How to Trap a Squirrel in Your House

If you have squirrels in your home, they can wreak real havoc. Not only will they nest and possibly have litters of babies indoors, they might tear apart walls and insulation and gnaw on your electrical wiring. Short of creating a dangerous fire hazard, the sounds coming from your attic or crawlspace can be unnerving, especially in the middle of the night. Trapping a squirrel might seem like a challenge, but with the right trap and a little bit of detective work, it's relatively easy.

Things You'll Need

  • Live squirrel trap
  • Peanut butter
  • Dry oats
  • Work gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Walk around your house and look for possible points of entry. The squirrel is likely getting back and forth to its nest in your house through that opening, and you'll want to catch it on its way in or out.

    • 2

      If you can pinpoint a possible entry area, set up the squirrel trap in that location. Otherwise, just set up the trap somewhere on the perimeter of the house. Follow the directions on the trap to set it up, as they will vary.

    • 3

      Mix two tablespoons of peanut butter with one tablespoon of raw, dry oats and spread the mixture onto a cracker. Place the bait inside the trap.

    • 4

      Listen for sounds that the trap has gone off. A trapped squirrel will make a lot of noise, and to keep the squirrel from becoming too stressed out, it is important that you remove the trap as soon as possible.

    • 5

      Put on sturdy work gloves before removing the trap. Squirrels have sharp claws and teeth, and when in distress, they will try to defend themselves.

    • 6

      Release the squirrel into the wild by releasing the trap door and stepping back quickly. Releasing the squirrel away from your home will not prevent the squirrel from returning, but it will give you time to patch up the entrance.