So, you’ve got some uninvited guests scurrying around your property, huh? Maybe it’s a family of squirrels that have taken up residence in your attic, or perhaps a few pesky mice that are raiding your pantry. Whatever the case, you want them gone—but not harmed.
That’s where live animal traps come in handy. These traps are designed to capture small animals without injuring them, allowing for a humane relocation. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of baiting a live animal trap effectively. Trust us, it’s easier than you think.
Before we dive in, let’s get one thing straight: live trapping is a responsible and ethical approach to dealing with small critters. It’s backed by wildlife experts and is often recommended as the best course of action for both the wild animals and homeowners.
So, if you’re looking for a way to solve your critter problem without causing harm, you’re in the right place.
Choosing the Right Trap: Size and Design Matter
First things first, you need to pick the right trap for the job. The size and design of the trap are crucial factors that can make or break your trapping success. For smaller common pest animals like mice, voles, and shrews, a simple cage trap will do the trick.
When selecting a trap, make sure it’s designed for the specific animal you’re targeting. The trap should be sturdy, rust-resistant, and easy to set up. Many traps come with a sensitivity setting, allowing you to adjust how easily the trap is triggered.
This is particularly useful for capturing lighter animals like flying squirrels. Remember, the goal is to capture, not harm, so avoid traps with sharp edges or components that could injure the target animal’s body.
The Art of Baiting: What Works and What Doesn’t
The bait—the pièce de résistance of any successful trapping endeavor. Choosing the right bait can significantly increase your chances of capturing the critter you’re after. For example, mice are suckers for peanut butter, while squirrels can’t resist nuts or seeds. But it’s not just about what you use; it’s also about how you use it.
Place the bait strategically within the trap to lure the animal all the way in. For cage traps, put the bait at the far end, past the trigger plate. This ensures that the target animal has to step on the plate to reach the bait, triggering the trap door to close.
Make sure to secure the bait so that it can’t be easily snatched from outside the trap. Some folks like to use a small piece of cloth or a cotton ball to hold the bait in place. This little trick can make a big difference in your trapping success.
Setting the Trap: Location, Location, Location
You’ve got your trap and your bait, but where should you set it up? The location is just as important as the bait you use. Observe where the animal frequents and place the trap there. For indoor pests like mice, set the trap along the walls where they usually scurry.
For outdoor critters like squirrels, place the trap near their known food sources or nesting areas. When setting up the trap, make sure it’s stable and won’t tip over. A wobbly trap can scare off the animal or, worse, injure it.
The Relocation: Doing It Right
Congratulations, you’ve successfully trapped your critter! Now what? The next step is to relocate the animal to a more suitable environment, away from human habitation. Check local laws and regulations about releasing wildlife, as some areas may have restrictions. Choose a location that’s at least 5 miles away from your property to prevent animals from returning.
When releasing the animal, take precautions to ensure both your safety and the critter’s well-being. Wear gloves to avoid direct contact and open the trap door slowly to allow the animal to exit on its own terms. Once the animal has been released, clean and disinfect the trap before using it again.
The Importance of Hiring a Professional
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, trapping and relocating small critters can prove to be a challenging task. Maybe you’ve tried multiple baits and locations, but you’re still not having any luck. Or perhaps you’re dealing with a particularly elusive or smart animal that seems to avoid every trap you set. In such cases, it might be time to call in the professionals.
Hiring a professional wildlife removal service comes with several advantages. First, they bring years of experience and expertise to the table. They know the habits and preferences of most animals, allowing them to set up traps more effectively.
Second, professionals use high-quality, humane traps that are designed for successful capture animals without causing harm. One such trusted brand in the industry is Sherman Traps. Known for their durable and humane design, Sherman Traps are a go-to choice for wildlife professionals.
By opting for a professional service that uses top-notch traps like those from Sherman Traps, you’re ensuring a humane and effective solution to your critter problem. Professionals also take care of the relocation process, ensuring that it’s done in accordance with local wildlife laws and regulations.
So, if you find yourself in a trapping conundrum, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. It’s a decision that benefits both you and the animal in question.
Conclusion: The Humane Way Is the Right Way
Live trapping offers a humane solution to dealing with small critters that have become a nuisance. By following these guidelines, you can effectively capture and relocate animals without causing them harm. So the next time you find yourself sharing your space with some furry freeloaders, remember: a little bit of knowledge and the right tools can go a long way in resolving the issue responsibly.
FAQs on Baiting Live Traps
What do you use to bait a live trap for squirrels?
Squirrels are primarily attracted to nuts and seeds, which are a staple in their diet. Some of the most effective baits for squirrels include:
- Peanut butter: A classic choice that’s both aromatic and tasty for them.
- Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, and almonds are particularly enticing.
- Seeds: Sunflower seeds are a favorite.
- Fresh fruit: Slices of apple or orange can also be used as bait. Remember to place the bait at the far end of the trap to ensure the squirrel fully enters the trap.
How do you use live animal traps?
Using live traps involves several steps:
- Choose the Right Trap: Ensure the trap is appropriate for the size and species of the pest animal you’re targeting.
- Select the Bait: Different animals have different preferences. Use a very good bait that’s most effective for the specific critter you’re trying to catch.
- Set the Trap: Place the trap in an area where the animal frequents. Ensure it’s stable and won’t tip over.
- Monitor the Trap: Check the trap regularly, at least twce a day, to see if you’ve caught anything.
- Relocate the Animal: Once you’ve captured the animal, relocate it to a suitable environment, following local wildlife regulations.
- Clean the Trap: After each use, clean and disinfect the trap before setting it up again.