Bird Feeders: Put a Stop to the Squirrel Problem

By Jessica Van Looven


Bird feeders are actually efficient in terms of attracting birds to your patio, garden or backyard. Nothing beats being able to relax while being surrounded by the sweet sounds of singing birds nearby. If listening isn't your cup of tea, being able to watch the birds interact with each other may just provide you with the entertainment and distraction that you sorely need. But while watching or listening to your feathery friends may indeed be enticing, there is one problem that many feeding station owners tend to share - squirrels.


The squirrel problem can become your worst nightmare, given that they would be able to make short work of your feeders. They are very agile creatures that can walk on wire, is able to leap great heights and are skillful in mounting any obstruction. Considering such features, you can probably already imagine the kind of damage that they can do to your newly purchased bird attracting equipment.

To this end, it is important to choose feeders that are either made of hard plastic or metal. This will prevent the squirrels from creating any significant damage to the equipment. There are special feeders that are fenced by a wire cage as a protection. This will prove efficient when keeping other animals away. When hanging your bird feeder, be sure to put them a few meters away from a trunk or fence post. Hang them at least 1 meter off the ground as well to deter squirrels getting onto the feeder from below.

Adding baffles is another great option to consider as they can prevent the squirrels from getting to the feeder. It looks like an umbrella shaped device that you can place above or below your feeder. Add a piece of piping over the post where the feeder is hung if you want. You can choose a device that has perches on them; it will collapse under anything other than the weight of a small bird. This is a good way to prevent squirrels, and larger birds from eating all of the food.


Squirrels adore consuming nuts; make an effort to supply seeds and other foods for your birds. If you're feeling sorry for them, you can supply or construct a feeding station on the ground specifically for the squirrels. This is a great idea to prevent them from destroying your feeders. Be creative and take into consideration how you can prevent other animals from destroying the equipment or keeping the birds away. As soon as you see the problem, work it out and move on a direction cautiously as possible.




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