How to Live Trap a Ground Squirrel
When learning how to live trap a ground squirrel, you should understand the LT5518RD snap trap, the LT5518RD, and its bait. You also need to understand the placement of the snap trap, the proper bait, and the proper time to use the snap trap. These tips will help you successfully catch a ground squirrel. Read on to learn how to live trap a ground squirrel! The following steps will guide you through the entire process.
Table of Contents
LT5518RD is a ground squirrel live trap
The LT5518RD is a ground-squirrel trap, designed to catch small rodents. The rodents, which live in the northwest, are very small and gnaw on a variety of foods, including seeds, nuts, and fruit. They also enjoy a variety of plant life, and will forage into homes. These pests are not only a nuisance, but also carry disease and transmit viruses.
The LT5518RD is a standard ground squirrel live trap that measures 24″L x 5″W x 5″H. These pests are often found near burrows, so setting the trap a few feet from the entrance to the burrow will make it more likely to attract the animals. Once the trap is placed in an area where ground squirrels forage, it should be staked to a tree or other solid object, such as a post or fence.
While the LT5518RD is a great way to catch ground squirrels, it is also important to know the best way to safely dispose of the trap. While aluminum phosphide is highly effective at destroying ground squirrels, it should be used only by licensed pest management professionals and is not suitable for use in residential areas. It is also important to note that the fumigants must be applied 100 feet away from homes and structures that are occupied by humans, pets, or livestock.
Placement
When placing a live trap for ground squirrels, you have to consider several factors. First, you have to consider where the squirrels normally travel. They usually travel along the base of a tree, the fence near a bird feeder, and the wall of a damaged home. Once you know where the ground squirrels will travel, you can set the trap in the right location. Also, the trap should be stable so that it will not collapse or move around while the critter is caught.
Once you have determined where the ground squirrels are likely to be, you should place the trap over the entrance. You can use a snap trap, GREEN ECO 5X5X16, or the LT5518RD, depending on the species. Once you place the trap, you have to check the area at least once a day to ensure that it has not been sprung. Make sure you have enough room for the trap to operate properly. If you don’t catch any ground squirrels, move the trap to another area.
Bait
Whether you are trying to catch a ground squirrel for pet food or are attempting to get rid of the problem permanently, it is important to choose the right bait. Ground squirrels prefer unsalted nuts and seed, so placing some in bird feeders will attract the animal. Remember that birds will compete with the ground squirrel for food, so if you can find some bird seed, it will work as bait as well.
After selecting the bait, you must set the trap and place it in a location where the squirrel will most likely travel. Some good locations include the base of a tree, a fence near a bird feeder, or a wall near a ruined house. Before baiting your trap, locate a squirrel’s travel paths and wait until they come near them. If you don’t see any squirrels in your area, set the trap in such a way that they won’t be able to escape.
Time
There are many methods of getting rid of ground squirrels. Among them are squirrel decoys. These decoys should be placed in different areas of your yard on a regular basis. Live traps are best if you’d like to reintroduce the squirrel to its natural habitat. These traps can be bought from hardware stores and baited with bird seed or peanut butter. Some people even place pretzels in them. If you’re concerned about the safety of traps, you can hire a wildlife rehabilitator.
While live traps can be effective, they are not usually recommended for long-term management. For starters, live traps present a disposal problem. After capturing the animal, the ground squirrel must either be released immediately or be put down using legal methods. The American Veterinary Medical Association has approved certain methods for killing ground squirrels. Don’t drown them, though – it can kill them. You should follow all local laws and regulations when using a live trap.
How do you set a live trap for a ground squirrel?
You need to set the trap in an area where you have seen the ground squirrels travel and place bait such as sunflower seeds in the back of the trap.
Once the trap is set check it regularly to see if you have caught a squirrel.
Do ground squirrels hibernate?
No ground squirrels do not hibernate.
What kind of damage do ground squirrels do?
Ground squirrels typically eat seeds bulbs and other plant material.
However they can also damage crops such as vegetables by eating them.
Additionally their burrowing can damage the roots of trees and shrubs.
What is the best time of year to live trap ground squirrels?
The best time of year to live trap ground squirrels is in the spring or early summer.
This is because they are most active during these times of the year.
How long can ground squirrels live?
Ground squirrels can live up to six years in the wild.
Where do ground squirrels live?
Ground squirrels typically live in areas with grassy vegetation and ample food sources such as fields prairies and parks.
What do ground squirrels eat?
Ground squirrels typically eat seeds bulbs and other plant material.
What is the average size of a ground squirrel?
The average ground squirrel is about 10 inches long including the tail and weighs between 6 and 8 ounces.
What is the best bait to use for live trapping a ground squirrel?
The best bait to use for live trapping a ground squirrel is sunflower seeds.
How often should you check a live trap set for a ground squirrel?
You should check a live trap set for a ground squirrel at least once every 24 hours.
What should you do if you catch a ground squirrel in a live trap?
If you catch a ground squirrel in a live trap you should release it at least one mile from your home to ensure that it does not come back.
What is the best way to prevent ground squirrels from damaging your property?
The best way to prevent ground squirrels from damaging your property is to live trap and remove them from the area.
Additionally you can seal up any holes or cracks that they may use to gain access to your home or property.
What is the best way to deter ground squirrels from eating your plants?
The best way to deter ground squirrels from eating your plants is to put a fence around the area such as chicken wire.
Do ground squirrels carry any diseases?
Yes ground squirrels can carry diseases such as bubonic plague and salmonellosis.
What is the best way to get rid of ground squirrels?
The best way to get rid of ground squirrels is to live trap and remove them from the area.
Additionally you can seal up any holes or cracks that they may use to gain access to your home or property.

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.