Having struggled to keep the squirrels off our birdfeeders, we decided to share some of methods we've used ourselves as well as techniques that we've heard about from others.
We hope these tips will help you keep the squirrels out of your birdfeeders. And, if you really like squirrels (we do!), a separate feeding station for the little critters will help you enjoy them more.
1. Buy a Squirrel-proof Birdfeeder
2. Buy or Make a Squirrel Baffle
Or you can make your own squirrel baffle. This resource describes how to make a baffle from a piece of stovepipe: Squirrel-proof a Pole Feeder. This baffle looks very similar to the popular, and reportedly effective, "Torpedo Baffle."
Photos of Squirrel Baffles
The fourth image shows a baffle "in action" - a squirrel is attempting to climb the pole but is stopped by the baffle.
3. Place Your Bird Feeders Away from Trees
You'll want to have the feeder close to some trees or shrubs, so the birds have protection, but not so close that the squirrels can jump onto the feeder.
Also, the birdfeeder should be at least five feet above the ground, so the squirrels can't jump directly up onto it.
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, then your feeder should be five feet above the expected snow level.
We have a lot of snow here, but I can't put the feeder that high or I won't be able to reach it. So I try to tramp down the snow around the feeder when it gets too high.
4. Put Oil or Grease on the Pole
You'll need to refresh the oil periodically, especially after it rains.
This technique also works for raccoons.
5. Feed the Birds Seeds That Squirrels Don't Like
Squirrels don't like thistle (niger) seeds or safflower seeds. So if you limit your feeding to these two seed types, that should solve your squirrel problem.This solution will, however, limit the types of birds that will come to your feeder. Try it and you might be surprised at how many different species you'll attract.
Cardinals, titmice, chickadees, nuthatches, and grosbeaks like safflower seeds. Finches and siskins are fond of niger seeds.
UPDATE: One of my neighbors said that he's got a red squirrel eating his niger (thistle) seeds. So your mileage may vary on this one.
6. Don't Use Mixed Bird Seed
Instead, use black oil sunflower seeds, a favorite of many types of birds. Other good choices are safflower or niger seed, neither of which squirrels show much interest in.
7. Add a Tray to Your Feeder
Inevitably, even with a tray, some seeds will fall on the ground. But having a tray keeps it to a minimum.
Bird Feeders with Trays
In the last photo, a young bird has found a new use for the tray on this birdfeeder.
8. Don't Use Hanging Birdfeeders
If you just love hanging feeders, then try adding a baffle and using the other ideas suggested here.
9. Sprinkle Cayenne Pepper Around Feeders
Some people even suggest mixing a small amount of cayenne pepper in with the birdseed. They say that the birds are not bothered by it at all, but the squirrels don't like it.
10. Give Squirrels a Separate Feeding Station
You can feed them on a simple platform or purchase a special squirrel feeder. Their favorite foods are nuts, especially raw unsalted peanuts. They also like sunflower seeds and corn.
Happy feeding!
Photo Credits
Tip #5: © Cathy Keifer - Dreamstime.com
Guestbook - Keeping Squirrels Off Birdfeeders
Please share your thoughts on this lens or on keeping squirrels off birdfeeders.
Thanks for stopping by!
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ElizabethJeanAllen
Thanks for the info. As an avid bird watcher, I'm dealing with the dang squirrels all the time. I finally gave up and gave them their own feeding station. Its less hassle that way. Posted March 17, 2008 |
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jsr54
I've been looking at the Droll Yankees Flipper. Even if it doesn't work the videos on the web site are entertaining enough. Posted March 08, 2008 |
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flicker
LaraineRose, I sure wish I had some answers for you, but I think nut trees are a challenge on a whole new level! I use hardware cloth (sort of a wire mesh) to keep squirrels out of things. But that certainly wouldn't be practical for a whole tree. Posted January 26, 2008 |
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LaraineRose
Good tips for a birdfeeder. Any tips for a nut tree? We have a lot of nut trees here - only one we want to keep for ourselves. We netted it last year but the squirrels chewed a hole in the netting (the little rascals.) Come see my fun lens if you have time. Posted January 25, 2008 |
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GypsyPirate
great job with this page. I feel inspired now to go get a bird feeder just to see if I can keep the squirrels away from it. Posted January 22, 2008 |
