Squirrel Traps

You may legally destroy grey squirrels if they are damaging your property, trees or crops; but only by approved humane methods.

You may legally set traps for grey squirrels but you must take all reasonable precautions to avoid catching, injuring or killing fully or partly protected wild creatures such as hedgehogs and birds.

Dealing with problem grey squirrels

It is illegal to release grey squirrels or allow grey squirrels to escape back into the wild once captured.

It is illegal to possess or transport a live grey squirrel without a licence.

The relocation of grey squirrels is illegal, it is considered inhumane and can spread diseases from one area to another. Do not be tempted to do it as anyone caught could be prosecuted and fined!

Releasing grey squirrels

In areas where red squirrels are likely to be present, only live catch traps shall be used. If inadvertently caught, red squirrels must be released unharmed as soon as possible.

If there is a likelihood of catching other protected or partly protected animals or birds, it is also advisable to use a live catch trap.

Live Catch Cage Traps

Live catch cage traps can be used in woodland, parks and gardens as well as inside buildings in loft spaces. They are considered to give their best results when deployed in numbers around a pre-baited area.

This type of trap is usually set on the ground and has accounted for many grey squirrels - but they do have drawbacks!

Spring Traps

(Lethal or Killing Traps)

By definition, spring traps are potentially dangerous and should be handled with care. All traps are indiscriminate but lethal traps do not take prisoners!

Strict legal guidelines apply to the use of spring traps and the potential risk of killing or maiming non-target animals and birds must be considered carefully before they are used. It is a requirement that spring traps shall be placed inside a suitable tunnel or have their entrance protected by a tunnel.

Choosing a trap