How to Stop Squirrels From Eating Bird Food

Squirrels are attracted to bird feeders

Squirrels will always find bird feeders. They are fond of sunflower seeds and will jump 8 feet to reach bird feeders containing food they desire. Squirrels can leap from the ground and hang from precarious positions to get to food. They do not, however, like thistle and safflower seeds that are major components of many bird feed mixes. Without some deterrents, squirrels can make a continual mess of bird feeders and consume large quantities of feed.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic squirrel baffle
• Metal pie pan

Instructions

1. Hang your bird feeder where it will be difficult for clever squirrels to reach the feed. Place on an overhanging branch with no ledges close to it; remember squirrels jump to get to bird feed.

2. Install a squirrel baffle on the chain above and/or below the feeder. This is shaped like a dome and will not allow the squirrels any foothold; they will slip off of it if they try to get on it to reach the bird feed.

3. Punch holes in a metal pie pan and attach to the bottom of your feeder. This will catch food that spills from the feeder and allow rain water to pass out of the pan through the holes. Less food will end up on the ground with this addition.

4. Feed the squirrels; they will not bother with your bird feed as frequently if satisfied with food. Squirrels especially like peanuts.

Tips & Warnings

• A sheet metal cone may also be used in the same manner as the plastic dome baffle.

• It is sometimes suggested to coat feeder poles with petroleum jelly; however this is not advisable as it may get onto bird wings and make it difficult for them to fly.

References

• Birding: How To Keep Squirrels Away from Your Birdseed
• Bird Feeders Direct: Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders
• The Daily Puppy: Homemade Squirrel Control