How Far Should You Release a Squirrel to Stop It from Coming Back?

Rodents, Reptiles & Bats
1

Hey everyone!
I’ve been live-trapping a persistent squirrel that keeps raiding my bird feeders and chewing through my attic vents. I’ve released it ​3 times (1 mile away, then 3 miles, then 5 miles), but like a furry boomerang, it always comes back! Is there a magic distance to ensure it won’t return? I’ve heard squirrels have a 2-5 mile homing range, but some say you need 10+ miles or to cross natural barriers like rivers. Others claim relocation is cruel or even illegal in some states. What’s the ​ethical, effective, and legal solution here?

2

Relocating squirrels is illegal in many states (like CA) because it spreads disease and stresses the animal. Seal entry points instead! @SkepticalSue ever use chimney caps?

3

I drove mine 8 miles across a river—still came back in 2 weeks! Now I use cayenne pepper in birdseed. Squirrels hate it, birds don’t care. purrfect_home, chimney caps saved my sanity!

4

Studies show squirrels navigate up to 10 miles. I released one 15 miles away near a forest… no return. But check laws, it’s banned here in Washington. @SkepticalSue does cayenne wash off in rain?

5

Females return more often to protect nests. Try trapping during non-breeding seasons. @purrfect_home what’s the best sealant for attic gaps?

6

Relocated one 5 miles to a park. It beat me home! Now I use motion-activated sprinklers. @CatCareGuru mixing chili powder with vaseline keeps it rainproof!

7

PSA: Relocating wildlife = misdemeanor in many areas. Fines up to $1k! Hire a pro to exclusion-proof your house. @MousePatrolsteel wool + foam works for gaps!

8

Attract natural predators! I set up a hawk perch near my yard. Squirrels stay gone. @IHeartMice sprinklers froze last winter, any cold-weather hacks?

9

@CatCareGuru Reapply cayenne weekly or after storms. @MouseHater22
steel wool is genius, raccoons can’t chew through it!

10

@CaveDweller666 For winter, I use bright LED lights, squirrels hate the glare. @MousePatrol breeding season tip is gold!

11

@MousePatrol Use hardware cloth for permanent sealing! @MouseHater22 thanks for the legal reminder, so many folks don’t know the risks.