How To Keep Squirrels Out Of Bird Feeders: 5 Proven Methods
Squirrels aren’t evil little creatures that come to your garden to wreak havoc on purpose. However, they are quite the troublemakers. These little buggers love to scavenge your bird feeder for tasty seeds. Somehow feeders attract squirrels way more than they do birds! The more squirrels feast on your feeder, the less birds will be willing to come. So, if you are looking to attract more birds you will need to keep these furry animals at bay. On the bright side, you can easily defend your feeder with some simple humane methods. Today we will show you how to keep squirrels out of bird feeders for good.
Squirrels aren’t evil little creatures that come to your garden to wreak havoc on purpose
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How To Keep Squirrels Out Of Bird Feeders
What is supposed to be a feast for the feathery friends visiting your garden, quickly turns into a buffet for the local squirrels. If you are a bird enthusiast, this can be very annoying. These pesky little creatures not only eat all the seeds, but they also scare the birds away and damage the feeders. So, it’s time to learn how to protect your feeder and keep squirrels at bay.
These pesky little creatures will eat all the seeds
#Put the feeder higher
This is one of the simplest ways to keep out squirrels. Squirrels are great jumpers, but they still can’t fly. So, it’s best to keep your feeder within the 5-7-9 rule. Squirrels usually will not jump higher than five feet off the ground, they will not jump across more than 7 feet, and they will not jump down from more than 9 feet. That is why it is best to keep your feeder within such a safe space and your feeder will be safe.
This is one of the simplest ways to keep out squirrels
#Attach a squirrel baffle
A baffle is a wobbly piece of metal or plastic that blocks a squirrel’s access by making it impossible for them to grip the surface. You usually attach these above a hanging feeder or before a feeder on a pole. While you do have to buy these, they are quite affordable and easily available. You can order them online or at your local hardware store.
A baffle is a wobbly piece of metal
#Place the feeder out in the open
Squirrels tend to be quite skittish. We will use this to our advantage. Since they don’t like putting themselves in the way of possible danger, squirrels will avoid feeders that are out in the open. This leaves them vulnerable as possible predators may spot them more easily. They will think twice before heading over to your feeder for a snack.
Squirrels tend to be quite skittish
#Get a squirrel-proof feeder
Instead of trying to upgrade your current feeder, you can always get one that is already squirrel-proof. They make feeders specifically designed to keep these little buggers out of your seeds. Some are weight-activated and close the feeding ports when they feel the heaviness of a squirrel. Others are uncomfortable for squirrels to grip on. These are very effective and don’t require extra steps.
You can always get a feeder that is already squirrel-proof
#Use spice
Your spice rack can come in handy for deterring away squirrels. Sprinkling some cayenne pepper into the bird food mix is a great way to keep them away. Birds don’t really taste the heat, so they don’t mind it. However, squirrels will stay clear of anything that is hot. Just don’t go overboard.
Your spice rack can come in handy for deterring away squirrels
These are the best methods when it comes to how to keep squirrels out of bird feeders. We hope you found this article useful. Now that these pesky critters won’t continue eating the seeds and scaring off the birds, you can enjoy all the new feathery visitors that will come to your garden.
These are the best methods when it comes to how to keep squirrels out of bird feeders
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