Understanding the Need for Squirrel Relocation
Relocating a squirrel family is an act of compassion and environmental stewardship.
You might be experiencing a situation where squirrels have nested in an undesirable location like your attic or garden.
Squirrels, while cute and entertaining, can create a significant mess and potentially damage property.
They may also pose health risks due to the parasites they can carry.
Identifying the Type of Squirrels
Before attempting any relocation, it’s essential to identify the type of squirrels you are dealing with.
Different squirrel species have varying behaviors and habitat preferences.
This will guide you in providing the best new home for them.
For instance, the Columbian Ground Squirrel thrives in grassy meadows and forest clearings.
On the other hand, an Green Bush Squirrel prefers dense rainforest regions.
When to Relocate Squirrels
The timing of the relocation is critical.
Avoid moving squirrel families during the breeding season, which typically happens in late winter and midsummer.
Squirrel mothers need time to nurture their young, and relocating them during this time can stress the entire family.
Moreover, baby squirrels are vulnerable and may not survive without their mother’s care.
Preparing for Relocation
Begin by preparing a new, suitable location for the squirrel family.
This area should mimic their natural habitat as closely as possible to minimize stress.
Ensure the new site is far enough from your home to prevent the squirrels from returning.
A distance of at least 5-10 miles is recommended.
Gathering Necessary Supplies
You’ll need a few essential items to relocate the squirrels safely.
A humane trap is crucial for capturing the squirrels without causing harm.
The Wyoming Ground Squirrel is easier to trap due to their ground-based habitat compared to tree-dwelling squirrels.
You will also need sturdy gloves to protect yourself, as squirrels might bite if they feel threatened.
Using a Humane Trap
Choose a humane trap that is appropriately sized for squirrels.
One highly recommended trap is the Havahart 1084 Easy Set One-Door Cage Trap.
People say this trap is easy to set and safe for both you and the animal.
Features people like
- One-handed setup.
- Sturdy and durable construction.
- Compact size makes it easy to transport.
Drawbacks
- Some users reported the trigger mechanism as too sensitive.
- A few cases of escape due to faulty latches.
Placing the trap in an area where squirrels frequent, such as near their entry point into your home, increases the chance of capture.
Handling Captured Squirrels
Once captured, it’s important to handle the trap with care.
Squirrels can become very anxious and might injure themselves or you if not handled properly.
Provide a cloth or blanket over the trap to keep the squirrels calm during transport.
Transporting the Squirrels
Use a vehicle that can accommodate the trap securely.
Avoid placing the trap directly in the vehicle’s path for safety.
Ensure the new location is prepared before releasing the squirrels to minimize the time they spend in the trap.
Releasing the Squirrels
Release the squirrels early in the day to give them ample time to explore and find shelter before nightfall.
Open the trap carefully and step back to allow the squirrels to exit at their own pace.
Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle the animals.
Following Up After Relocation
Monitor the new location for a few days to ensure the squirrels have adapted well.
Providing some food like nuts or seeds initially can help them settle in.
Gradually reduce the food supply to encourage them to forage naturally.
Preventing Future Squirrel Intrusions
To prevent squirrels from making their way back, seal any entry points they used to access your home.
Use materials like steel wool and caulk to block holes and gaps in your attic or walls.
Installing squirrel-proof bird feeders can also help reduce the attraction to your property.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Relocating squirrels is a delicate process, and common mistakes can have serious consequences.
Avoid separating the squirrel family, as this can cause significant stress and harm, especially to the young ones.
Another mistake is relocating them too close to their original habitat, resulting in the squirrels finding their way back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a squirrel has babies?
Look for signs such as a nest with young squirrels or a mother squirrel frequently returning to the nest.
Is it legal to relocate squirrels?
Relocation laws vary by state and region. Check local wildlife regulations before proceeding.
What should I do if a squirrel appears injured?
Contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance with injured animals.
Will relocated squirrels survive?
If relocated properly and to a suitable habitat, squirrels have a good chance of survival.
How can I make my property less attractive to squirrels?
Remove food sources, seal entry points, and use deterrents like motion-activated lights or sprinklers.
Can I use poison to deal with a squirrel problem?
No, using poison is inhumane and can harm other animals and pets. Always opt for humane methods.
How long do squirrels stay with their mothers?
Most squirrel species remain with their mothers for about 10-12 weeks before becoming independent.
Are all squirrel species the same?
No, different species have unique behaviors, habitats, and diets. Identifying the species can help in relocation.
What if the squirrels come back after relocation?
Ensure all potential entry points are sealed, and consider using wildlife deterrents to keep them away.
How can I identify the entry points squirrels use?
Look for signs like chewed holes, squirrel droppings, and tracks near potential entry points.
Learning from Experts
Relocating a squirrel family is a complex task, and learning from experts can provide valuable insights.
Consulting with local wildlife experts or rehabilitation centers can offer personalized advice and support.
They may also provide resources for humane traps and tips on creating an ideal new habitat for the squirrels.
Creating a Safe Release Environment
When preparing a release area for the relocated squirrels, ensure it provides ample food, water, and shelter options.
This will help the squirrels adjust more quickly and reduce the stress of relocation.
A suitable release site could be a large park, wooded area, or natural reserve with plenty of trees and foliage.
Using Release Techniques
Early morning is the best time to release squirrels.
This timing ensures they have daylight to find shelter and orient themselves in their new surroundings.
Avoid releasing them during extreme weather conditions to improve their chances of survival.
Establishing Food Sources
Initially, provide a small amount of food at the release site to help them adjust.
Nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits are ideal options.
Gradually tapering off the food provided will encourage the squirrels to forage naturally in their new environment.
Creating a Refuge
Consider setting up a simple shelter or nest box at the release site.
This gives the squirrels immediate protection and a secure spot to rest while they acclimate.
You can purchase or build a nest box designed for squirrels; these are typically made from untreated wood and mounted on a tree.
Monitoring After Release
It’s crucial to monitor the release site periodically to ensure the squirrels are thriving.
This includes checking that they’re finding food, shelter, and adapting to their surroundings.
Providing care during the first few days can increase their chances of survival.
Understanding the Behavior of Different Squirrel Species
Each squirrel species may require specific considerations for relocation.
For example, the American Red Squirrel is highly territorial and might need a larger area to avoid conflict with other squirrels.
Being aware of these differences can help tailor your relocation strategy to the needs of the particular species.
Relocating Urban Versus Rural Squirrels
Urban squirrels are often more accustomed to human activity and may adapt quicker to new environments where humans are present.
Rural squirrels, conversely, are more accustomed to natural settings.
Choose a release site that best matches their previous living conditions to ease their transition.
Legal Considerations for Squirrel Relocation
Before you relocate squirrels, it’s essential to understand the legal aspects.
Regulations vary widely depending on your location.
In some areas, you may need a permit; in others, relocation may be restricted altogether.
To avoid legal issues, consult local wildlife authorities for guidance.
Keeping Squirrels Out Post-Relocation
After successfully relocating the squirrels, taking preventive measures ensures they don’t return or another family doesn’t take their place.
Regularly inspect your property and maintain any repairs made.
Using natural deterrents like predator scents can also discourage squirrels from re-entering your property.
Simple landscaping adjustments like trimming tree branches away from your roof can prevent easy access.
Humane Alternatives to Relocation
In some cases, relocation might not be the best option.
If the issue is more about keeping squirrels out of specific areas, consider humane deterrents.
One effective method is using squirrel-proof bird feeders, which can help keep them from raiding your birdseed supply.
Another approach could be using ultrasonic repellent devices that emit sounds to keep squirrels and other pests at bay without harming them.
The Role of Professional Wildlife Control
In circumstances where squirrel relocation becomes too complex or overwhelming, professional wildlife control services might be necessary.
These experts have the experience and equipment to handle the situation humanely and effectively.
They can also provide follow-up services to ensure that relocated squirrels adapt well to their new habitat.
Resources for Squirrel Information
Expanding your knowledge about squirrels through reputable sources can aid in making informed decisions regarding their relocation.
Websites discussing various squirrel species offer valuable insights.
For instance, understanding the habits of the Fox Squirrel can guide you in selecting an optimal relocation site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a squirrel has babies?
Look for signs such as a nest with young squirrels or a mother squirrel frequently returning to the nest.
Is it legal to relocate squirrels?
Relocation laws vary by state and region. Check local wildlife regulations before proceeding.
What should I do if a squirrel appears injured?
Contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance with injured animals.
Will relocated squirrels survive?
If relocated properly and to a suitable habitat, squirrels have a good chance of survival.
How can I make my property less attractive to squirrels?
Remove food sources, seal entry points, and use deterrents like motion-activated lights or sprinklers.
Can I use poison to deal with a squirrel problem?
No, using poison is inhumane and can harm other animals and pets. Always opt for humane methods.
How long do squirrels stay with their mothers?
Most squirrel species remain with their mothers for about 10-12 weeks before becoming independent.
Are all squirrel species the same?
No, different species have unique behaviors, habitats, and diets. Identifying the species can help in relocation.
What if the squirrels come back after relocation?
Ensure all potential entry points are sealed, and consider using wildlife deterrents to keep them away.
How can I identify the entry points squirrels use?
Look for signs like chewed holes, squirrel droppings, and tracks near potential entry points.
Acknowledging the Complexity of Squirrel Relocation
Relocating a squirrel family is a multifaceted process that demands careful consideration and empathy.
It’s not just a matter of moving the animals but ensuring they can thrive in their new environment.
This means understanding their specific needs and behaviors and adapting your relocation efforts accordingly.
Our goal should always be to minimize stress and maximize the chances of a successful transition.
Remember, the well-being of the squirrels is paramount.
Approach the task with patience and compassion.
Together, we can contribute to a harmonious coexistence with these fascinating creatures.
