Shooting of grey squirrels can be a very effective method of control, especially in early spring when young shoots are showing in trees. ... If in doubt, don't shoot. A rimfire rifle would be more suitable for shooting squirrels on the ground around the base of a tree where a safe backstop is provided.

Why are grey squirrels culled?

While some ministers are blaming grey squirrels for damaging trees, any harm caused by these animals is limited and localised. ... Another common excuse for culling grey squirrels is that they're a threat to red squirrels, but this is also unjustifiable both scientifically and ethically.

Do you have to kill a grey squirrel?

Any squirrel you caught alive would have to be killed, as per the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Spring trap approval order). Traps should never be used without adequate training. Any squirrel that you kill would have to be done humanely and this can be very distressing.