Many people wonder how to keep squirrels away from bird feeders but wait!

Why would you be interested in driving squirrels away from your garden? Aren’t squirrels cute small animals?

Birdwatching can be a delightful hobby, bringing a variety of beautiful birds right into your backyard.

However, if you’re a bird enthusiast, you’ve likely encountered the problem of squirrels raiding your bird feeders.

These agile and determined critters can consume birdseed at an alarming rate, leaving little for your feathered friends.

Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to keep squirrels at bay.

In this comprehensive guide, I explore a range of methods on how to keep squirrels away from bird feeders, ensuring that the birds are the primary beneficiaries of your generosity.

Related: 10 Smells Squirrels Hate

Understanding the Problem: Why Squirrels Love Bird Feeders

Squirrels are naturally attracted to bird feeders because they provide an easy and abundant food source. Birdseed blends, especially those containing sunflower seeds, nuts, and corn, are particularly appealing to squirrels.

Additionally, bird feeders are often placed in accessible locations, making them an inviting target. Understanding why squirrels are drawn to your feeders is the first step in devising effective deterrents.

1. Choose the Right Bird Feeder

The type of bird feeder you use can make a significant difference in deterring squirrels. Here are some options to consider:

• Weight-Activated Feeders: These feeders have perches that close off access to the food ports when a heavier animal, like a squirrel, lands on them. Birds, being much lighter, can still feed comfortably.
• Caged Feeders: A cage surrounds the bird feeder, allowing small birds to enter while keeping larger animals, including squirrels, out.
• Squirrel-Proof Feeders: These feeders are designed specifically to prevent squirrels from accessing the food. They often have mechanisms that close the feeding ports when triggered by the weight of a squirrel.

2. Location, Location, Location

Where you place your bird feeders can either encourage or discourage squirrels. Here are some placement tips:

• Distance from Jump-Off Points: Squirrels are excellent jumpers, capable of leaping up to 10 feet horizontally and 5 feet vertically. Position your feeders at least 10 feet away from any potential launch points, such as trees, fences, or buildings.
• Height: Place feeders on poles or hang them at least 5 feet off the ground. Adding a baffle (a conical or dome-shaped barrier) to the pole can prevent squirrels from climbing up.
• Slippery Surfaces: Consider greasing the feeder pole with petroleum jelly or a similar substance to make it slippery. However, be cautious with this method, as it can be harmful if it gets on a bird’s feathers.

3. Use Squirrel Baffles

Squirrel baffles are one of the most effective tools for keeping squirrels away from bird feeders. These devices come in various shapes and sizes and are designed to be mounted above or below the feeder to prevent squirrels from reaching the food. Here are some popular types:

• Cone-Shaped Baffles: These are placed below the feeder, making it difficult for squirrels to climb past them.
• Dome Baffles: Positioned above the feeder, dome baffles prevent squirrels from dropping down onto the feeder.
• Tube Baffles: These cylindrical barriers can be placed on the pole or hanging wire, preventing squirrels from accessing the feeder from above or below.

4. Use Squirrel-Repellent Bird Seed

Another way to deter squirrels is by using unappealing or even repellent to them.

Many stores offer specially formulated birdseed that contains hot pepper or capsaicin. Birds are unaffected by the spice, but squirrels find it unpalatable.

Alternatively, you can sprinkle cayenne pepper on your regular birdseed, but be sure to wear gloves and avoid touching your face.

5. Create a Squirrel Feeding Station

Sometimes, the best way to keep squirrels away from your bird feeders is to give them their own food source.

Set up a squirrel feeding station in a different part of your yard, stocked with food items they love, such as corn, nuts, and sunflower seeds. This can help divert their attention away from your bird feeders.

6. Physical Barriers and DIY Solutions

If you’re handy, there are several DIY methods you can try to keep squirrels at bay:

• PVC Pipe Sliders: If your bird feeder is hung from a wire, threading a length of PVC pipe along the wire can create a slippery barrier that squirrels can’t navigate.
• Spinner Devices: Attach a spinning mechanism to the feeder pole. When a squirrel tries to climb it, the device spins, throwing the squirrel off balance.
• Netting and Fencing: For ground feeders, consider placing a fine mesh net or chicken wire around the feeder area. Ensure that the holes are small enough to keep squirrels out while allowing birds to pass through.

7. Motion-Activated Deterrents

Motion-activated deterrents can be an effective way to scare squirrels away from your bird feeders. These devices, such as sprinklers or ultrasonic repellents, activate when they detect motion, startling the squirrels and deterring them from returning.

A must-read: Solar-Powered Ultrasonic Animal Repellent

8. Maintain Cleanliness and Remove Attractants

Finally, maintaining cleanliness around your bird feeders can help reduce squirrel attraction. Regularly clean up spilled birdseed from the ground, as this can attract squirrels and other pests.

Additionally, avoid leaving out other food sources, such as pet food or unsecured garbage, which can draw squirrels into your yard.

Conclusion

Keeping squirrels away from bird feeders can be a challenging task, but with a combination of the right feeder, strategic placement, physical barriers, and squirrel deterrents, you can successfully protect your birdseed from these persistent critters.

Remember that no single solution will work for every situation, so it may take some trial and error to find the most effective method for your specific setup.

By taking these steps, you can create a welcoming environment for birds while keeping the squirrels at bay. Happy birdwatching!