At first, it may seem to be a very nice view to have squirrels and chipmunks running around in your backyard, tempted by the bird seeds in the bird feeder. However, you will notice that these flurry animals offer disadvantages, especially if your bird feeders become frequently empty and there are no more birds in sight. As such, it is now time to learn how to make your bird feeders squirrel proof.
Squirrels are capable of jumping from one point to another. They can claw their way up and down on tree branches. It is amazing how a determined squirrel can reach a food source easy and fast.
Sunflower seeds, nuts, cracked corns and suet that you place in your bird house feeder greatly attracts squirrels and birds. If squirrels reach the bird feeder regularly, then will often stay until they are well fed and this in turn can discourage birds from coming down. If this is the case, it is advisable that you make use of a bird feeder pole to perch up your bird house feeder.
Place a cone on top to make your bird feeders squirrel proof
A bird feeder pole allows the feeder to be placed at a much greater height which makes it more eye-catching for the birds. Make sure that you position the pole away from tree branches where squirrels might use them as jumping points. You can purchase a pole from your birding supplies store or you may want to buy a whole setup for easier installation.
Another tip to make your bird feeders squirrel proof is to put a metal or plastic cone on top of your bird feeder. Since metals or plastics have smooth surfaces, squirrels cannot hold onto them securely. The repeated attempts of squirrels to reach the feeder which continuously leads to unproductive and unsatisfactory results will guarantee to make your bird feeders squirrel proof.
In case that you do not have a pole yet to use for your bird feeder, there is another fool-proof tip to drive squirrels away. Mix dried or crushed cayenne pepper onto the bird seed and nuts. Squirrels like any other mammals can taste the spices while the birds will not and soon enough, squirrels will not be getting near to your feeders.
Another tip to make your bird feeders squirrel proof is to hang your feeders using a horizontal wire with spinners. Squirrels cannot climb in the wire which will lessen their chances of reaching the feeds. In case that the squirrel is able to get to the feeder, the spinners will roll and the squirrel will eventually fall down into the ground.
However, there are limitations to what you can do to make your bird feeders squirrel proof. First and foremost, please do not put poison on your seed as bait to wandering squirrels. This can have a tremendous effect on the wildlife and a heavy burden to your conscience.
If you are tempted to put grease on the pole or around the feeder as your way to make the surfaces more slippery, please refrain from doing so. Grease can coat the birds’ feather and the squirrels’ fur which can make them vulnerable to certain illnesses. In addition, grease coating is not found to be an effective way to dissuade squirrels to invade the bird feeder.
In case that you have followed every tip to make you bird feeders squirrel proof but still to no avail, hope is not yet lost. Create a station for the squirrels, chipmunks and raccoons where they can enjoy nuts and fruits. This sure-fire tip should be enough for you to have a more peaceful and relaxing bird feeding.
How to Make Bird Feeders Squirrel Proof is a post from: Bird Feeders Resource
