Recent reports indicate an increase in the interest in and use of live squirrel traps/feeders with escape holes built into them (see example image). The aim being to trap invasive greys while allowing non-target, native reds the ability to escape prior to the trap being checked. However, there are serious concerns around the animal welfare legalities and reputational impacts of such escape holes.
The following two reports highlight the issues connected to escape holes. One user trialling live traps with escape holes returned them to the seller once a protected red squirrel became stuck and died in the hole. While a separate trap was found with a grey squirrel that got stuck and died while trying to use the escape hole. Both squirrel species are potentially at risk.
These examples of deaths from the use of escape holes are not isolated. They resulted in two animals suffering inhumane deaths that breach animal welfare regulations across the UK. These incidents also risk sabotaging communications efforts by numerous stakeholders to increase support for red squirrel conservation action.
Therefore, the UK Squirrel Accord (UKSA) does not currently recommend the use of any live traps/feeders that incorporate escape holes. It also emphasises the need for regular trap checking and/or live camera alerts to maintain the legal animal welfare standards required for all species.
UKSA understands some stakeholders hope escape holes could reduce potential red squirrel trapping stress and/or the need to physically check traps as often. However, the animal welfare and reputational risks are too high.
If you have any further evidence you would like to share or wish to discuss this issue, please email info@squirrelaccord.uk