Flying squirrels are nocturnal creatures that can be a challenge to deal with when they invade your home or property. These small, agile rodents can fit through tiny openings and are notorious for nesting in attics, walls, and other hidden spaces. If you're facing a flying squirrel problem, trapping them is one of the most effective solutions. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to trap flying squirrels.

1. Understand the Behavior of Flying Squirrels

Before setting traps, it’s essential to understand the behavior of flying squirrels. Unlike tree squirrels, flying squirrels are nocturnal, which means they are most active during the night. They typically nest in high, secluded areas like attics, rafters, and ceilings. Flying squirrels are also very agile, capable of gliding from tree to tree or even between buildings.

Understanding this behavior will help you set traps more effectively, especially by targeting areas where they are likely to frequent during their active hours.

2. Choose the Right Trap

To trap a flying squirrel, it’s crucial to use the right type of trap. There are several kinds of traps to consider, but the most effective ones are live traps. These traps allow you to capture the squirrel humanely without causing harm. Here's what to look for:

• Live Cage Trap: These traps are ideal for catching flying squirrels without hurting them. Look for a trap that’s at least 10 to 12 inches long, as flying squirrels are small but can be a little bigger than regular tree squirrels.
• Squirrel-Specific Trap: There are traps specifically designed for squirrels, featuring a door that automatically closes when triggered. These traps often come with a spring mechanism that ensures the door shuts once the squirrel enters.

Be sure to select a trap that is sturdy, made of metal, and can hold a flying squirrel securely without damaging it.

3. Bait the Trap

Flying squirrels are attracted to various types of food, so it’s essential to use the right bait to entice them into the trap. Some of the most effective baits include:

• Peanut Butter: This is one of the most commonly used baits because of its strong scent and sticky texture, which encourages squirrels to engage with the trap.
• Nuts and Seeds: Flying squirrels love nuts such as sunflower seeds, almonds, or walnuts. Place the nuts inside the trap to lure them.
• Fruit: Fresh fruit, like apples, grapes, or bananas, can also attract flying squirrels, especially if you’re trying to catch them during the late evening.
• Oats and Grains: Some flying squirrels are drawn to grains, so consider using oatmeal or dried corn as bait.

Place the bait at the far end of the trap to ensure that the squirrel has to fully enter the trap to access the food, triggering the mechanism.

4. Set the Trap in the Right Location

Location is crucial when it comes to trapping flying squirrels. Since they are nocturnal and often nest in high areas, here are some strategic places to set the traps:

• Near Entry Points: If you’ve already discovered the entry points that the flying squirrels are using to get into your home (like holes in the attic or vents), place traps close to these points. Flying squirrels are likely to approach these areas frequently.
• In Attics or Roof Spaces: These areas are ideal because flying squirrels prefer high places to nest. Place traps in corners or areas where you've noticed signs of squirrel activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or squirrel nesting material.
• On Trees: If you suspect that flying squirrels are entering your home from a nearby tree or structure, consider setting traps at the base of the tree or on nearby branches. Flying squirrels are great climbers, and they might be using trees as a bridge to get to your house.
• Close to Nesting Areas: If you suspect the squirrels have nested in your attic, place traps around areas where they might be hiding, such as rafters, insulation, or along beams.

5. Set the Trap at the Right Time

Flying squirrels are nocturnal, so the best time to set your traps is in the evening, just before dusk. This gives the squirrels plenty of time to become active and approach the trap.

• Leave the Trap Overnight: Set the trap late in the day and leave it overnight, as flying squirrels are more likely to emerge at night. Check the trap in the morning to see if you’ve captured any squirrels.

6. Monitor the Trap Regularly

Once your trap is set, it’s essential to check it frequently, especially in the morning. A trapped flying squirrel should not be left in the cage for extended periods, as it can become stressed or injured. The sooner you check the trap, the more humane the process will be.

If you capture a flying squirrel, release it promptly. Ensure that you release the squirrel at least 5–10 miles away from your property to prevent it from finding its way back. Make sure the area is far enough away that the squirrel can’t return to your home.

7. Prevent Future Squirrel Problems

Once you’ve trapped and relocated the flying squirrels, the next step is to prevent them from returning. Here’s how you can keep them from coming back:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home and seal any holes, gaps, or cracks that could be used as entry points for flying squirrels. Use materials like steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth to block these openings.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Flying squirrels are excellent climbers and can easily access your attic or roof if there are nearby trees or shrubs. Trim back any branches that are within 8-10 feet of your home to reduce the likelihood of them jumping onto the roof or entering your home.
• Install a One-Way Exclusion Door: If squirrels are entering through a particular hole, consider installing a one-way exclusion door, which allows them to exit but prevents them from getting back in.
• Set up Repellents: Use squirrel repellents such as peppermint oil or ammonia around entry points to deter them from entering your attic again.

Conclusion: How to Trap Flying Squirrels

Trapping flying squirrels can be a simple and humane way to deal with a squirrel infestation. By selecting the right trap, using the right bait, and setting it in the proper location, you can successfully capture flying squirrels without causing them harm. However, it’s equally important to take preventive measures afterward to ensure that these clever creatures don’t return. By sealing entry points and making your home less inviting, you can reduce the likelihood of future squirrel problems.

Always remember to release any trapped flying squirrels promptly and humanely to ensure that they are not harmed in the process.