Squirrels are infamous for striking bird feeders, eating up birdseed, and leaving a mess behind. I immediately discovered that their readiness and jumping skills made considerable foes when I previously set up bird feeders on my lawn. Yet, through some experimentation, I found a set of strategies that genuinely worked to keep my bird feeders squirrel-free. Here’s how I did it.

Using a Baffle: A Game-Changer

Installing a baffle on my bird feeder was among my initial attempts. An apparatus that is cone-shaped and typically composed of metal, a baffle can be positioned above or below the feeder. I discovered that squirrels were able to slide off the baffle because of its uneven, smooth surface, which made it nearly impossible for them to grab onto it. This was a straightforward but useful tool that had an almost instantaneous impact.

Switching to Safflower Seeds

Another compelling method was switching to safflower seeds. At the same time, birds seemed to love them, but squirrels weren’t as enthusiastic. This simple change significantly reduced squirrel activity around my feeders. It was clear they didn’t find safflower seeds as appealing as the typical birdseed mix.

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Making a Cinnamon Spray

I also experimented with making a homemade spray using cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and peppermint mixed with water. I regularly sprayed this solution around the feeder, and it acted as a natural deterrent. The key was to reapply the spray after it rained, but it worked well to keep squirrels at a distance.

Keeping the Feeding Area Clean

I saw that squirrels were attracted to the area by the view of seeds distributed on the ground. By frequently cleaning up the feeding region, I lessened the chance of squirrels discovering the bird seed. This simple preventive measure proved to be shockingly successful.

Elevating the Feeder

Positioning the bird feeder higher up and away from any designs was another method I used. I placed my feeder at least five feet high and seven feet away from any trees or designs. While squirrels are excellent jumpers, these distances normally exceed their capacities, decreasing their access to the feeder.

Providing an Alternative Food Source

I chose to set up a different taking care station for the squirrels, loaded up with peanuts and dried corn. This scheme worked wonders because it diverted them from my bird feeder. By providing them with their food supply, I saw they left my bird feeders on a more regular basis.

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Investing in a Squirrel-Proof Feeder

To further protect my birdseed, I invested in a squirrel-proof feeder. These feeders have devices that close access ports when set off by a squirrel’s weight. This venture paid off, saving me a great deal of time and exertion in keeping the squirrels under control.

Creating an Obstacle Course

I also got creative and set up an obstacle course using two poles spaced about seven feet apart. I suspended the bird feeder on a wire between the poles and added empty soda bottles on either side. The bottles spun and wobbled, making it difficult for squirrels to reach the feeder.

Installing a Slinky on the Feeder Pole

One of the more fun arrangements I attempted was attaching a slinky to the feeder pole. When a squirrel tried to climb the pole, the slinky extended and contracted, causing the squirrel to lose equilibrium and fall. It was a cheap and entertaining method of stopping them.

Using Strong-Scented Soap

Draping a bar of strong-scented soap, like mint, near the bird feeder was another strategy I utilized. The solid fragrance was horrendous to squirrels, and it helped avoid them at all costs.

Applying Animal Urine

Lastly, I tried spraying hunter urine, like coyote urine, around the feeder area. The scent made squirrels careful, empowering them to keep away from the area. I needed to reapply it week by week, and after it was down-poured, it functioned as an effective deterrent.

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Choosing Copper or PVC for Feeder Poles

Exchanging the feeder pole to a smooth surface, like copper or PVC, also helped. Squirrels found it hard to climb these materials, which are soft and keep them from acquiring traction.

FAQ: Keeping Squirrels Out of Bird Feeders

What are some effective methods to keep squirrels out of bird feeders?

Using a baffle, changing to safflower seeds, and setting up a squirrel-confirmation feeder were the best systems I found. Giving an elective food source additionally helped get squirrels far from my bird feeders.

How high should bird feeders be placed to deter squirrels?

I found that draping my feeder at least five to six feet off the ground and placing it about seven feet away from any trees or constructions helped to deter squirrels effectively.

What types of squirrel-proof feeders did you try?

I used a weight-activated feeder that closes the feeding ports when it detects a squirrel’s weight. This type of squirrel was very effective in keeping squirrels from accessing the bird seed.

Did using spicy seeds work?

Yes, mixing birdseed with hot pepper powder or using pre-treated spicy seeds did work to deter squirrels. The spare isn’t affected by birds, but squirrels found it unpleasant.

How often did you check and maintain your feeders?

I frequently checked and kept up my bird feeders and limits to ensure everything was working correctly. This included locking baffles, making sure the feeders were in good condition, and reapplying deterrent sprays after rain.

What are baffles, and how do they work?

Baffles are procedures installed above or below bird feeders to stop squirrels from getting the feeders. They come in dome-shaped or hollow structures and should be wide enough (at least 15-18 inches in diameter) to block squirrels. Baffles make a physical barrier that squirrels cannot sidestep.

How can I create a physical barrier to deter squirrels?

Making a hindrance course using smooth PVC pipes, spinning bottles, or slinky toys around feeder poles can make climbing hard for squirrels. Putting on a non-poisonous, oily substance such as petroleum jelly or cooking oil on feeder poles can also stop squirrels from climbing them.

Can greasing poles help keep squirrels away?

Yes, spread over a non-poisonous, slippery substance like petroleum jelly or cooking oil to feeder poles can stop squirrels from climbing them. This technique requires regular reapplication, particularly after rain, to stay successful.