How to Trap Flying Squirrels
Flying squirrels can be just as aggravating as regular squirrels, and in some ways might be difficult to remove. Consisting of about 50 different species in total, flying squirrels appear larger than other squirrels thanks to their long tails and skin folds. Despite those, they tend to be pretty small, usually around ten inches. They also tend to be very territorial and spend the vast majority of their lives amongst the trees.
However, flying squirrels can still steal food from bird feeders, annoy dogs, and even make a home in your attic if they can find a way inside. The potential damage once inside your home can be the same as any other pest; spread disease, eat insulation, chew through cables, and the like. Rather than deal with repellents of dubious use, some people prefer to trap the squirrels and make sure they’re dealt with for good.
Outdoor Traps
Outdoor live traps are pretty common for outside critters who get into your yard. This is true for flying squirrels as well.
Placing the traps near bird feeders or on trees will help prevent the rodents from causing trouble. Just make sure you relocate the squirrels away from your property. Otherwise, there’s a good chance the rodents will come back.
Calling Experts
If the flying squirrels have already gotten into your home, then it might be a good idea to contact your local wildlife removal service. They can safely catch and relocate the flying squirrels. This is especially helpful if the rodents built a nest and have started raising a family. Dealing with a protective mother and her young is definitely best left to the experts.
Funnel Trafficking
Funnels are a good way to divert squirrels away from feeders or your attic. These are useful for guiding them away from where you don’t want them. Just make sure they can’t get back through the funnel. Flying squirrels are pretty mobile, so it might be tricky for these to work, but it’s worth a try and might keep the little rodents from bothering the bird feeders.
Live Traps
As mentioned with the outdoor traps, live traps, whether outside or in the home, are great for getting rid of the rodents without killing them. Live trapping outside is easier because it just sort of happens, but inside live trapping will take careful trap placement. Putting the traps near apparent exits to the attic or possible nesting sites will help with that. Obviously, live traps need to be checked regularly, otherwise, the captured critter will die. Vigilance is important with live traps.
Flying squirrels can damage bird feeders and cause damage to a home, but if they’re still outside where they belong, live traps are a great way to get rid of them without having to kill them.
Make sure you’re careful with the traps, though, as anything captured inside is likely to be a little upset at its predicament. Careful handling of live traps and use of protective clothing will help ensure that you’re okay and the flying squirrel can safely return to the wild once you set it free.
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