How to Keep Squirrels and Other Pests Away From Your Bird Feeders

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Feeder Guests

Ah, the joy of watching birds flit and feed in your backyard. But what happens when your carefully selected birdseed becomes a buffet for squirrels, raccoons, or even pesky chipmunks? It’s a common frustration for bird lovers, but thankfully, there are humane and effective ways to keep these critters at bay and ensure your feathered friends get their fill. Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash

Smart Strategies for Pest Prevention

• Feeder Placement: Position feeders away from jumping-off points like trees or fences. Squirrels are surprisingly agile!
• Baffles: These dome-shaped or cone-shaped devices can be installed above or below a feeder to block squirrels from reaching the seed.
• Choose a Squirrel-Proof Feeder: Many feeders are designed with weight-activated perches that close off access when a heavier animal, like a squirrel, lands on them. Others have cages around them that only allow smaller birds to enter. Consider a BirdReel smart feeder that can send you alerts if you want to monitor activity.
• Spicy Seed: Some birds don't mind capsaicin, the compound that makes peppers hot, but squirrels and other mammals do! Look for « no-melt » suet or seed mixes containing hot pepper.
• Keep the Area Clean: Spilled seed on the ground can attract unwanted visitors. Regularly clean up dropped seeds and hulls.

By implementing these tips, you can create a more peaceful dining experience for your backyard birds and enjoy watching them without the added drama of acrobatic squirrels. Happy birding!