Bird feeders can be a great way to attract beautiful birds to your yard and enjoy watching them feed and fly around.
However, sometimes unwanted guests such as squirrels can also be attracted to the bird feeders, causing a nuisance and potentially scaring away the birds. If you are dealing with pesky squirrels at your bird feeders, worry not! We have 8 expert tips on how to keep squirrels out of bird feeders.
1. Use a squirrel-proof bird feeder
Invest in a bird feeder specifically designed to be squirrel-proof. These feeders often have mechanisms that close off the feeding ports when a squirrel’s weight is detected, preventing them from accessing the seeds.
This way, you can ensure that only the birds can access the food.
2. Place the bird feeder strategically
Position the bird feeder at least 10 feet away from any trees, buildings, or other structures that squirrels can use to jump onto it.
Mount the feeder on a smooth metal pole or a pole with a squirrel baffle to make it difficult for squirrels to climb up and access the seeds.
3. Provide squirrel-friendly food elsewhere
If squirrels are regular visitors to your yard, consider setting up a separate feeding station specifically for them. Fill it with squirrel-friendly food such as corn, nuts, and seeds to distract them from the bird feeder.
4. Use hot pepper
Sprinkle some hot pepper flakes or powder on the bird seeds. Birds are not affected by the spiciness, but squirrels find it unpleasant and will be deterred from eating the seeds.
Make sure to reapply the pepper regularly, especially after rain.
5. Install a squirrel dome
A squirrel dome is a clear plastic dome that can be placed above the bird feeder to prevent squirrels from reaching the seeds.
The dome should be large enough to cover the feeder and hang low enough to prevent squirrels from jumping over it.
6. Trim nearby trees and branches
Keep trees and branches trimmed back from the bird feeder to prevent squirrels from accessing it from above.
Squirrels are agile climbers and jumpers, so eliminating their launch points can help keep them away from the feeder.
7. Use a motion-activated sprinkler
Set up a motion-activated sprinkler near the bird feeder. When a squirrel approaches, the sprinkler will turn on and spray water, scaring the squirrel away. This can be an effective deterrent to keep squirrels at bay.
8. Secure the bird feeder with a bungee cord
Attach a bungee cord to the bird feeder and anchor it to a nearby fence or post. This will prevent squirrels from knocking over the feeder or stealing the seeds.
Make sure to adjust the tension of the cord so that birds can still access the feeder without difficulty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping squirrels out of bird feeders requires some creativity and effort, but it is definitely achievable.
By following these expert tips and implementing some preventive measures, you can enjoy watching the birds feed in peace without worrying about pesky squirrels causing a disturbance. Good luck and happy birdwatching!