Few details are known about the situation that led to the adult female being caught in the trap; a caller simply told Wildlife Rescue Association of BC rehabbers the location. Upon their arrival, a volunteer found the squirrel – in the trap – in a gutter.
But the damage was clear: two broken incisors (largest teeth for a squirrel), significant swelling, and dehydration. She was considered to be in critical condition and sedated for immediate treatment upon her arrival.
Fortunately, the rehabbers at WRA are among the best – and the squirrel, whose incisors are already growing back, is expected to fully recover.
The trap, sadly, is one that is available at many hardware stores across Canada, with few directions or warnings. No trap – whether it’s a snare, leg-hold, Conibear, or simple, inexpensive snap trap – is capable of differentiating between targets. And every year The Fur-Bearers receives information on dozens of by-catch reports: small mammals like this squirrel, at-risk animals, non-target animals not meant to be trapped, and even domestic pets like cats and dogs.
You can put an end to this cruelty by using truly humane methods or professionals to remove wildlife from your home, talking to your friends, neighbours, and local stores about the dangers of traps, and staying in touch with The Fur-Bearers to get action updates on trapping issues.
Compassionate solutions for animals like this little squirrel all start in the same place: with you.
monthly donor(for as little as $5/month – the cost of a single latte) pleaseclick hereand help us save lives today.
