The Complete Guide to Squirrel Traps in the UK

Introduction

Grey squirrels may look harmless in the garden, but in the UK they are one of the most destructive pests. They chew through loft insulation and electrical wiring, strip bark from trees, and raid bird feeders. Left unchecked, infestations can become both costly and stressful.

This complete guide to squirrel traps in the UK will give you everything you need to make the right choice. You will learn:

What squirrel traps are and how they work
The benefits of using traps compared with other control methods
The costs, risks, and legal responsibilities you must understand
A clear step-by-step process for using traps effectively
Honest comparisons of the best traps available in the UK
Answers to the most frequently asked questions

At Dalton Supplies we have worked with pest control professionals, farmers, and homeowners for more than twenty years. We are an authorised supplier of Goodnature traps, one of the most innovative and humane trap brands on the market. Whilst we believe in the reliability of Goodnature, this guide is written to be an honest and comprehensive resource about squirrel control so that you can make an informed decision.

What are squirrel traps

A squirrel trap is a device used to capture or dispatch squirrels that cause damage in homes, gardens, and farms. There are two main categories.

Live catch traps

These traps capture the squirrel without harming it. The animal is contained in a secure cage. In the UK, it is important to note that grey squirrels cannot legally be released once caught.

Kill traps

These traps are designed to dispatch the squirrel instantly. When set correctly they are approved for humane use and must comply with UK animal welfare regulations.

Goodnature traps

Goodnature traps are a modern form of kill trap that are powered by a CO₂ canister. They are self-resetting, which means they can dispatch multiple squirrels before needing to be checked or reset. This makes them popular with both professionals and homeowners who want a long-term solution.

Why this matters in the UK:

Grey squirrels are an invasive species introduced in the nineteenth century
They threaten the survival of the native red squirrel
They cause millions of pounds worth of damage every year to homes and forestry

Why squirrel traps matter

Short-term benefits

Protects loft insulation and electrical wiring from being chewed
Reduces noise and disturbance caused by squirrels nesting in roofs
Protects fruit trees, bulbs, and garden plants

Long-term benefits

Prevents expensive repairs caused by structural damage
Helps protect the environment and conserve red squirrels
Reduces the risk of repeat infestations
Provides peace of mind knowing the problem is under control

Why Goodnature traps stand out

They are approved for humane use and deliver an instant kill
They self-reset, meaning you do not need to rebait or reset after every catch
They are weather-resistant and designed for outdoor use over long periods
They reduce labour time compared to manual traps

Industry statistics

The Forestry Commission estimates that grey squirrels cost the UK economy more than forty million pounds every year in damage
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds reports that grey squirrels now outnumber red squirrels by twenty to one in many areas

Key considerations before buying

Cost

Basic cage traps: £15–£30
Heavy-duty cage traps: £30–£60
Professional grade traps: £60+
Goodnature traps: typically £100–£150 but designed to last for years with minimal maintenance
Ongoing costs: bait, cleaning supplies, CO₂ canisters for Goodnature

Legal responsibilities

Grey squirrels cannot be released back into the wild under UK law
Traps must be checked at least once every twenty-four hours
Kill traps must be approved and humane
Goodnature traps are approved and meet these requirements

Common misconceptions

Myth: All traps are cruel
Reality: Approved traps such as Goodnature are designed for quick and humane control

Myth: Squirrels only live outside
Reality: Infestations frequently occur in lofts and attics where they nest and chew through wiring

How to use squirrel traps step-by-step

Follow these steps to use a squirrel trap effectively.

1. Identify the problem area

Look for droppings, chewed beams, or noises in the loft.

2. Choose the right trap

Select between live catch, traditional kill traps, or modern self-resetting traps such as Goodnature.

3. Select bait

Peanuts, sunflower seeds, maize, and peanut butter are highly effective. Goodnature traps use long-life lures that reduce the need for rebaiting.

4. Place the trap

Position along squirrel runways, such as loft beams, garden fences, or near feeding areas.

5. Set the trap securely

Follow instructions carefully. Goodnature traps require mounting on a tree, post, or wall.

6. Check daily

All traps must be checked at least once every twenty-four hours. Goodnature traps have counters so you know how many animals have been dispatched.

7. Handle the squirrel appropriately

Dispose of remains in line with local regulations.

8. Maintain the trap

Clean and reset where required. For Goodnature, replace the CO₂ canister and lure as directed.

Best squirrel traps in the UK

Comparison table of recommended traps

Trap Name	Type	Price Range	Best For	Our Review
Heavy Duty Live Catch Trap	Live catch	£35	Gardens and outdoor areas	Reliable and humane but requires dispatching the animal yourself
Professional Kill Trap	Kill trap	£55	Lofts and attics	Quick and effective but must be reset manually
Goodnature A18 Trap	Self-resetting kill trap	£120–£150	Long-term control outdoors	Humane, efficient, and low maintenance

Best in class recommendations

Best trap for lofts: Professional Kill Trap
Best trap for gardens: Heavy Duty Live Catch Trap
Best trap for long-term outdoor use: Goodnature A18

Frequently asked questions

Are humane traps worth the cost?

Yes, especially if you use a Goodnature trap. Whilst the upfront price is higher than a cage or spring trap, Goodnature is self-resetting and can dispatch up to twenty squirrels before needing maintenance. This makes it highly cost-effective over time.

Do squirrel traps work in winter?

Yes, particularly Goodnature traps which are weather-resistant and continue to operate effectively in cold or wet conditions.

How often should traps be checked?

All traps must be checked daily. With Goodnature traps, the counter shows how many activations have taken place since the last check, which makes monitoring easier.

Do you need a licence to trap squirrels in the UK?

No licence is required to trap grey squirrels in the UK as they are classified as an invasive pest species. However, you must follow legal requirements including checking traps daily and not releasing caught grey squirrels.

What bait works best for squirrels?

Peanuts, sunflower seeds, maize, and peanut butter are all highly effective. Goodnature traps use specially formulated long-life lures that last longer than traditional baits.

Can you release a trapped squirrel?

No, under UK law it is illegal to release grey squirrels back into the wild once they have been trapped. They must be humanely dispatched.

How long does it take to catch a squirrel?

This varies depending on the squirrel population and trap placement. Some traps catch squirrels within hours, whilst others may take several days. Patience and proper positioning are key.

Are squirrel traps safe around pets and children?

When properly positioned and used according to instructions, quality traps are safe. Kill traps should be placed in areas inaccessible to pets and children. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.

What time of year is best for trapping squirrels?

Squirrels are active year-round, but autumn and winter can be particularly effective as natural food sources become scarcer and they are more likely to be attracted to bait.

How do I know if I have a squirrel problem?

Common signs include scratching noises in the loft, chewed wood or wiring, squirrel droppings, and damage to bird feeders or garden plants.

Conclusion

This complete guide to squirrel traps in the UK has covered everything you need to know, from the basics of live catch and kill traps to the modern advantages of self-resetting traps such as Goodnature. By understanding the types of traps available, the legal requirements, and the step-by-step process, you can protect your property and play a part in controlling an invasive species.

For long-term, humane, and efficient control, Goodnature traps are a proven choice. However, whichever trap you select, the most important factor is using it responsibly and in line with UK law.

Explore our product range today or contact Dalton Supplies for expert advice tailored to your situation.

Further Information:

Price differences between live catch and kill squirrel traps

The cost of hiring pest control versus buying squirrel traps

How much should you expect to pay for humane squirrel control

The biggest problems people face with squirrel traps and how to solve them

What happens if you do not deal with a squirrel infestation properly

Live catch squirrel traps versus kill traps A full comparison for UK homeowners

Squirrel traps versus professional pest control Which is right for you?

The best squirrel traps for protecting your home and garden in the UK

The top tips and tools for getting the most out of your squirrel traps