Most squirrels build their nests on trees or tree holes, while some dig underground to store food and hibernate. These species are very territorial, especially the mother squirrels.
They usually feed on fruits, nuts, insects, and other smaller animals. Just like with other rodents, their two front teeth will continuously grow, which can be maintained through gnawing and munching on things.
That’s where they begin to become annoying pests. They can destroy plants and trees, or worse, and they can sneak into your house and find something to munch on like your furniture.
So, I am sharing the best squirrel traps that can be used both indoors and outdoors to protect your home and garden from a squirrel invasion and infestation.
By the way, if you don’t want to read the entire article and just need a quick tip, then, in my opinion, Victor M241 (affiliate) is the best in its class.
What Makes the Best Squirrel Trap (Buyers Guide)
Before we go into details, let’s define first what a squirrel trap is. Squirrel traps come in different varieties: lethal, non-lethal, single animal, and multi-animal types.
The non-lethal traps are usually a rectangular box trap that catches live squirrels. They come in two varieties: wire cage traps and Sherman traps.
The main difference between the two is their construction, whereas the Sherman traps have solid sides from top to bottom, while the wire traps are made from heavy gauge wire.
It is usual for trapped animals to be enraged and attack anyone carrying the cage they are in; however, you will be more protected against these attacks with the Sherman trap.
There are also the so-called multiple-catch traps that capture more than one squirrel and the single-catch traps that catch one squirrel at a time.
Things to Consider When Buying Squirrel Traps
Size of squirrel trap
To catch a good-sized squirrel, you need to look for a spacious-sized trap. Assume that it must fit the giant squirrel. If the trap is too small, the trap door might not close properly, creating an escape route for the animals.
On the other hand, if the trap is too big, the squirrel might run around the trap and can hurt itself while inside the cage.
The ideal squirrel trap should be at least 15 to 20 inches long with an opening around 5 x 5 inches.
Materials
Like with any other rodents, squirrels have sharp teeth that can chew through walls; therefore, you need to look for a steel cage trap that will not rust or corrode.
The best squirrel traps are built using sturdy materials so that they can be used for many years.
Single or two-door cage traps
Usually, traps are placed against the wall above the attic opening; therefore, a single door cage is enough. Put the bait inside the cage and set the trigger to close the door once the squirrel entered.
Legalities of trapping
In some states, trapping squirrels and relocating them somewhere else is illegal. So, make sure to check the guidelines first of your state’s department of wildlife.
If it’s allowed, once you catch a squirrel, clean up the squirrel droppings, then release it 10 miles away from your home. Make sure to remove the squirrel in a suitable habitat.
It is recommended to release the squirrel as soon as possible to avoid hurting itself or damage your cage.
Types of Squirrel Traps
Squirrel traps come in three basic designs: flat snap traps, tube traps, or box traps.
Snap traps are commonly used for catching mice and rats, and also works well with squirrels. Just apply a thin layer of bait to the trigger and set it up where squirrels roam around.
You can place the trap in areas where they have been gnawing, like in your patio, wiring, decking, and other properties. Snap traps are used to kill them instantly.
Tube traps look like snap traps that are built inside round metal or plastic tubings. Squirrels are curious when they find something peculiar and will poke around inside anything they find.
To get this work, a little bait can be added to lure them in the trap faster. Either way, once they go inside the trap, they will trigger the trap and be killed right away.
Electric traps use electricity to stimulate squirrels that will crawl inside the trap. These traps can also work off cords from an electrical outlet and use 4D-cell batteries instead.
Besides, squirrel traps can also be classified into two:
Live Squirrel Cage Traps
These are the typical traps where you can buy online and set them up yourself. These cage traps are considered humane, wherein you catch them live and release the squirrels after that.
Bait is used to lure the squirrel to go inside the cage. Once the animal stepped on the trigger, the cage door would be closed. Make sure to release them 10 miles away from your home so that they won’t find their way back.
One-Way Exclusion Door Traps
These traps allow the squirrel to have a one-way exit and not return where they came in.
One-way exclusion door traps can be installed outside the hole if you know there are squirrels inside. This squirrel trap is your best option if you want to catch multiple squirrels in one shot.
What to Look For in an Electronic Squirrel Trap
Rodent traps vary in terms of their purpose and design. Some traps are ideal for killing large rodents, while others are designed for small rodents. Regardless of the rodent trap, you are looking for, here are some tips to help you buy the right product:
Durability
The right rodent trap should be made from sturdy materials that can withstand any weather and be used for the long-term. This way, you got the product that will give you a life-long service.
Simple
It would be best if you bought a trap that is simple to use. Setting up should be effortless, as well as applying bait. It would be best if the product has a hand-free design.
Safe
Generally, all electronic rodent traps are safe since they do not use toxic chemicals or poison. The right trap should be pet-friendly so that it will not inflict harm or pain on pets, especially to children.
Versatile
When buying a rodent trap, check for the versatility. It is because it helps in saving money if it can cater to both large and small rodents. Besides, it is best if it can be used both for indoor and outdoor settings.
Humane
Though electronic rodent traps instantly kill the target, it is still humane since you kill them by delivering high volts of electricity and not killing them in a slow and painful process. The best rodent trap should kill the rodent as fast as possible without prolonging their pain.
Where is the best place to put squirrel traps?
Squirrels usually live around bush and trees. They run up and down, hop from tree to tree through branches, and they can run along with electrical wirings.
If you have trees with bushes or shrubs around the base, they are the number one spot for squirrel traps. They will encounter the trap daily, even on an hourly basis, since they scamper back and forth their nest.
They will first feel curious and scared, but once they have overcome the fear, their natural curiosity will take over, and they will start going inside the cage.
Another location to place the squirrel trap is at the base of the phone poles and utility poles since squirrels are also natural climbers where they can climb higher positions such as this place.
You can put them on the ground near the poles, or you can attach them to the poles itself. You can also attach traps directly to the trunk of the trees.
Lastly, you can place these traps across your house or business roof since squirrels are notorious species for running to these areas.
It might be helpful to have easy access to your roof for checking, emptying, and replacing the baits in the trap. Place the trap near the tree branches and utility lines to gain access to the ceiling.
How to Bait Squirrels?
Place the bait approximately six inches from the ground so that the scent will lure the squirrel.
Baiting is most effective when using live cage traps; they should be pre-baited and left open for a couple of days to gain the squirrel’s trust. Once they get used to it, you can now set the trap and tie the trigger’s bait.
Keep in mind that squirrels are experts when it comes to stealing baits.
Here Are The Best Electronic Squirrel Traps
Choosing the right kind of squirrel trap will help you in getting rid of these pests easier. A home free from rodents allows you to save money from hiring professional pest control and even property restoration.
Here are a guide and an honest review of the best squirrel traps in the market today.
Suminey Electronic Rodent Zapper
Dimension: 11 x 4.7 x 5.5 inches
This electronic rodent trap is best if you are looking for a trap that gives deadly shock in one shot.
Well, this trap delivers a total of 7,000 volts that will last for two minutes to ensure that the animals will be killed immediately, making it humane instead of prolonging the target’s agony.
The trap is easy to assemble, just fit the two pieces to snap together. Then, place delicious bait like peanut butter, chocolate sauce, and nuts to allure the animal to go inside the electronic trap.
To make it work, just plug in the device with the adapter, or you may use it portable by inserting batteries and place it alongside the wall.
Once the trap catches the target, there will be a green light flash and a “bibi” sound to know if the animal is caught successfully.
However, make sure that the electronic trap is assembled correctly; otherwise, it won’t have any electricity to produce a shock.
Besides, this electronic trap is easy to clean; just shake the dead animal into the trash bag. Then clean and disinfect the trap so that it can be used again.
Make sure when handling dead rodents, you are wearing gloves to avoid having contact with it.
This rodent trap from Suminey does not use toxic chemicals or poison when killing rodents. It is also mess-free, meaning no blood or stain is left on the trap.
Keep the electronic trap away from rain and during periods of nonuse, unplug or remove the batteries and store them in a clean, dry place. Set up the trap out of reach of pets and children.
Pros:
- It is easy to set up and clean
- It has a green light indicator and alarming sound to signal successful killing
- It does not use chemicals, poison and is mess-free
- It is a humane way to kill rodents
- It can either use a battery or plug-in to an electric source
Cons:
- It is not water-proof
- Messy cleanup
PestNoMore Rodent Zapper Electronic Trap
Dimension: 280 x 120 x 130 inches
This electronic rodent trap humanely gets rid of rats, mice, and other rodents like squirrels, chipmunks, etc. using triple shock technology.
It either uses batteries or a plug-in outlet to work. As you can notice, its size is spacious enough to cater to all rodents’ sizes so that they won’t be uncomfortable entering the trap.
It also features multiple safety protection so that you won’t touch the dead rodent since it has separate parts for easy cleaning of the shock chamber.
Just like with the other rodent electronic traps listed, it has a notification light and alarm signal to know when the target is killed and ready for disposal.
It follows three simple steps: place a small bait like peanut butter at the trap’s back. Position the trap on areas where the squirrel is most likely to encounter it.
Once the rodent is allured to enter the trap, it will trigger a high voltage electric shock that will instantly kill the target, making it a humane way of killing.
Lastly, turn off the power button, and then simply empty the dead rodent’s body into the trash.
Luckily, this electronic trap is powered by either 4 D-size batteries or plug-in the primary adapter for the unlimited kill.
However, if you use the main adapter, you cannot use it outdoors; it needs to be placed near the power source for continuous use.
Make sure to set up the inaccessible trap areas for pets and children to avoid harm or injury. Disinfect the trap after every use to avoid the spread of germs.
Pros:
- It has multiple safety protection features
- It comes with triple shock technology
- It is spacious enough to cater to any rodent size
- It can be battery operated or plug-in adapter
Cons:
- It is not ideal for outdoor use
- Batteries are not included
Victor Electronic Rodent Trap
Dimension: 8.5 x 3.5 x 4.5 inches
The Victor Electronic Trap has been known for its innovative rodent control technology patented with a 3-plate design to prevent captured animals from escaping.
It uses a high-voltage shock, wherein its smart circuit technology senses the rodent. It will instantly release 7,000 volts of electricity that will last for two minutes to ensure a permanent kill. It can kill up to 30 rodents per set of 4 * C batteries.
This electronic trap is suitable for indoor use only like in the garage, basement, or anywhere that is not exposed to outdoor elements.
It does not use any toxic chemicals or poison to kill the animals, making it economical; however, it should be used with caution around pets and children with any electronic device.
With each kill, the indicator light on top of the trap will blink green, and when the batteries run low or need replacement, the indicator light will turn red.
Besides, the Victor Electronic Rodent Trap offers hygienic, no-touch, and mess-free disposal of the dead rodent’s body; simply tip the dead body directly into the trash.
This trap is very easy to use, just insert the four C batteries into the compartment and then turn it on. Then use a Q-tip or toothpick to spread bait like peanut butter or dry pet food into the trap entrance.
Place the trap on areas where there are signs of rodent’s activity. To assure that the trap is working, a green light indicator will blink, and a short buzzing sound will be heard.
Pros:
- It is equipped with an advanced smart circuit technology senses that deliver 7,000 volts of electricity
- It has a patented design to prevent captured animals from escaping
- It does not use toxic chemicals or poison
- It is easy to set up and effective in killing rodents
Cons:
- Batteries are not included
- It is more expensive than other electronic traps listed
- It is battery-operated only
- Ideal use for indoors only
Rat Zapper Classic Indoor Electronic Trap
Dimension: 12 x 4.33 x 4.5 inches
This is a brand-name trap that is produced by a well-established company founded in 2009.
The Rat Zapper Electronic Rat Trap effectively kills rats and other types of rodents such as squirrels, chipmunks, mice, and others. The device works automatically, wherein the indicator light blinks after each kill.
Dead rodents will not be seen, nor will you have to touch them since it features hands-free, no-touch, and no view disposal, reducing the common rodent traps’ yuck factor.
This humane trap kills rodents using a high-voltage shock to kill the target. Since most rodents such as rats can restart their hearts, the strong and deadly shock lasts for two minutes to ensure higher kill rates.
With this rodent trap, cleanup is easy and convenient. After a kill, just dump the dead rodent into the trash without having to touch it. The indicator light will signal you when is the right time to empty the trap.
It is designed mainly for indoor use or anywhere that it won’t be exposed to outdoor elements since this electronic trap is battery operated and uses 4 * AA batteries.
It is perfect to place attics, garages, basements, sheds, shady parts of the roof, and other areas where squirrels will most likely encounter it.
The trap is economical and does not use harmful chemicals and poisons; however, it must be used with caution around pets and children with any electronic device.
This electronic trap can accommodate one rodent per setting and kill up to 20 animals until the batteries last.
Pros:
- It is equipped with an indicator light to signal when to empty the trap
- It is a humane trap that uses high-voltage shock to kill rodents instantly
- Hygienic, no-touch, no-see disposal of handling dead rodents
- It is easy to use
Cons:
- Batteries are not included in the packaging
- Mostly for indoor use only
- Battery-operated
Best Non-Electronic Squirrel Traps
Aside from electronic squirrel traps that can instantly kill the animals in just a split second, there’s another method that can be used to capture squirrels without using high-voltage electricity.
Rugged Ranch Squirrelinator
Dimension: 23.25 x 23.25 x 4 inches
This two-door squirrel trap works effectively in areas with large squirrel populations, where they are used to share resources and food supplies.
Just throw any food bait in your trap, usually the food they used to eat in your yard, and they will gladly come after it. With this trap, you can catch multiple squirrels in a single-use.
The trap is made from galvanized steel so that squirrels cannot easily damage the cage and find their way to escape. As you can see, this trap is a live trap, and you can purchase it with or without the basin.
The basin is the plastic container that you lower the cage into once the squirrels are trapped in the cage. To make this work, fill the basin with water, put the cage down in the water, and the trapped squirrels.
After that, you need to empty the squirrel into the trash, replenish the bait, and then set it back again.
All live-catch traps work best if you leave them open for several days before you set them. Bait the trap and let the squirrel get used to coming in and out of the cage.
Then once you have gained their trust, that’s where you will set up the trap and start catching them. You can also modify the trap by cutting a small exit hole on one side.
You can insert a PVC pipe to suspend the bottom of the pipe over a bucket or trashcan full of water for them to slide.
Pros:
- It is made of solid construction
- It can hold multiple squirrels
- It is designed with smooth edges and a good coat of paint
- It has a two-door design for easy capture
Cons:
- Trapped animals may bite each other inside the cage
Kensizer Animal Humane Live Cage Trap
Dimension: 12 x 6.5 x 5 inches
Though squirrels are tiny and cute, they are a nuisance in your yard most of the time. What’s worst are they feed on your plants and furniture that keep your garden lively. Therefore, the best way to get rid of them in your backyard is by trapping them.
This live animal trap ensures that the animals caught are not harmed or killed if you want a humane way of catching squirrels. The trap secures them in a place until it’s the right time for you to release them.
The trap is made from a lightweight aluminum structure that is sturdy and durable so that those animal’s teeth won’t easily bite the finest wire mesh.
The trap is also equipped with a highly sensitive trigger mechanism wherein the door will be automatically locked and keep the critters inside once the trigger is touched. This exclusive patented design makes it effective at keeping the animals in the trap.
Though it may seem bulky, the trap is lightweight, making it a lot easier for you to transport and release the trapped squirrels.
Kensizer has been recognized for years in the trapping industry, offering premium customer service. They will send a replacement once you proved that it is damaged within six months.
Pros:
- The design of the cage is exclusively patented
- It is made from a lightweight aluminum structure for easy transport and release
- It comes with a sensitive trigger mechanism that automatically locks when it close
- Made from sturdy wire mesh
Cons:
- It does not include a protective plate between you and the animal
- It is not equipped with a carrying handle
OxGord Live Animal Catch and Release Trap
Dimension: 12 x 12 x 32 inches
This large trap is constructed using high-quality materials, rust-resistant wire mesh, and heavy-duty steel for long-term use. If you can notice, the trap door is spring-loaded to ensure that animals won’t escape.
It is also designed with a strong metal handle along with a handle guard to keep you from being bitten accidentally or scratched by the trapped animals. It can capture small to large-sized rodents like cottontail rabbits.
The trap will be delivered preassembled; it will come in a flat and collapsed state. No worries, since the assembly is easy, just pull it open, and it will be ready to trap the target animal in no time.
The trap is the standard design for live-catch traps and is used by most pest control professionals. Its structure assures that it will last for years to use.
Pros:
- The trap door is spring-loaded
- It is collapsible and can save space when not in use
- It comes with a handle guard to protect you from the animals inside
- The trigger plate is sensitive
Cons:
- It requires two hands to set up the trap
Conclusion
I listed the best squirrel Electronic And Non-Electronic Squirrel Traps, and, in my opinion two of them stand out:
Victor M241 – best electronic trap
Kensizer Animal Humane Live Cage Trap – best humane trap
Tips when catching squirrels
- Know the laws in your area before setting up the trap and relocating a squirrel
- The best time of the year to trap a squirrel is either during the early winter or late spring. During these times, you have the best chance to prevent squirrels from reproducing, and you are less likely to separate the mother from her offsprings.
- When trapping a squirrel outdoors, anchor the trap or place a heavy object on top of the trap to prevent other animals from carrying it and stealing it.
- Before you attempt to catch a squirrel inside your house, confine the squirrel to one room by closing all the possible exit points, such as the small holes and cracks, leading to other parts of the house.
- Disinfect the trap after each use using a bleach solution. Mix one part of bleach with nine parts of water. Mix the solution thoroughly and apply the solution to the used trap. Leave it for at least 20 minutes before wiping and washing the trap.
- The best way to get rid of squirrels is by using an integrated control plan, including repellents and electronic traps. You may refer to the products listed above to have an idea of the best electronic squirrel traps.
Conclusion
There are many squirrel traps you can buy. Whether it is for indoor or outdoor use, may be mechanical or electronic, there is one that will fit your needs.
At the same time, most electronic traps are either battery operated or plug-in to an electric outlet and can be both suitable for indoor use only.
But if you want a trap that can be used outdoors, let’s say it can be placed on bush or shrubs, where squirrels are most likely to encounter it; therefore, you need to go for the mechanical squirrel trap.
Besides, just because you put out a trap for squirrels, it does not mean that is the only animal you can catch. Other rodents might get caught in it, like mice, rats, chipmunks, and rabbits.