How to Beat the Flying Squirrel 
If you have been plagued by flying squirrels on your property, you have probably wondered how to catch them. If you don’t have the time to catch them yourself, you can set traps, poison them, and release them. However, if you live in an urban or rural area, there are more humane ways to deal with the problem. Read on to discover more. Here are three effective methods:
Predators of flying squirrels
The flight-like ability of the flying squirrel helps it to avoid its predators. This species can fly over 100 feet, and its long tail, relative to its body mass, serves as a parachute. The species is also known for making 180-degree turns during gliding. Predators of flying squirrels include cats, raccoons, and owls. Predators of flying squirrels are most prevalent during the night, when they are most active.
The southern flying squirrel is a member of the ring-tailed family of birds, and they often feed on fruit, nuts, and other plant material. Their diet also includes insects, flower buds, and tree sap. In the wild, flying squirrels share their dens with screech owls and bats. Its diet is an interesting aspect of flying squirrel behavior, since it helps the species conserve other endangered species, such as pine martens.
Traps to catch them
While you can’t catch the flying squirrel, you can capture them in a trap. These traps work best with unsalted nuts or peanut butter. Then, wait a day before checking them. If they haven’t escaped, they might decide to take shelter in the woods. However, if they do manage to escape, they should be safely relocated. A good place to relocate the flying squirrel is at least five miles from your house.
To catch the flying squirrel, set a trap with an automatic door and bait. Place some bait inside the trap, leading into the door. The trailing scent should cause the flying squirrel to approach the trap and not get out. Place the trap at least five feet from a dropping area or nest. If you’re trapped with more than one flying squirrel, set another trap a few feet away. This will catch both squirrels and the flying squirrel.
Poisoning them
Poisoning flying squirrels is one way to get rid of them. The poison does not kill instantly, so you’ll have to wait for a few minutes before they start moaning and fading away. If you are lucky enough to catch them in your attic, they’ll likely be in a safe place by the time you get to them. If not, you should consider another method.
The most effective poison for flying squirrels is diphacinone, a combination of chlorophacinone and diphacinone. Prepare it by spreading out rolled oats and mixing it with the poison. Place the bait where the safe grains have been eaten. Be sure to apply a few tablespoons to each area. Do not overdo the poison, as this may attract other nuisance animals.
Releasing them
When releasing the flying critters, it is important to make sure that the area is out of the way. Flying squirrels can fly for up to 16 hectares (160000 square meters), so it would be dangerous to release them outside of your home. If you release them in the open, they can become prey to large birds, but some can even climb trees to attack the flying squirrels. Therefore, you should make sure to cover the trap before releasing it.
If you are not sure whether you can safely kill the flying squirrel, it is best to contact your local humane society. You must be aware of closed seasons and avoid using poisons. This can also put you at risk for animal-borne diseases. The best solution is to contact your local humane society and release the flying squirrels back into the wild. Aside from humane killing methods, trapping the flying squirrel is also an option.
What is the best way to beat the flying squirrel?
There is no one definitive answer to this question.
Some people recommend using a pellet gun while others recommend using a slingshot.
How do I determine which method of squirrel control is best for me?
It depends on your personal preference and the resources you have available.
If you have a pellet gun that may be your best option.
If you don’t have a pellet gun a slingshot may be your best option.
What are the pros and cons of using a pellet gun to kill a flying squirrel?
The pros of using a pellet gun to kill a flying squirrel include that it is a very effective method and that it is relatively humane.
The cons of using a pellet gun to kill a flying squirrel include that it can be dangerous and that it requires a steady hand.
What are the pros and cons of using a slingshot to kill a flying squirrel?
The pros of using a slingshot to kill a flying squirrel include that it is relatively humane and that it is inexpensive.
The cons of using a slingshot to kill a flying squirrel include that it can be dangerous and that it requires a steady hand and good aim.
How does a pellet gun work?
A pellet gun works by firing a small metal pellet at a high velocity.
The pellet is designed to penetrate the skull of the animal causing a quick and humane death.
How does a slingshot work?
A slingshot works by firing a small stone or other projectile at a high velocity.
The projectile is designed to penetrate the skull of the animal causing a quick and humane death.
What is the best brand of pellet gun for squirrel hunting?
There is no definitive answer to this question.
Some people recommend Crosman pellet guns while others recommend Gamo pellet guns.
What is the best brand of slingshot for squirrel hunting?
There is no definitive answer to this question.
Some people recommend Daisy slingshots while others recommend Trumark slingshots.
How do I load a pellet gun?
To load a pellet gun first make sure that the safety is on.
Second insert a pellet into the chamber.
Third cock the gun by pulling back on the cocking mechanism.
Fourth aim the gun at your target.
Finally squeeze the trigger to fire the gun.
How do I load a slingshot?
To load a slingshot first insert a stone or other projectile into the pouch.
Second stretch back the rubber band.
Third aim the slingshot at your target.
Finally release the rubber band to fire the projectile.
How do I aim a pellet gun?
To aim a pellet gun first make sure that the safety is on.
Second cock the gun by pulling back on the cocking mechanism.
Third take aim at your target.
Finally squeeze the trigger to fire the gun.
How do I aim a slingshot?
To aim a slingshot first stretch back the rubber band.
Second take aim at your target.
Finally release the rubber band to fire the projectile.
How do I clean a pellet gun?
To clean a pellet gun first make sure that the gun is unloaded.
Second use a brush to remove any dirt or debris from the barrel.
Third use a cloth to wipe down the rest of the gun.
Fourth oil the gun to prevent rust.
How do I clean a slingshot?
To clean a slingshot first remove the stone or other projectile from the pouch.
Second use a brush to remove any dirt or debris from the pouch.
Third use a cloth to wipe down the rest of the slingshot.
Fourth oil the slingshot to prevent rust.
What are some safety tips for using a pellet gun?
Some safety tips for using a pellet gun include always keeping the safety on only cocking the gun when you are ready to shoot and never pointing the gun at anything you don’t want to shoot.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
