Most birds enjoy snacking on shelled sunflower seeds, but squirrels and other mammals such as raccoons and bears can often ruin the party by showing up unexpectedly at their feeder.
One popular method is to suspend a caged bird feeder at least 5 feet above the ground; this helps deter squirrels from accessing your seed supply.
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Squirrel-Proof Feeders
Squirrel-proof feeders are typically constructed from materials designed to withstand the claws and teeth of these curious rodents, like wood. Plastic, metal and acrylic may also be popular materials. Some even feature UV stabilized coatings to help protect from discoloration caused by sunlight exposure over time.
Another effective strategy for keeping squirrels away from bird food is exposing them to less-appetizing snacks, such as nyjer seeds or white proso millet which they don’t enjoy eating; adding this type of grain blend as part of your regular sunflower seed blend could help deter them.
Perky-Pet’s bird feeder utilizes a weight-activated mechanism to close off its feeding ports when something other than songbirds is detected, effectively keeping squirrels and larger birds such as crows or pigeons from accessing seed. Furthermore, this feeder features a perch and sheltered seed chamber to further deter squirrels; chew- and rustproof design also provide greater security from these pesky rodents! Ideal for solo use or mounting on poles – comes ready to hang.
Squirrel-Proof Poles
Purchase one of these poles to help prevent squirrels from depleting your bird feeders. They come equipped with a built-in baffle that prevents climbing, as well as an auger so you can easily secure it into the ground and can hold multiple feeders at the same time.
Some reviewers have mentioned the pole rusts over time, however this can be avoided by periodically spraying with Rust-Oleum clear coat. Another potential issue with this pole is its hooks being 6 feet up; therefore requiring you to use a step ladder when hanging and refilling feeders.
This long-lasting pole comes equipped with an integral squirrel baffle that rocks and floats when an attempted climb takes place, making it more difficult for squirrels to grab hold and mount it. Ideal for larger yards with multiple feeders that require long-lasting support; with four hooks you can hang more than just one feeder on it!
Squirrel-Proof Feeder Covers
Squirrels can be relentless in their search for birdseed. To limit their access, place your feeders away from any “launch pads,” including houses, porches, wires and tree trunks as well as bushes or trellises that could provide access. You could also wrap wire fences with plastic pipe to discourage squirrels from climbing them.
Weight-activated perches on this bird feeder close the seed ports when heavy squirrels attempt to land, making it impossible for them to access its contents. It holds approximately two pounds of standard bird seed and can accommodate four birds simultaneously.
As with any feeder, bird feeders require periodic maintenance and cleaning; be sure to regularly remove old seed hulls from beneath it, replace soiled perches with new ones, and put out fresh food as required. If necessary, try placing some fragrant spices – like garlic, peppermint, cinnamon or lemongrass – inside the cage as deterrents against squirrels; they don’t like their scent and may leave your feeder alone as a result.
Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders
Birds can be drawn to feeders hung from poles, with several squirrel-proof bird feeders featuring cages or spring-loaded doors to keep squirrels at bay. One such option available on Amazon, called Roamwild PestOff Squirrel-Proof Feeder is one such feeder with an unconditional satisfaction guarantee.
Some squirrel-proof feeders use wire to deter squirrels from climbing on them. This method works best when suspended at least nine-10 feet off of the ground and wider diameter wire than what a squirrel could wrap its arms around is used for security.
One easy-to-use DIY squirrel deterrent is a metal Slinky spring you can fasten to the top of your feeder pole. This cheap method deters squirrels from climbing your feeder, and you could add extra protection such as tulle for extra coverage if necessary. Some say a small bar of Irish Spring soap hung nearby may also work; its fragrance should frighten them away and prevent them from raiding wild birdseed supplies.
