Live cage traps, either single or multi-catch, involve attracting squirrels to a trap with a bait (food). These can be used in the same way as spring traps. Set them at the base of trees and cover with logs. It is best to pre-bait these traps, leaving the entrances open so that the squirrels can run freely for a few days before setting.
The density of traps required depends on whether single or multi- capture traps are used.
Single traps should be spaced 75-125m apart, multi-traps 150-200m apart, equating to one trap per ha. In areas where it is difficult to draw squirrels to the ground, for example pine mixtures or where traps are disturbed by badgers, deer or wild boar, it may be necessary to site traps on platforms on the trees.
Captured squirrels should be humanely destroyed by guiding them to one end of the trap, where they can be killed with an air rifle, or the traps can be emptied into a sack and the squirrels dispatched through a swift, heavy blow to the head. Non-target species should be released immediately.