How far away to release Grey Squirrels?

My friend is having problems with gray squirrels (in north New Jersey)


He is catching them in those ';Havahart'; traps ( no danger to the animals btw) How far away should the squirells be released to make sure they won't come back? What is the home range of a typical gray squirell anyway?





thanks for your helpHow far away to release Grey Squirrels?
This time of year there will likely be young in the nests. If he traps and removes a lactating female, her young will starve or fall victim to the males of the area. The weaker squirrels, male and female, forced into another area, will likely be killed or starved.


A mile is sufficient to move one. Removal is stressful. They have no shelter. Imagine being abducted suddenly, by force, without any resources, no way to communicate for help and dropped into a completely foreign location at the worst possible time. Sound humane to you?





Since you don't give any details, I cannot imagine what sort of 'problems' your friend is having. It sounds as though he just doesn't like squirrels and wants them gone.





If he must remove squirrels, look around for rehabbers and ask if they could help to relocate the trapped ones. Most of the ones I know are more than willing to help ease the trauma of relocation. It's a good idea to do this BEFORE trapping any.How far away to release Grey Squirrels?
Thanks for the information (everyone)- it was very helpful. As far as problems with the squirrels- they are simply nesting under the roof and seem to be making new nests and holes all the time .

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Be aware that catch and release is unlawful in many areas. You are simply transferring the problem to another person and risk transferring disease. Squirrels are also territorial and may risk starvation or harassment in their new ';home away from home.';





But at least two miles; more is better.
They will easily find their way back if it is within a couple of miles. I would say at least 5-10 miles away. We took one 10 miles away and have not seen it. It use to hide under our BBQ grill cover and jump out at us when we came outside. It had to go, but at least we were humane about it.