Modifying the habitat Squirrels can be prevented from climbing trees and gaining access to roofs by trimming limbs 6 to 8 feet away from buildings. Overhanging limbs may require a greater amount of trimming. Trapping squirrels Figure 7. A professional placing squirrel cage traps on roof. Cage traps for squirrels should be 18 to 24 inches long with a 6 x 6 inch door.
Place traps outside and very near the squirrel's entry hole.
Bait the trap with corn, peanut butter, pecan pieces, orange, apple or nuts. Urban residents should notify neighbors and check with authorities before they do trapping. Traps should be checked twice daily. Shooting squirrels Squirrels that are causing damage in rural areas can be safely removed by shooting with a shotgun or small-caliber rifle. It is not advisable to shoot squirrels in urban areas because of the obvious dangers to animals and people.