Best bait for trapping nuisance squirrels

What is the Best Bait for Trapping Nuisance Squirrels?

Dealing with nuisance squirrels can be quite a challenge for homeowners. These agile and persistent critters can wreak havoc on gardens, attics, and bird feeders, causing frustration and damage. Whether you’re an experienced wildlife control professional or a homeowner looking for effective solutions, finding the best bait for trapping nuisance squirrels is crucial. In this article, we will explore different bait options that have proven to be successful in squirrel trapping.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior

Before delving into the best baits, it’s important to understand the behavior of squirrels. These furry creatures are opportunistic omnivores, meaning they eat a wide variety of foods. While their diet primarily consists of nuts, seeds, and fruits, they are known to scavenge for insects, bird eggs, and even small birds. Squirrels have a keen sense of smell, and their natural curiosity often leads them to explore new food sources.

The Top Bait Choices

1. Peanut Butter: Peanut butter is a highly effective bait option for trapping squirrels. Its strong smell and irresistible taste make it hard for squirrels to resist. Smear a generous amount of peanut butter on the trigger plate of the trap or use it to stick seeds or nuts to the trigger. Make sure to use creamy peanut butter, as chunky varieties may allow squirrels to easily remove the bait without triggering the trap.

2. Seeds and Nuts: Squirrels have a natural affinity for seeds and nuts, making them excellent bait choices. Black oil sunflower seeds, walnuts, pecans, and almonds are all great options. Place a handful of these treats inside the trap, ensuring that some are positioned on the trigger plate. You can also attach them to the trigger using a small amount of peanut butter or even dental floss.

3. Corn: Corn is another effective bait for trapping squirrels. The sweet smell and taste of corn make it an attractive option. Place a few ears of corn inside the trap, and ensure that some kernels are positioned on the trigger plate. Squirrels will be enticed to enter the trap in search of this tasty treat.

4. Marshmallows: Surprisingly, marshmallows can be a successful bait option for trapping squirrels. Their sweet scent and soft texture make them an enticing treat. Place a few marshmallows inside the trap, ensuring that some are positioned on the trigger plate. Squirrels will find it hard to resist the allure of these sugary morsels.

Tips for Successful Trapping

1. Placement: To maximize your chances of trapping squirrels, it’s important to place the trap in the right location. Look for signs of squirrel activity such as chewed wires, gnawed bark, or droppings. Set the trap near these areas, ensuring that it is stable and cannot be easily tampered with by other animals.

2. Timing: Squirrels are most active during early morning and late afternoon. Therefore, it’s best to set the trap during these times to increase your chances of successful trapping.

3. Multiple Traps: If you’re dealing with a significant squirrel population, consider setting multiple traps in different locations. This will increase your chances of catching these agile creatures and reduce the time it takes to solve the issue.

4. Regular Monitoring: Check the traps regularly to ensure caught squirrels are quickly and humanely dealt with. Promptly release them in a suitable location far away from your property.

Why Hire a Professional for Wildlife Control?

While trapping squirrels can be done by homeowners, it’s often best to hire a professional wildlife control service. These experts have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to effectively solve your squirrel problem. They can identify entry points, implement exclusion measures, and provide long-term solutions to prevent future infestations. Additionally, professionals ensure that trapping and relocation are done in compliance with local regulations, promoting the ethical and humane treatment of wildlife.

In conclusion, choosing the best bait for trapping nuisance squirrels requires an understanding of their behavior and preferences. Peanut butter, seeds and nuts, corn, and marshmallows have all proven to be successful bait options. Remember to place traps strategically, monitor them regularly, and consider hiring a professional for efficient and ethical wildlife control. With the right approach, you can solve your squirrel problem and restore peace to your home or garden.