Introduction
Grey squirrels may look harmless, but they are among the most destructive pests in the UK. They chew through electrical wiring, damage timber beams, and strip bark from trees. They raid bird feeders, destroy fruit crops, and often nest in lofts where they cause sleepless nights for homeowners.
The right trap can protect your home and garden from this costly damage. But with so many traps available, how do you choose the best one? This article explores the options in detail, comparing live catch traps, traditional kill traps, and modern self resetting traps such as Goodnature.
For a full overview of squirrel control methods, including costs and legal responsibilities, see our complete guide to squirrel traps in the UK.
What makes a squirrel trap effective
When deciding which trap is best for protecting your property, there are four main factors to consider:
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Effectiveness – how reliably the trap captures or dispatches squirrels
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Humaneness – whether the trap causes unnecessary suffering
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Practicality – how easy it is to set, maintain, and monitor
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Long term value – whether the cost is justified by durability and performance
Each type of trap has strengths and weaknesses in these areas.
Live catch traps
Live catch traps are cage style devices designed to capture squirrels without harming them initially.
Pros
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Low upfront cost
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Simple design and widely available
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Can be reused many times if maintained
Cons
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In the UK, you cannot legally release grey squirrels once caught, so you must dispatch them yourself
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Requires frequent checking and rebaiting
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Can be stressful for both the animal and the user
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Prone to rust and weather damage outdoors
Best for: Short term or occasional problems where cost is the main concern.
Kill traps
Traditional kill traps are designed to dispatch squirrels instantly.
Pros
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Quick and humane when approved models are used
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Affordable compared with ongoing pest control services
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Effective indoors in lofts or outbuildings
Cons
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Must be reset manually after each use
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Risk of capturing non target animals if placed incorrectly
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Less practical outdoors for long periods
Best for: Indoor use or for homeowners who want a reliable but low cost solution.
Goodnature self resetting traps
Goodnature traps represent a more modern approach. They use a CO₂ powered mechanism to deliver an instant kill and then reset automatically, allowing them to dispatch multiple squirrels without intervention.
Pros
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Tested and approved for humane use in the UK
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Self resetting, reducing labour and handling
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Weather resistant and designed for long term outdoor use
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Includes a counter so you know how many activations have occurred
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Long life lure reduces the need for rebaiting
Cons
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Higher upfront cost compared with basic traps
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Requires occasional CO₂ and lure refills
Best for: Homeowners who want a long lasting, humane, and low maintenance solution for both homes and gardens.
Comparison of trap types
| Trap Type | Price Range | Effectiveness | Humane Rating | Maintenance | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live catch trap | £30 to £60 | Moderate | Humane in capture but requires dispatch | High, needs frequent rebaiting | 1 to 3 years |
| Traditional kill trap | £40 to £60 | High | Humane if approved | Medium, must be reset after each use | 3 to 5 years |
| Goodnature self resetting trap | £120 to £150 | Very high | Tested and certified humane | Low, refills every few months | 5 to 10 years |
Best traps for specific situations
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Best trap for loft infestations: A traditional approved kill trap placed correctly along runways
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Best trap for small gardens: A heavy duty live catch trap if budget is the main concern
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Best trap for long term outdoor control: The Goodnature A18, due to its self resetting design and weather resistance
Why Goodnature stands out
While Goodnature traps cost more initially, they often prove to be the most economical and humane choice in the long run. A single Goodnature trap can last for a decade, whereas cheaper cages may need to be replaced every couple of years. Their self resetting feature also removes the hassle of checking and resetting after every capture.
Common mistakes to avoid when choosing a trap
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Buying a trap that is not approved for humane use
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Placing traps in the wrong location, such as open areas where squirrels are less likely to travel
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Using bait that attracts birds instead of squirrels
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Assuming that releasing a captured grey squirrel is legal
Avoiding these mistakes will increase the effectiveness of whichever trap you choose.
FAQs
What is the most humane squirrel trap in the UK
The Goodnature A18 is widely recognised as one of the most humane traps because it is tested and approved for instant kills.
Are live catch traps legal in the UK
Yes, but you cannot release a grey squirrel once caught. The animal must be dispatched humanely.
How much do the best squirrel traps cost
Live catch and traditional kill traps cost between £30 and £60. Goodnature traps cost between £120 and £150 but are designed to last for many years.
Do traps work in winter
Yes, traps remain effective in winter when squirrels are looking for food and shelter. Goodnature traps are particularly reliable outdoors during cold weather.
Can I use one trap for both rats and squirrels
Some traps are designed for multiple species, but it is important to use the correct size and an approved design for humane use. Goodnature offers models specifically approved for squirrels.
How often should traps be checked
All traps must be checked at least once every twenty four hours under UK law.
Which trap is best for long term garden protection
The Goodnature A18 is the best option for long term outdoor use because it is weather resistant, self resetting, and humane.
Conclusion
There is no single trap that is perfect for every situation, but there are clear differences in cost, effectiveness, and convenience. Live catch traps are affordable but labour intensive and legally complicated. Traditional kill traps are reliable and humane but require regular resetting. Goodnature traps are more expensive initially but provide the most humane, low maintenance, and durable solution for both home and garden protection.
For UK homeowners who want peace of mind and a long term answer to squirrel infestations, Goodnature traps are often the best investment.
If you would like to learn more about squirrel traps, their costs, and how to use them effectively, you can explore our complete guide to squirrel traps in the UK.