Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, if a grey squirrel is caught - for any reason - it is illegal to release it into the wild or allow it to escape into the wild. Any grey squirrel caught must therefore be humanely despatched.
There are two recognised humane dispatch methods; by cranial dispatch using no more than two blows to the head, or by shooting in the trap. The Wildlife Trusts will not permit drowning, gassing or killing by any other means; this constitutes an offence under the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996.
NB. When shooting in the trap it is best to use an airgun. Do not follow the animal with the gun. Instead either allow the animal to settle down and remain still before taking the shot, or focus the gun on a given point of the trap and wait for the animal to move into range.
Cranial dispatch is conducted as follows:
Place a Hessian sack tightly over the trap entrance taking care not to leave any gaps. Release the trap gate to allow the animal to move into the trap. At all times care should be taken not to handle the animal as there is a high risk of being scratched or bitten; thick leather work gloves will help avoid this.
Once the squirrel has entered the sack, twist the sack closed to secure it.
Ensure that the squirrel is facing into one of the corners and place your foot to the side of the squirrel to hold it in position.
Once the head is located, it is vital that the squirrel is killed quickly and humanely. A single accurate blow to the back of the head with an implement such as a fishing priest should be sufficient to kill the animal. Place the sack on hard flat ground, a stone or tree stump to ensure the blow is effective. A second blow should only be used after a few seconds if the animal is still moving vigorously. Repeated blows constitute an offence under the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996.
