Humane squirrel traps that actually work: Catch and release with confidence

Squirrels are small, playful creatures. However, when they enter the house or attic through vents, or invade the garden, creating serious problems. They hither and thither at night bouncing on the metal pipes which disturbs sleep. These little bushy pests make areas smelly because they poop everywhere like rats. They are known to chew electrical wires, destroy insulation, roof shingles and garden bulbs and fruits of the plants.

According to research, in America, wildlife including squirrels, causes power outages which affect 13 million people annually. Because of these consequences, people use traps but mostly prefer humane squirrel traps that can be captured without hurting them. This is an ethical way to catch so that no legal law of wildlife protection is violated.

Why Choose Humane Squirrel Traps?

When there is an issue with squirrels in the garden and the home, the first reaction is to figure out how to remove them. However, it is essential to eliminate them in an ethical and humane manner.

Ethical Wildlife Control

Every animal has its role in nature, and squirrels are a part of the ecosystem too. To control the population ethically, it is necessary to emphasize the safe solutions without harming the animals. 

That’s why humane traps are considered mostly because they catch the squirrel alive without any injury. This is a method which shows kindness and empathy for animal's lives and safety of the environment.

Local Laws And Regulations

Killing or torturing wildlife in most countries and states raises legal concerns. That’s why it is important to follow the specific regulations for trapping and relocating them. 

However, some states require a permit or license for trapping. Laws also vary depending on the methods of trapping that are humane or lethal. In most cases, humane trapping is allowed according to law. For example:

• California: License is required to trap grey squirrels, and must use humane methods.
• Florida: Squirrels may be trapped, but removing them must be done with permission from a wildlife agency.
• New York: Squirrel trapping is regulated, and there’s a strong focus on treating them humanely.  

Humane Traps Vs Harmful Methods

Harmful methods are dangerous not only for animals, but also for humans. It can cause issues such as disease, legal trouble and unnecessary guilt.

• Poisons: Squirrels die slowly and painfully, their bodies can be hard to find, and there’s a risk of bad smells or spreading disease.
• Glue Traps: Squirrels become stuck and are left to suffer for hours and even sometimes experience a long painful death.
• Lethal Snap Traps: These can kill instantly, but if the trap doesn’t work perfectly, the squirrel might endure serious injuries and more suffering.
• Drowning or DIY Kill Methods: These may be illegal and most importantly are considered very inhumane.

Humane traps are modern, mindful, and eco-friendly solutions to trap the squirrels. It is the best option, to keep the squirrels away from home without cruelty and bad smells.

• Live Cage Traps: Live cage traps designed to catch and release wildlife without harming them or causing them stress.
• No Injury or Pain: Squirrels remain unharmed, and people can release them easily.
• Reusable & Cost-effective: Buy it once, and can use it multiple times.
• Legally Safer Option: This method is legal and recommended in most areas.

Humane Squirrel Removal Methods

Keeping squirrels away without harming them may seem challenging, but some methods are effective and humane. These are:

• Live Traps
• Ultrasonic Repellent
• Motion-Activated Sprinklers
• Natural Repellents

1. Live Traps

It is a small cage for capturing squirrels alive by putting tasty bait inside for them. This cage is a rectangular box which is approximately 12*12*32 inches long, with spring-lock doors. 

Squirrels have a broad diet, using nuts, pieces of carrot, or apple slices as bait to attract them. The moment a squirrel enters the cage to eat the bait, the door closes automatically without hurting it. Relocate trapped squirrels far away from the house to a safe place.

2. Ultrasonic Repellent

It is a small, smart, and modern electronic device which produces high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves are irritating to squirrels but inaudible for humans. Whenever a squirrel enters a range of these disturbing waves, it becomes uncomfortable and runs away. 

In ultrasonic devices there is not any chemical or poison and it does not injure animals. It repels naturally through the use of sound. This device can easily be installed in the attic, garden, or garage. It is a non-violent and smart tech solution where some models are also solar powered. 

3. Motion-Activated Sprinklers

It is a super smart sprinkler which is specifically designed to detect the movement of animals including squirrels. Then it speedily sprinkles a jet of water at them. So, the squirrel gets scared by the burst of water and quickly runs away from there. 

This method is totally safe for squirrels, just giving them a slight shock so that they are afraid to come back in the future. The best part is this sprinkler is an environmentally friendly device that can work day and night.

4. Natural Repellents

Natural repellents are a simple and chemical-free approach without using traps or machines. Squirrels have a strong sense of smell, and certain natural substances really bother them. Use kitchen stuff like red chili flakes, crushed garlic, vinegar sprays, peppermint oil, or black pepper. 

Squirrels hate the strong scent of these natural substances, which is why they stay away. Make a spray with these ingredients and apply it to spots where squirrels hang out, like plant pots, fences, bird feeders, or attic corners. This method just repels squirrels without hurting them, making it a humane and eco-friendly choice.

Top 5 Squirrel Traps Picks

Here are the top 5 squirrel traps available at Growcycle that are effective, humane, and easy to use. These traps work efficiently to keep the garden, attic, or backyard squirrel-free.

1. IMG Squirrel Repellent Granular

IMG Squirrel Repellent Granular is a natural, pet-safe option made for people who are fed up with squirrels' mess. The granular formula is super targeted for squirrels as compared to liquid repellent. These granules are designed in a way that when squirrels start digging to get bulbs so granules activate immediately at that time. These granules contain natural botanical oils, which smell irritates squirrels but not for humans.

This repellent not only protects bulbs and seeds but also keeps flower beds, lawns, and potted plants safe from damage. It’s humane and environmentally friendly, doesn’t use chemicals, poisons or odors, so it’s safe for pets and pollinators. In fact, even the professionals use it when it comes to safeguarding flowers from wave erosion thanks to the health-conscious functionalities and premium quality it has.

2. Rugged Ranch Squirrelinator Live Trap

The Rugged Ranch Squirrelinator Live Trap is perfect for those who want to catch squirrels or other small wildlife without harming them. Its design is very clever so that squirrels can enter into the cage without feeling scared. The double door system makes it easy to enter which increases the chance of trapping. Trap is built with strong metal wire that’s tough but light enough to carry around without a hassle. 

Moreover, it comes with a handy waste basin to keep things clean and hygienic. What makes this trap stand out is its ability to catch up to 25 squirrels at once if set up right with their favorite food. It is great for both home gardens and larger properties. All in all, it’s a reliable option for humanely catching and releasing squirrels.

3. Havahart Easy Set Cage Trap

The Havahart Easy Set Cage Trap is a pretty simple to use and humane option for catching squirrels, rabbits etc. Trap is easy to set up or release also for new users, just by pulling a lever. Moreover, inner edges are designed very smooth to keep animals safe from injury. The spring-loaded door and sensitive trigger system works together to catch animals only of the right size, and decrease accidental triggers.

Additionally, it is made with galvanized wire mesh that resists traps from rust and corrosion. So it stays durable and works great for outdoor use. People call it a game-changer for live animal traps, especially for first-timers. Plus, the release mechanism is so straightforward that animals go without stress or getting too close.

4. Gonzo Safe Haven Live Catch Trap

The Gonzo Safe Haven Live Catch Trap is quite big. This live cage trap is intended for easy transportation of multiple ground squirrels with two entry doors. Sized at 23x 23x 4 inches, it’s fairly large and won’t scare off everyone’s squirrels.This cage is made from heavy-duty galvanized steel wire and welded steel rods, which is great against outdoor weather. 

The shielded handles help to lift and move it safely without touching the animals inside. The Gonzo Safe Haven not only catches squirrels without harming them but also makes relocating them easier, which is key for ethical wildlife control.

5. Squirrel Stopper Repellent Trigger

The Squirrel Stopper Repellent is a ready-to-use liquid spray made just for chasing off squirrels. It is made with plant-based, natural ingredients that smell nice, without any harsh chemicals. Check and then spray where bushy tail squirrels are building nests, munching on plants, or trying to enter into the house. 

Each spray stays effective for about 30 days, even through rain, watering, or cloudy weather. No worries to use around kids, pets, and veggie gardens. This repellent doesn’t just stop rodents from foraging or nesting, it also prevents them from damaging the garden. It comes in a handy trigger spray bottle that’s super easy to use; just apply a light, fine mist wherever it needs.

Tips To Trap Squirrels

When squirrels get into the house or garden, they can cause a lot of trouble. Trapping them safely is a good way to solve the problem.

Trap Squirrels In the Backyard

The best way  to trap squirrels in the backyard is to place the live cage trap near common areas, such as plants, fruits, and bird feeders. Choose the cage which is large enough, 10-15 inches in size. Place the trap with bait on the: 

• Edge of the garden 
• Under the tree 
• The entrance point of the squirrel

Be careful while placing the trap and remove excessive leaves and distractions so that the squirrel comes straight to eat the bait. Remember, morning and evening is the best time to catch them because they are highly active at that time.

Trap Squirrels in the Attic

Plan carefully the best squirrel trap for attic because they start breeding there and can cause fire hazard by chewing wires. Before placing the trap check the attic if there is a baby squirrel present or not. Place traps on 

• Those spots where squirrel noises hear mostly
• Near insulation piles or beams

In that case, use a small size of cage which can easily fit in narrow spaces. Check the cage regularly so that squirrels are not confined for so long.

Trap Squirrels Around Trees or Roof Entry Points

Squirrels often enter the house through the trees and the roof. Therefore, it is essential to block their entry points with the aid of traps. Traps must be outdoor weather resistant and for bait use bread with jam and nuts. Set up traps

• Under the trees
• Along fence lines
• In spots where squirrels jump into area

Trimming tree branches is a smart move, and after trapping, sealing roof vents and cracks with steel mesh is key to stopping future infestations, and release with the help of squirrel relocation tips.

The Bottom Line 

Squirrels, when entering into the garden or backyard, often cause problems. By using the right tools and humane squirrel trapping methods, one can easily get rid of them. Whether using live traps or safe natural repellents, the main goal in every approach is to catch the squirrel alive and release them away without causing any pain. 

Get reliable and tested squirrel control products from Growcycle marketplace. Find trusted brand humane traps and a wide range of effective repellents here as all products are eco-friendly, pet safe, and have proven results to make the garden safe and squirrel-free.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.