How to Release a Squirrel From a Havahart Trap
If you’ve ever caught a squirrel in a havahart trap, you probably know how to identify the animal before releasing it. You can also learn how to set up the trap, how to release a squirrel, and what to do if the squirrel has been injured. These three tips will ensure the squirrel’s safety. In addition to helping you release the animal, they will also provide you with information about the legalities of releasing a captured squirrel.
Table of Contents
Identifying a squirrel in a havahart trap
Once you’ve found a live squirrel in your havahart trap, you should learn how to identify the species and release it safely. While they may look cute and cuddly, squirrels can cause a great deal of damage to your home and property. They’re also notorious for chewing electrical wires and gnawing on walls. However, live trapping is a safe and effective way to get rid of squirrels without harming your property. When preparing your trap, you should first identify the species you’re attempting to capture and the best way to proceed.
Next, you’ll need to determine whether the squirrel is a mother or a baby. Although mothers tend to be protective of their young, they’re actually not necessarily more difficult to identify. The mother may not be present in the trap, and you can treat her like any other squirrel. Just make sure to remove any debris that may contain potential food sources. If you suspect a mother squirrel, identify her as such.
Setting up a havahart trap
If you’ve never set up a Havahart trap before, you might not be sure how to get started. There are some important tips you should follow, including placing the bait correctly and opening the trap door. Watch Havahart’s video instructions for more details. You should also make sure you have at least five miles between the trap and the wildlife it catches to prevent it from being infected.
When setting up a Havahart trap to release a squirrel, remember to put peanuts on either side of the trigger plate. This is because this bait is highly attractive to squirrels. If you place a peanut on the middle of the plate, the squirrel will step into the trap, lulling it into complacency. You should also place the trap far enough away from bushes and other low-lying areas.
Releasing a squirrel from a havahart trap
It is important to follow certain guidelines when releasing a squirrel from a havahard trap. A small distance away from its home is best. Remember that this small animal will fight to defend its territory and will attack any newcomers. You should not release a trapped squirrel into a city park or open field as it will not be welcomed by the neighbors. Besides, it will probably die from the stress of the escape and starvation. Furthermore, releasing it at night will discourage it from returning.
The second tip when releasing a squirrel from a Havahart trap is to use peanut butter. Squirrels enjoy nut butter. So, placing a small amount of peanut butter near the trigger plate can attract them. Place peanuts around the trap and wait for them to step on it. A squirrel will soon fall victim to this method. This technique is more effective if the trap is placed near a tree.
Legality of releasing a squirrel from a havahart trap
If you are unsure about the legality of releasing a squirrel from snare traps, you may wonder how to release a trapped squirrel. Many states have laws against squirrel trapping, and it is illegal in many states to kill a squirrel. While many people release squirrels after trapping, there are ways to safely and humanely trap and release a squirrel. Here are a few ideas.
Before releasing an unintentionally trapped animal, consider where it will be relocated. During winter, squirrels depend on food caches that they bury near the trap. If you have a vehicle, don’t take the squirrel with you. You are destroying its food cache and putting it at risk of starvation. Remember to contact the DEC for more information.
What are some of the things you need in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
In order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap you will need a Havahart trap gloves and a release pole.
What is the first thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
The first thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap is to put on gloves.
Why do you need to put on gloves?
You need to put on gloves in order to protect your hands from the squirrel’s teeth and claws.
What is the second thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
The second thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap is to approach the trap slowly and calmly.
Why do you need to approach the trap slowly and calmly?
You need to approach the trap slowly and calmly in order to avoid startling the squirrel and causing it to become more aggressive.
What is the third thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
The third thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap is to place the release pole into the trap.
What is the fourth thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
The fourth thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap is to open the door of the trap.
What is the fifth thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
The fifth thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap is to guide the squirrel out of the trap with the release pole.
What is the sixth thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
The sixth thing you need to do in order to release a squirrel from a Havahart trap is to release the squirrel in an area away from your home.
Why do you need to release the squirrel in an area away from your home?
You need to release the squirrel in an area away from your home because if you do not the squirrel will likely try to return and you will have to go through the whole process again.
What are some of the things that you should not do when releasing a squirrel from a Havahart trap?
Some of the things that you should not do when releasing a squirrel from a Havahart trap include: dropping the squirrel touching the squirrel without gloves and released the squirrel near other animals or people.
What should you do with the Havahart trap after you have released the squirrel?
After you have released the squirrel you should clean the Havahart trap with soap and water to remove any scent that might attract other animals.
How often should you check your Havahart trap?
You should check your Havahart trap at least once a day.
What should you do if you catch a non-target animal in your Havahart trap?
If you catch a non-target animal in your Havahart trap you should release it immediately in an area away from your home.
What should you do if you have questions or need assistance with using your Havahart trap?
If you have questions or need assistance with using your Havahart trap you should contact a professional trapper or the manufacturer of the trap.

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.