lethal traps, green live traps, and ultrasound repellers, can also provide unique solutions for controlling animal activity. However, DIY solutions may not always be a good idea when dealing with wildlife control issues in residential settings.

Sealing Foam

Using professional sealing foam and an applicator gun for larger openings, you can create a barrier that will help keep squirrels out of your home. Sealing foam is available in two sizes: small cans and 25 oz cans. The latter requires an applicator gun for application.

Benefits of using sealing foam include its cost-effectiveness compared to other methods, such as lethal traps or effective poisons. It also has the ability to form a strong seal around entry points like holes near fruit trees, where squirrels are likely to enter.

Safety should be taken into consideration when applying this type of material due to the potential inhalation hazards associated with it if not done properly. Professional sealing foams also provide extra protection against chewing animals by including deterrent refills when expanding more than regular foams do.

However, kill trapping may still be necessary if infestations persist despite these measures being taken.

With proper installation and maintenance, professional sealing foam is one way you can effectively exclude unwanted pests from your property without needing lethal traps or costly exterminators.

PUR Foam

PUR foam is a great option for effectively sealing small openings and keeping squirrels out, as it expands more than regular foam and includes a deterrent refill for extra protection. Its application requires the use of an applicator gun to ensure accuracy when filling in cracks or crevices.

Unlike lethal traps or poisons, PUR foam poses no risk or harm to people, pets, or other wildlife such as flying squirrels. It also provides control against all types of pest sizes – from ants to larger animals like deer – without worrying about overkill with large amounts of poison being used on smaller-sized animals like mice and rats.

Furthermore, its cost-effectiveness makes it attractive compared to expensive exterminators who may require multiple visits that can add up quickly over time. PUR foams offer superior sealing techniques, which greatly reduce the chances of re-infestation while proving durable enough for long-term results regardless if you’re dealing with grey squirrels in attics or any other type of unwanted pests around your home property.

Additionally, they come equipped with various deterrent methods suitable for different scenarios, making them one powerful tool amongst many available options on today’s market!

Kill Traps

Kill Traps
If you want to quickly and humanely control the squirrel population, then kill traps are an ideal solution. The Bodygrip trap is a professional-grade device that uses strong springs to effectively capture squirrels without injury.

Pipe traps take advantage of their natural curiosity by using bait inside a tube, which can be triggered when they enter it. Electric traps use lethal shock as a humane way of killing but require careful placement for maximum effectiveness.

Bodygrip Trap

If you’re looking for an effective and humane way to quickly remove squirrels from your property, consider using a bodygrip trap like Bodygrip 55 or 110. These lethal traps are suitable for local regulations and provide a painless death with minimal suffering.

To ensure success, proper placement is essential. Place the trap along routes of entry where squirrels have been active or alongside their food sources. Selecting the right bait can also increase efficacy. Trappers Choice Pecan Paste mixed with sunflower seeds works well, as do nuts and apples.

As electric shock methods may be more cost-effective in some cases, it’s important to choose wisely based on local restrictions.

With careful consideration given to bait selection and placement tips, body grip kill traps offer one of the most effective ways to manage pesky squirrel populations while still being mindful about animal welfare concerns.

Pipe Trap

Try a pipe trap for squirrel control – it’s an easy and humane way to take advantage of their natural curiosity.

Pipe traps are designed with two arms that join together at the end, forming a cylinder or tube shape with one large open end. These durable lethal traps can be used in large open attics as well as outdoor settings like trees and sheds.

Trap placement is key when using these devices. Set them up along routes where eastern gray squirrels or fox/time tree squirrels have been active, near food sources such as bird feeders, berries, and nuts, for maximum success rate.

Bait types vary from Pecan Paste mixed with sunflower seeds to apples and other fruits.

Electric shock methods may also be more cost-effective in some cases but should only be employed after consulting authorities about any relevant regulations on humane killing techniques in your area first.

With careful consideration given to bait selection & trap placement tips, pipe traps offer an effective yet humane solution for controlling unwanted rodent populations without compromising animal welfare standards!

Electric Trap

Electric traps offer an efficient and humane way of controlling squirrels, delivering a lethal shock in the blink of an eye. These deadly devices are designed to swiftly end their lives without a painful death or the lingering dead squirrel stench that can linger for weeks after removal.

Safety guidelines must be followed when using electric traps as they pose potential risks to humans and other animals if not handled properly.

Proper trap placement is essential for success — locate them near food sources or commonly traveled routes where rodents have been active previously.

Dead Squirrel Odor

Dead Squirrel Odor
If you have a dead squirrel in your wall or attic, odor eliminating agents can help mitigate the smell. NNZ and N7C are two of the most effective options for treating up to 800 sq/ft of surface area; while NNZ is odorless, N7C has a slight aroma that indicates its effectiveness.

Placement should be as close as possible to where the squirrel died, and renewal every few days until decomposition is complete will help keep odors at bay.

Odor Eliminating Agents

You can use odor eliminating agents like NNZ and N7C to neutralize the odors from dead squirrels in walls or attics. Both products are effective at treating up to 800 sq/ft of surface area, with NNZ being odorless while having a slight aroma for indication of effectiveness with the latter.

Application techniques should be done closest to where the squirrel has died and renewed every few days until full decomposition is observed. For optimal results, consider using professional sealing foam as an extra layer of protection against future infestations.

This will also keep other wildlife rehabilitators away from your open bird feeder if you offer various kinds of bird seed on it.

Opting for lethal traps is not recommended since trapping allows relocation far enough away so that another cannot occupy its territory again.

Placement

Proper placement of traps is key when dealing with squirrels, so make sure you place them along the critters’ route of entry or where they’re actively foraging.

Trappers Choice Pecan Paste and mixed bird seed can attract gray squirrels, while sunflower seeds and Nite Flyer may be used as a trailing scent to draw in flying ones.

If you’re using multi-catch traps (also known as repeaters), choose one with wire spacing that doesn’t exceed 1/2 x 1 for flying squirrels.

For effective control, try the 5x5x16 Green Live Trap or the 7x7x24 Green Live Trap. The former works well on both types of rodents, whereas the latter is best suited for grey ones only.

Copper wool has proven successful at keeping furry visitors away from your bird feeder by blocking their access to it.

Finally, lethal traps like Bodygrip 55 or 110 should be considered as the ultimate option in case all else fails.

Sound Repellents

Sound Repellents
If you’re looking for a way to deter squirrels from your property, sound repellents are worth considering. Ultrasound devices emit high-frequency sound waves that are inaudible to humans but can be heard by animals such as rodents and squirrels.

Audible noise is also effective at chasing away unwanted critters; the light bar LED flashes when the unit is activated, providing both visual and auditory deterrence. Both methods can help keep grey squirrels out of attics or yards with ranges up to 70 feet.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound repellents can be an effective way to keep squirrels away from your attic or yard, utilizing their natural curiosity.

Ultrasound benefits include a range of up to 70 feet, which should cover most areas where squirrels may reside. When setting up the unit, it is important to consider nearby water sources. Ultrasound does not penetrate through these surfaces well and may not effectively repel the rodents if they are near one.

Humane alternatives, such as bird feeders or lethal traps that use electricity, offer quick control but require careful placement for maximum effectiveness around water sources too. Kill traps like Bodygrip 55/110 must also be set far enough away from any potential food source, yet close enough so that squirrels will come into contact with them when searching for food at night time.

Ultrasound repellents provide an additional layer of security together with other humane methods, making them a great choice in controlling nuisance wildlife like gray or flying squirrels while keeping both you and them safe!

Audible

Audible sound is another effective way to repel squirrels and can be used in combination with ultrasound repellents for an added layer of protection. Humane killing techniques, such as lethal traps or kill traps like the Bodygrip 55/110, require careful placement around water sources.

Exclusion techniques include multi-catch traps and bird feeders that use rat bait or pecan paste as a lure.

Odor neutralizing agents like NNZ and N7C should also be placed close to where the dead squirrel has been found in order to effectively mask any odors left behind from decomposition. Wood shavings strategically placed near entry points may help deter further infestation by rodents looking for food sources within walls or attics, while copper wool provides a strong deterrent against chewing animals due to its resistance against rusting and breaking down easily over time.

Audible sounds keep nuisance wildlife away without causing harm, allowing you greater control over your environment so you can enjoy it safely!

Preventing Entry

Preventing Entry
In order to prevent the entry of squirrels into your home, it is important to take preventive measures. Gutter guards can be installed in gutters and downspouts to block access points. Additionally, pathways that allow easy movement for squirrels should also be removed or blocked off with materials such as copper wool, which is resistant against chewing animals.

Gutter Guards

Gutter guards can be a great way to prevent squirrels from entering your home and wreaking havoc, as they provide an effective barrier against the animals. Even if the rodents manage to climb them, gutter guards are designed not to allow entry into your attic or roofline.

To ensure that you have properly installed protection types for your gutters, it’s best to hire a professional installer who specializes in the field. When selecting materials for gutter maintenance and installation of deterrents, consider metal mesh screens or clear plastic covers, which will help keep out small creatures like squirrels.

For added protection, use wood boards along with other material options such as chicken wire fencing around front yards where little critters might access roofs easily. But try not to set up lethal traps unless necessary, after seeking legal advice on wildlife management methods in certain regions, since relocating wild animals is prohibited by law in some areas.

Remove Pathways

Removing pathways is key to keeping squirrels from gaining entry into your home. Start by installing gutter guards and using rat bait around the perimeter of your property, especially near bird feeders.

In attics, use multi-catch traps or lethal traps if needed to remove any existing pests. Then, seal openings with professional sealing foam or PUR foam with deterrent refill.

If you have a yard, set up yard settings like electric squirrel traps that will deliver a lethal shock when triggered. Additionally, use ultrasound repellers powered by electricity or batteries. These emit high-frequency sounds over 70 feet away, which have been proven effective at deterring rodents from entering the area.

On rooftops where access points may be located for flying squirrels, consider placing kill traps such as Bodygrip 55 & 110 along their route of entry. Make sure to confirm the proper location before setting out these measures against them.

Taking all these steps together can provide peace of mind about potential critter problems on rooflines.

Best Settings

Best Settings
When it comes to killing squirrels, the most effective settings depend on where they are located. For instance, if you have a grey squirrel problem in your attic, you can use an ultrasound repeller with LED light bar flashes set at high frequency and low volume.

On the other hand, for controlling grey squirrel activity in your yard or garden area, setting up a low-frequency ultrasonic sound device is recommended. Finally, for both flying and gray squirrels alike, body grip kill traps should be placed carefully as their placement is critical to their effectiveness.

Attic

For attic squirrel infestations, set up traps with baits like Trapper’s Choice Pecan Paste and sunflower seeds to lure them in. The shining light of an electric trap can be a beacon of hope for successfully getting rid of these pesky critters.

To ensure effectiveness, you must make sure that all entry points are sealed off with materials such as copper wool or professional sealing foam. When trapping squirrels in the attic, use NNZ or N7C odor neutralizing agents near where they have died to eliminate any remaining odors.

Additionally, use repellent settings such as Ultra Sound Repellers, which can cover up to a 70-foot radius. Light Bar LED flashes when activated for extra protection against returning rodents.

For humane control methods, using lethal snap traps is not recommended. But if necessary, then place them close to trash cans where there is the least foot traffic around your house.

Be sure that no openings larger than 1/4 inch remain near rooflines, so they cannot enter through even the smallest crack above 10 feet from your roof line.

With proper care and attention, these techniques will help you solve your problem quickly!

Yard

In your yard, live trapping is the most effective way to get rid of any unwelcome squirrels. It’s also cost-efficient and easy. To prevent their entry in the first place, use sound repellents such as Ultra Sound Repellers.

These cover up to a 70-foot radius. For extra protection against returning rodents, use Light Bar LED flashes when activated. Additionally, ensure no openings larger than 1/4 inch remain near rooflines. This way, they cannot enter through even the smallest crack above 10 feet from your roof line.

As bait for trapping them out of sight, use Trapper’s Choice Pecan Paste mixed with bird seed. Proper placement of a bird feeder away from trees and shrubs where they may nest or hide during removal efforts is important.

If necessary, a multi-catch trap can help catch more than one at once. Professionals recommend using kill traps like Bodygrip 55 or 110. However, these traps should always be properly placed in order to achieve humane killing within seconds without causing harm to other animals nearby.

Occasionally, black squirrels may be attracted by an improperly placed bird feeder.

Contact us today if you need further assistance getting rid of these pesky critters!

Rat Bait Warning

Rat Bait Warning
Be careful when using rat bait as an alternative to trapping squirrels, as it can be dangerous if not used properly. Rat baits, such as those containing anticoagulants or other toxic ingredients, are intended only for rodents like rats and mice.

If these baits are used in areas populated by squirrels or other wildlife species, they may unintentionally harm the animals you weren’t expecting.

To avoid this issue altogether, consider the use of rodent proofing measures. This can include sealing openings with professional sealant foam, which is long-lasting and effective against chewing rodents.

Additionally, install sound deterrent devices to discourage nuisance animals from entering your home’s attic space or yard area.

If you decide to go ahead with trapping, select traps suitable for each pest situation. Body grip kill traps require proper placement, while live cages should have wire spacing no greater than 1/2 x 1 inch so smaller species won’t get caught inside them accidentally.

Choose a bait that will attract target pests, like Trappers Choice Pecan Paste mixed with bird seed for grey squirrels along their route entry points into buildings. When dealing with flying squirrel infestations in attics where active nests have been identified, employing scent trails of Nite Flyer scents is recommended.

Finally, incorporate odor eliminating agents such as NNZ or N7C for treatment areas up to 800 sq/ft. Apply these agents at least every few days until dead animal bodies completely decompose away from living quarters.

This provides longer-term relief from unwanted odors without having any lethal effect on the pests themselves.

Contact Us

Contact Us
If you have any questions about squirrel control, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re here to help! Our customer service hours are Monday – Friday from 9am-5pm EST.

You can also find helpful information on our website in the FAQs section or by contacting our online support team for professional assistance.

We strongly recommend that anyone considering using lethal traps familiarize themselves with specific laws and regulations regarding trapping of wildlife in their area first, as these may vary depending on location.

Additionally, when selecting a trap size, it is important to consider the entrance of the trap in relation to your target animal’s size. Smaller-sized traps should be used for flying squirrels, whereas bigger-sized traps should be used for grey squirrels if they need removal from a new home or building structure infested with them.

It is always best practice when possible and allowed by law. However, not all states allow relocation, so make sure you check local state regulations before doing so.

Lastly, we offer an array of repellents designed specifically for nuisance critters like rodents and wild animals. These include ultrasonic sound waves, which emit high-frequency noises meant only audible within range but harmless enough that even pets cannot hear them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most humane way to kill a squirrel?

The most humane way to kill a squirrel is with an electric trap, as it instantly delivers a lethal shock. It’s quick and painless, allowing the animal to pass peacefully while providing you control over their fate.

Symbolically speaking, this technique creates an atmosphere of liberation and power for those seeking a more ethical approach in dealing with wildlife conflict.

What is the best bait to use for live trapping a squirrel?

Trapping is the most humane way to remove squirrels from your home. For bait, use Trapper’s Choice Pecan Paste and mixed birdseed or sunflower seeds for flying squirrels in attics.

Are there any natural repellents to keep squirrels away?

Yes, natural repellents such as ultrasonic sound waves and audible sounds can help keep squirrels away. These methods are humane and cost-effective, providing a simple solution for protecting your property from unwanted pests.

How can I prevent squirrels from entering my home?

Are you seeking a method to prevent squirrels from entering your home? Consider utilizing ultrasonic repellers, audible sounds, or light bars.

Is there a way to reduce the odor of a dead squirrel?

Make sure to place odor eliminating agents like NNZ or N7C closest to where the squirrel has died. These solutions neutralize odors, with NNZ being virtually scentless and able to treat up to 800 sq/ft of surface area! Renew placements every few days until the squirrel’s body decomposes completely and your problem is solved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, controlling squirrels is a humane and effective way to eliminate them from your property. Live trapping is the most efficient method, but you must use the right bait and traps to ensure a successful capture.

Exclusion techniques, such as sealing foam, copper wool, and PUR foam, are an effective way to prevent entry.

For those looking for a quick and humane kill option, body grip traps, pipe traps, and electric traps are the best options.

Finally, to eliminate unpleasant odors, odor eliminating agents such as NNZ and N7C should be used.

Through proper knowledge and implementation of these techniques, you can keep your property free of squirrels and other unwanted pests.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and agriculture expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of people make their yards lush and thick.