In the quiet of dawn, a rustling echoes in your attic. The faint nibbling on your home’s timber structure punctuates the silence. The culprit? A bushy-tailed invader, the common squirrel.
These seemingly harmless creatures can become unwelcome guests, causing damage and potential health risks. But worry not; the solution lies in effective trapping, a humane and efficient method.
Table of Contents
Our Top Pick
The Amagabeli Garden & Home Humane Live Animal Trap is Our Top Pick due to its robust construction and humanely designed trapping mechanism. With dimensions that accommodate larger rodents, and a collapsible design for easy storage, it’s effective yet considerate of the animal’s well-being. Despite a few improvements needed, its overall reliability and success in capturing a variety of pests set it apart.
Buying Guide
Squirrel traps are specialized devices designed to humanely capture squirrels that may have invaded your personal spaces, like your attic or garden.
These traps are a non-lethal solution to manage the squirrel population around your property without causing harm to these small creatures.
Here is a generalized buying guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Effectiveness: The primary factor to consider is how effectively the trap captures squirrels. Look for traps specifically designed for squirrels with positive user reviews regarding their performance.
- Humane Treatment: Ensure the trap is designed to capture and hold squirrels without causing them harm. Look for features like smooth internal edges and a mechanism that doesn’t injure the squirrel upon triggering.
- Size and Construction: The trap should be sturdy and appropriately sized. A well-constructed metal trap is usually a good choice. It should be large enough to capture squirrels without allowing them to escape but small enough to be easily transported or stored.
- Ease of Use: The trap should be easy to set and safe to handle once a squirrel is captured. It should also be easy to release the squirrel without danger to you or the animal.
- Cost: Consider the price of the trap in relation to its quality and effectiveness. While you don’t want to overpay, investing in a high-quality trap can save you time and frustration in the long run.
1. Amagabeli Garden & Home Humane Live Animal Trap
Pros
- Large trap size designed for a wide range of animals.
- Made from sturdy, rust-resistant wire mesh with steel reinforcements for durability.
- Designed with the safety of the trapped animal in mind – smooth internal edges and exterior wire mesh.
- Collapsible and easy to store when not in use.
- Sensitive triggers for quick and secure captures.
Cons
- Assembly and operation might require greater force.
- It may not be suitable for smaller animals like kittens.
The Amagabeli Garden & Home Humane Live Animal Trap is a large, sturdy trap designed to capture a wide range of animals.
Its dimensions, 31″ X 10.5″X 11.5″, make it ideal for trapping larger rodent animals. The cage is constructed of rust-resistant wire mesh with steel reinforcements, ensuring its durability and longevity.
The trap is galvanized for maximum resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for use in different weather conditions.
The design of this trap emphasizes the humane treatment of animals. It features smooth internal edges and a wire mesh exterior, protecting the captured animal from injury.
The trigger rod is located outside of the trap, preventing the animal from damaging it while inside. The trap is collapsible and easy to store, making it a convenient option for those who may not need to use it regularly.
It is also easy to clean and sanitize, ensuring it can be used multiple times if necessary.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 31″ X 10.5″X 11.5″ Inches
- Color: Black
- Material: Wire mesh with steel reinforcements
- Pet Safe: Yes
- Manufacturer: Amagabeli Garden & Home
- Target Species: Squirrels
- Item Count: 1 Count
- Item Weight: 4.54 Kilograms
Customer Reviews
The Amagabeli Humane Live Animal Trap is recognized online for its effectiveness in capturing squirrels.
Users praise its humane approach and robust construction but note its inconsistent door, tripping mechanisms, and struggles with raccoons and possums.
Some users suggest design improvements, like a repositioned door handle, could enhance its performance.
Despite the trap’s comparable material quality to cheaper alternatives, it has an overly sensitive trigger and lacks a door lock, making setup and baiting a challenge.
It has been successful in trapping a range of animals, though some escapes have been reported.
Overall, it’s a decent option, though it may not satisfy those in areas with strict trapping laws.
Instructions to Use
- Open the trap by pulling it open from its collapsed state.
- Bait the trap with appropriate food depending on the target animal.
- Place the trap in an area where the target animal frequents.
- Check the trap regularly.
- Once an animal is captured, release it safely and humanely, following local wildlife laws and regulations.
Get the Amagabeli Garden & Home Humane Live Animal Trap on
2. Havahart Squirrel Trap
Pros
- Sturdy construction for lasting use.
- Designed with safety in mind, both for the user and the animal.
- Effective in capturing squirrels without harm.
- Easy to set up and use.
Cons
- It may require bait to attract squirrels.
- Potential for misfires or escape if not set up correctly.
- Larger animals might damage the trap.
The Havahart Squirrel Trap, manufactured by Havahart, is a safe, humane, and effective solution for managing pesky squirrels in your home or garden.
With dimensions of 24 x 7 x 7 inches, the trap provides ample space for the animal while ensuring it can’t escape. The product is made with durable galvanized steel, guaranteeing lasting use.
This design prioritizes the safety of both the user and the squirrel, making it a preferred choice for many homeowners.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 24 x 7 x 7 Inches
- Color: Green
- Material: Galvanized Steel
- Pet Safe: Yes
- Manufacturer: Havahart
- Target Species: Squirrels
- Item Count: 1Piece
- Item Weight: 4 Pounds
Customer Reviews
The Havahart Squirrel Trap has seen a surge in demand on e-commerce platforms thanks to its effective squirrel-trapping mechanism.
One satisfied customer shares, “I am thoroughly impressed with the Havahart Squirrel Trap. Its setup is a breeze, and from day one, it has been successful in capturing squirrels. The robust construction, featuring galvanized steel, ensures it stands up to the elements.”
Another user echoes this sentiment, stating, “The aspect I admire the most is its kind design; it allows for harmless squirrel capture, enabling me to relocate them securely. Attracting squirrels with the right bait required some effort occasionally, but that’s a minor challenge.”
In conclusion, it is a high-quality, trustworthy, and compassionate method for managing squirrels, earning it high recommendations.
Instructions to Use
- Choose a location along the path the squirrel takes.
- Set the trap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place bait inside the trap.
- Monitor the trap regularly.
- Once a squirrel is trapped, wear gloves and handle the cage carefully.
- Release the squirrel at a suitable location as per local regulations.
Get the Havahart Squirrel Trap on Amazon or Amazon or Walmart or Home Depot or supplyhog.com or countrymax.com or Lowe's or shop.rplumber.com or northerntrapping.com or toolboxsupply.com or acehardware.com or DoMyOwn or gilfordhardware.com
3. AB Traps Pro-Quality Live Animal Humane Trap
Pros
- Does not harm the trapped animal.
- Made from high-quality materials that withstand wear and tear.
- Suitable for trapping a variety of small to medium-sized animals.
Cons
- It may not be effective for larger animals or those adept at avoiding traps.
- Requires regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance.
The AB Traps Pro-Quality is a top-notch, single-door squirrel trap capable of capturing a variety of small rodents. It can be effectively used wherever squirrel activity is detected.
Constructed from durable wire mesh that resists damage from chewing, this ready-to-use trap is available in various sizes, with dimensions ranging from 10.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 inches to 16 x 7.5 x 7.5 inches.
One of its standout features is its humane design, ensuring the trapped rodent remains unharmed. The interior edges are rounded to avoid causing injury to the animals. Once trapped, the rodents can be released at a safe distance from your home.
The AB Traps Pro-Quality boasts a high capture rate due to its swift trigger mechanism and can be utilized both indoors and outdoors.
However, it’s worth noting that this trap may not be suitable for larger animals. Additionally, the wire mesh strength may not be as robust as some other commercial traps on the market.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: Variable
- Color: Metal Grey or Black
- Material: Metal
- Pet Safe: Yes
- Manufacturer: AB Traps
- Target Species: Squirrels
- Item Count: 1Piece
- Item Weight: Variable (depending on model)
Customer Reviews
The AB Traps Pro-Quality Live Animal Humane Trap is highly regarded for its effectiveness in trapping squirrels and larger rodents.
According to a satisfied user, the trap’s design lacks sharp edges, reducing the risk of harm to captured animals. Peanut butter is commonly recommended as bait because mice must lick it, increasing the likelihood of triggering the trap.
However, another user mentioned a drawback of the trap’s lack of a top opening, which makes it challenging to position the bait effectively.
Additionally, some users have noticed that the bait plate and hook are positioned too low, enabling mice to access the bait without triggering the trap. This could be attributed to cost-saving measures implemented by the manufacturer.
Instructions to Use
- Position the trap in an area frequented by the target animal.
- Bait the trap with food appropriate for the target species.
- Set the trap following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the trap at least once a day.
- Once an animal is captured, release it in an appropriate location as per local regulations.
- Clean the trap after each use to maintain its effectiveness.
Get the AB Traps Pro-Quality Live Animal Humane Trap on Amazon or Amazon or Walmart
4. Rugged Ranch Squirrelinator
Pros
- Multiple catch trap
- Easy to use and bait
- No assembly required
- Contains two doors and allows animals to enter from either door.
Cons
- Prone to having the paint chewed off
- It is a bit pricey
The Squirrelinator is a squirrel trap manufactured by Rugged Ranch, an American company specializing in rodent control products. This ready-to-use trap is designed to catch multiple squirrels quickly. It has 23.25″ x 23.25″ x 4″ dimensions and can catch up to 25 squirrels at once. Unlike other traps, it doesn’t require costly baits that may harm unintended animals or the environment.
The trap features two doors, allowing animals to enter from either side. It can be used with or without an optional basin, which can be purchased separately. The basin aids in drowning the trapped squirrels by filling the trap with water.
However, a minor drawback of the Squirrelinator is that the wire mesh is slightly too wide for smaller squirrels and rodents. This means that smaller animals can enter, steal the bait, and escape, reducing the trap’s effectiveness and missing opportunities to catch multiple rodents.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 24.25 x 24.25 x 5 Inches
- Material: Metal
- Pet safe: Yes
- Manufacturer: Horizon Distributions
- Target Species: Squirrels
- Item Count: 1 Piece
- Item Weight: 6.4 Pounds
Customer Reviews
The Rugged Ranch Products SQRTO Sq has gained popularity in E-Commerce stores for its effectiveness in trapping squirrels and rodents.
One user mentioned that the SQRTO Squirrelinator Trap without Basin is inexpensive, easy to set up, and great for catching squirrels. It can capture multiple squirrels simultaneously, although smaller or smarter squirrels may not be caught.
Another user noted that the trap is well-built and has a good concept, but it may not work in all locations. The trap’s height is 4″ instead of the advertised 5″, and the paint can be chewed off.
Some users found catching multiple squirrels at once challenging, and proper bait placement is crucial. However, it remains a valuable product for trapping squirrels, being lightweight and low-maintenance.
Another user cautioned about its relatively high cost, thin metal prone to chewing, and the need for caution during squirrel release, as they can escape from the top. The trap is not effective against flying squirrels.
Overall, it is considered a great product for trapping squirrels.
Instructions to Use
- Choose a suitable location with high squirrel activity.
- The trap comes pre-assembled and ready to use.
- Optional: Use bait like nuts or seeds to attract squirrels.
- Ensure both doors are open for squirrels to enter.
- Optional: Place the basin underneath to drown trapped squirrels.
- Regularly check the trap every few hours.
- Decide whether to release or dispose of captured squirrels.
- Clean the trap after each use.
- Prioritize safety and follow local regulations for handling trapped animals.
Get the Rugged Ranch Squirrelinator on Amazon or Lowe's or Walmart or animaltrapsandsupplies.com or oleyvalleyfeed.com or overstock.com or kroger.com or fredmeyer.com
5. Tube Squirrel Traps
Pros
- Natural attractant to squirrels wanting to run through it or hide in it
- Features a safety hook which makes it easy to set up the trap without hurting during the process
- Humane way of dealing with squirrels
Cons
- Can rust quickly
- Difficult to set up
The Tube Trap is a 15-inch long squirrel-capturing trap powered by a strong double torsion spring. It is designed with precision-cut edges and parts, ensuring there are no sharp edges.
This trap can be used either baited or unbaited, as squirrels are naturally attracted to running through or hiding in it. The double torsion spring is triggered when a squirrel reaches the pan in the middle of the trap.
Once a rodent is captured, it is generally hidden from view. The trap also features a safety hook that aids in proper setup. Manufacturers advise using the trap with caution and removing the hook once the trap is in the target location.
To position the trap, select an appropriate location by monitoring squirrel travel ways.
If using bait, apply it to the pan inside the trap. Before setting the trap, ensure that the safety is latched over the strike bar while applying the bait.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 17 x 5 x 5 Inches
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Pet safe: Yes
- Manufacturer: Wildlife Control Supplies
- Target Species: Squirrel
- Item Count: 1 Piece
- Item Weight: 2.8 Pounds
Customer Reviews
The Forestry Suppliers Tube Trap Squirrel Trap has gained popularity in stores for its effectiveness in trapping squirrels.
One user stated, “The Forestry Suppliers Tube Trap Squirrel Trap (Standard) is a great way to manage your pest population humanely. It is easy to set and very effective. It is also inconspicuous, avoiding unnecessary questions.
However, setting the trap requires some strength and coordination, and it tends to rust quickly. It is a bit pricey for its features, but overall, it is a great product well worth the money.”
Another user shared, “The Forestry Suppliers Tube Trap Squirrel Trap (Standard) is a fantastic tool for reducing the number of squirrels in your yard. It is strong, sturdy, and easy to use, delivering excellent results. While it can be a bit challenging to set up due to the force it creates, once you get the hang of it, you’ll start catching squirrels in no time.
The only drawback is its tendency to rust quickly, requiring occasional priming and painting. Nonetheless, it is a worthwhile investment that has significantly reduced squirrel-related damage in my yard.”
Instructions to Use
- Position the trap in front of you with the Strike Bar and Coil Springs next to your body.
- The Trigger and Pan Back should be jutting out on the other side of the tube, away from your body.
- Flip the Trigger and the Safety so they are both pointing up toward the ceiling.
- Press down the Strike Bar with the palms of your hand until it touches the Bracket.
- While holding down the Strike Bar, use a finger to flip the Trigger over the Strike Bar, then flip the Pan Back over the Trigger end.
- The Strike Bar applies tension on the trigger and pan back. You can now flip the Safety before the Strike Bar to make transporting the trap easier and safer.
- Never put your fingers inside the trap; use caution while setting it up.
- Pan sensitivity can be adjusted by adjusting the location of the trigger in the Pan Back.
- Push up the Pan Back to make the pan less sensitive.
- Position the very end of the trigger into the back of the pan to make it more sensitive. This also lowers the pan inside the trap.
Get the Tube Squirrel Traps on Amazon or Amazon or Amazon or wildlifecontrolsupplies.com or forestry-suppliers.com
6. Kat Sense Humane Squirrel Trap, Cage Traps
Pros
- The trap is reusable and easy to set up.
- It has a sensitive and precise trigger mechanism.
- Suitable for various small rodents, not just squirrels.
- It is a humane, no-kill trap.
Cons
- Difficulties in releasing the animal once trapped.
The Kat Sense Humane Squirrel Cage Traps provide an easy and effective solution for dealing with unwanted pests in your surroundings. This product represents excellent value for money and is a practical solution for pest control.
This trap is one of the most robust on the market yet remains affordable and efficient at capturing squirrels and other nuisances. Once caught, the pests are safely contained until you are ready to release them in an area away from your home.
Constructed with coated wires, the cage is rust-resistant, ensuring long-term use. It’s easily cleaned and features a trapdoor-style entryway, effectively welcoming and containing your uninvited pest guests.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 16.61 x 6.38 x 5.71 Inches
- Material: Metal
- Pet safe: Yes
- Manufacturer: Kat Sense
- Target Species: Squirrels
- Item Count: 1 Piece
- Item Weight: 2.16 Pounds
Customer Reviews
The Kat Sense Humane Squirrel Trap has emerged as a popular product due to its effective trapping mechanism.
Customers appreciate its ease of use, portability, and humane design. They note its solid construction and adjustable sensitivity setting, although it may not be suitable for larger animals, and some found setting the trap challenging.
Another noteworthy point is the trap’s thick, coated metal structure that is designed to prevent escapes.
However, some users found the trigger plate too heavy and the latch a bit weak.
Despite these minor issues, users generally regard the product as a great solution for trapping small animals.
Instructions to Use
- Identify a high-activity area for the pests and position the trap there.
- Open the rear door of the trap.
- Place bait, such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios, or peanuts, behind the plate.
- Reattach the rear door.
- Using your thumb and pointer finger, open the front door by squeezing the tab together and lifting the door upwards.
- With your other hand, move the door hooks towards the front, adjusting the trigger by moving the hook backward for increased sensitivity.
- Situate the trap where you’ve noticed the most pest activity.
To enhance the attraction, scatter a few more nuts around the cage entrance and lead into it.
Get the Kat Sense Humane Squirrel Trap, Cage Traps on Amazon or 1outlets.com
7. Harris Catch and Release Trap
Pros
- The trap is very effective, reusable, and humane, allowing you to catch and release mice without killing them.
- It has a sanitary, animal-friendly design that’s safe for use around children and pets.
- The trap is transparent, which makes it easy to see when a mouse has been caught.
- The trap has a unique construction with a spring on the outside, preventing mice from destroying the trap inside.
Cons
- Not suitable for outdoor use as it can rust quickly
PF Harris, a reputable brand known for pioneering pest control solutions, manufactures the Harris Catch and Release Trap.
It stands out as an effective tool for trapping smaller rodents like mice, rats, chipmunks, and squirrels.
The trap’s dimensions are 9.25″ long, 4.3″ wide, and 4.5″ high, making it a suitable medium-sized option.
The trap is built from sturdy metal to prevent any escape attempts through chewing or clawing. Its rust-resistant coating enhances durability, especially for outdoor use.
The design incorporates a transparent body, allowing you to spot captured squirrels easily.
The trap is complete with a trigger bar, lockable trap door, fortified springs, and thick steel mesh wiring to secure the door.
With its quality materials, the Harris Humane Mouse Trap offers a non-harmful solution to your rodent issues.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 7 x 6 x 2.5 Inches
- Color: Black
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Pet safe: Yes
- Manufacturer: Harris
- Target Species: Squirrels
- Item Count: 1Piece
- Item Weight: 0.4 lbs
Customer Reviews
The Harris Catch and Release Humane Animal and Rodent Cage Trap is highly rated for its effectiveness in capturing small rodents, including mice, rats, and squirrels.
Users appreciate its ease of setup, sturdy design, and the included extra springs. They recommend using crunchy peanut butter and multigrain chips as bait.
However, some users have reported issues with the door mechanism, which may allow the trapped animals to escape, and the trap’s durability when used outdoors due to potential rusting. Picking up the trap after a catch and keeping track of the springs can also be challenging.
Despite these minor issues, the trap is considered value for money and a humane solution for rodent problems.
Instructions to Use
- Bait: Put bait on the weight-sensitive bait station. Press down the door until it locks. Set a trap near a wall. Make sure the bait is at the trap’s end.
- Catch: The trap door closes when a mouse enters. The trap has air holes but check it often.
- Release: Open the back door to let the mouse go. Do this at least 100 feet from the trap location. The trap can be reused.
Get the Harris Catch and Release Trap on Amazon or Home Depot or Lowe's or piedmontfarmandgarden.com
Types of Snake Traps
There are different types of squirrel traps, each suited to specific situations. Here are some of the most common:
- Live catch traps: These humane traps capture squirrels alive, causing no harm. They are easy to use and mess-free. However, releasing the captured squirrel can be challenging due to certain state laws governing their release into the wild.
- Tube traps: These traps are essentially snap traps housed inside a round metal or plastic tubes. Squirrels are naturally drawn to such structures, making these traps effective. However, they aren’t considered humane as they kill the squirrel upon contact.
- Electronic traps: These traps kill rodents by delivering a powerful electric shock. They are safe and mess-free and make disposing of dead rodents easy. However, they are often not used for squirrels because killing squirrels is illegal in many states.
- Snap traps: These traps kill squirrels instantly upon contact but are generally disliked due to their brutality and the mess they leave behind. It’s important to check local legislation before using these traps, as their use may be restricted.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best squirrel trap is crucial for effective, humane control of these agile creatures. The ideal trap combines user-friendliness, durability, and a design that prioritizes the animal’s safety. It should offer an effective solution to the squirrel problem while aligning with local laws and ethical standards for animal treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best trap for catching squirrels?
The Amagabeli Garden & Home Humane Live Animal Trap is highly recommended due to its humane design and effectiveness.
Are squirrel traps safe for other animals and pets?
Yes, most squirrel traps are designed to be safe and non-lethal, but always check product details to ensure safety for non-target species.
Are squirrel traps easy to set up?
Many models, like the Amagabeli Trap, are easy to set up and use, but some may require a bit of practice.
What bait should I use in a squirrel trap?
Squirrels are attracted to foods like nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables.
Is it legal to trap squirrels in my area?
Laws vary by location, so checking local regulations before trapping squirrels is important.
What should I do with a squirrel after I’ve trapped it?
Most traps are designed for catch-and-release, so you should release the squirrel in a safe and suitable area away from your home.
Do squirrel traps require regular maintenance?
Most traps require minimal maintenance, though cleaning them after each use is good practice to maintain effectiveness.
Are there different types of squirrel traps available?
Yes, there are various types, including live catch, tube, electronic, and snap traps.
Can I use a squirrel trap for other rodents as well?
Many squirrel traps are versatile and can be used for other small to medium-sized rodents, but always check the product’s target species.
How effective are squirrel traps?
Effectiveness can vary based on factors like trap design, bait used, and trap location, but many users find traps like the Amagabeli model quite effective.