As the squirrel epidemic continues to reach unheard of proportions, many of our consumers have taken to purchasing their own traps in the hopes of handling the problem without the assistance of a trained professional. Websites and army surplus stores offer a range of these do-it-yourself rodent recovery systems (Sidebar), claiming to target any type of squirrel, from flying to red, large to small.

Though these reasonably inexpensive traps seem like a good supplement to the services that we at Squirreljumper provide, they present a very real danger to both consumer and squirrel.

Although advertised as a safe way to trap and release the animal, almost 95% of captures result in the death of the rodent. The spring loaded doors have snapped the neck of many an unsuspecting grey squirrel and the wire mesh construction will collapse in the slightest breeze. The squirrel "bait" is in reality a highly toxic substance that stains the skin and, if internalized, can result in nausea and even death.

We at Squirreljumper.com are as committed to the safety of our clients, as we are to resolving their rodent problems. Please, do not be fooled by the promise of quick solutions to a very complex problem. Let us put to use the skills that we have spent the past five years cultivating and refining. Remember, a squirrel is a wild animal, and should only be dealt with by a licensed jumper.

Thank you from your friends at Squirreljumper.com.

Steve Berkintof

CEO and Founder of Squirreljumper.com