How to Keep Squirrels Out of the Bird Feeder?

Squirrels may seem like cute nut-loving critters, but they are the bane of bird lovers everywhere. They can easily raid a bird feeder, leaving no seeds for feathered friends. Hanging the bird feeders from narrow wire does little good as squirrels can easily climb down even the thinnest of wire. There are several methods for keeping squirrels out of bird feeders and not every one will work for every squirrel.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic bowl
• PVC pipe
• Feeder

How to Keep Squirrels Out of the Bird Feeder?

1. Choose a metal or plastic feeder instead of wood. Squirrels chew through and destroy wood feeders. Metal and plastic can withstand their assault.

2. Purchase or make a baffle for your feeder. Baffles are placed above hanging feeders and below pole feeders and work by making it difficult for the squirrel to get around. You can poke a hole in the center of a large plastic bowl and suspend it upside down above a hanging feeder for a homemade baffle.

3. Purchase a caged feeder. Caged feeders are surrounded in attractive netting that is large enough for birds to get through but not squirrels.

4. Encase the pole on pole feeders in PVC piping. Squirrels have trouble climbing PVC pipe. Make sure the feeder is not near a tree or other jumping off point because the squirrel can bypass the pole altogether.

5. Feed the squirrels. Squirrels are territorial. Set up a feeding area for the squirrels as far from your bird feeder as possible and on the ground. Cracked corn or peanuts are preferred by them over birdseed. A well fed squirrel will keep other squirrels from your yard and is more likely to leave your bird feeders alone.

Tips & Warnings

• Squirrel feeders are available that are attractive and will help lure the squirrel away from the bird feeders.

References

• Wild Bird Watching