Why Is It Illegal To Release A Trapped Squirrel?

In most places, It is illegal to release a trapped grey squirrel into the wild or to keep a grey squirrel in captivity. The primary reason for this is to prevent the transmission of diseases and parasites. It is therefore illogical to release a trapped squirrel and releasing a squirrel outside of its original territory is actually illegal in most jurisdictions.

However, releasing squirrels is rare and warnings are often issued. If you find one in the wild, don’t let it go. The only way to help it is to keep it in a safe environment. This article will explain the laws that apply to the releasing of trapped squirrels.

 

If you are caught a squirrel, remember that it is not allowed to be released. It is illegal to set up traps that are designed for releasing wild animals. These methods are also cruel to the animals. Even if they are labeled “humane,” they can still cause great suffering and even death.

So, it is always advisable to relocate the squirrel in the woods instead of letting it die.

Trapping squirrels may seem like a nice idea, but is not permitted to release it back into the wild. In addition to trapping it, the process can also be dangerous. It is highly recommended to relocate the trapped animal to a safe place, such as a forest.

The ideal situation is an underdeveloped area with a nearby water source. A properly-placed squirrel should be able to live there for the rest of its life.

The common reasons for releasing a trapped squirrel such as the gray squirrel is because it is a wild animal, and needed to be rescued from a solitary life. It is best to find a natural place for it to spend its remaining years.

The best place for a squirrel is the woods, where they can survive the winter. It is also a good idea to relocate a squirrel that is in mid-winter because they are depending on their food cache for survival.

Read More: What Does it Means When a Squirrel Wags Its Tail

While trapping a squirrel is legal, it isn’t a good long-term solution. Moreover, releasing a captured squirrel in a populated area is cruel and can lead to starvation. Additionally, relocating a trapped animal is often illegal in many places.

It will likely not have access to food, water, and shelter, which will result in something that can be likened to a death sentence. It is also dangerous to the other animals in the wildlife that has been relocated.

While it is not lawful to release a trapped squirrel, it is still an option for homeowners who are concerned about the welfare of the animal. While this seems the most humane treatment and ethical method, it’s a temporary solution, and not a good option for pets.

The animals’ health is at risk if they’re released into an unsafe environment. So, trapping a squirrel is an excellent solution for homeowners who are concerned about the safety of their homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can a squirrel stay trapped?

Do not keep an animal trapped in the cage for longer than 24 hours. Any non-target animals should be released immediately. Once you have captured a squirrel in your live trap, check your local authorities to make sure you are correctly relocating the animal.

What to do if you catch a squirrel?

Provide water and foods and take the cage in your car to a place situated far away from your house. You can release the squirrel after making sure that place is good enough for providing squirrel water and food.

Can squirrels be trapped and relocated?

Studies have shown that most squirrels relocated after being trapped die soon after their relocation because they are not familiar enough with the area to survive. The best option is to contact a wildlife rehabilitator and follow their instructions.

How far away do you need to release a squirrel?

Anytime you are relocating squirrels, you generally want to bring them at least 25 miles away from your home to avoid the squirrels from coming back.

How long does it take to trap a squirrel?

Without a pre-bait period it may take two to three weeks to catch the squirrels with a daily (preferably twice-daily) visit necessary throughout.