Keep Squirrels Away From Bird Feeders With This Simple Solution

Watching colorful birds flit around your bird feeder provides a never-ending source of entertainment. Every day, you welcome multiple types of songbirds along with boisterous woodpeckers who seem to dominate every feeder they visit. There's plenty of food for everyone, and you're glad you can keep your feathered friends happy.

However, you're considerably less amused by the crafty squirrels who constantly try to crash the party. If they manage to climb or jump onto the bird feeder, they gorge themselves silly. Even worse, squirrels can damage the feeder with their gymnastics and razor-sharp little teeth. And if you move the bird feeder to a less accessible spot, the squirrels will likely find a nearby tree that serves as a launch pad. Instead, consider a dedicated squirrel feeder to take the rodents' attention away from the bird feeder.

A squirrel feeder may work as a complement to other methods of keeping squirrels off a bird feeder, such as this ingenious DIY bird feeder that welcomes compact birds while excluding bulkier squirrels, or a seed-catching tray below a weight-sensitive bird feeder, which allows lightweight birds to access the food while keeping heavier squirrels away. In any case, make sure you observe the squirrels' behavior before choosing a feeder for the little rascals.

Choosing the right squirrel feeder is your first task. First, determine how many squirrels visit you daily, and size the feeder accordingly. More furry rodent visitors equals a bigger squirrel feeder. Next, decide on the feeder material. Although you can place a durable metal feeder in any outdoor location, a natural cedar squirrel feeder is better placed in a shady spot.

Several types of squirrel feeders provide the hungry rodents with easy food access. Squirrels go crazy for a simple corn cob feeder on a fence post or tree. Alternatively, a snack-filled basket attached to a sturdy tree might attract the little gluttons. A hanging or post-mounted platform feeder also offers a cornucopia of squirrel snacks. Finally, a small squirrel picnic table (yes, really!) provides multiple serving surfaces and a "seat" for furry diners.

Squirrels' acorn-gathering skills have become the stuff of legend. The little rodents have also developed an affinity for varied nuts. Squirrels find almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts especially appealing. And surprisingly, squirrels frequently chow down on cut-up apples, bean sprouts, carrots, celery, and green beans. Finally, don't forget that squirrels need water, too. They'll happily slurp it from a ground or elevated watering station. Keeping the receptacles clean will reduce algae and other hazards.

Managing your squirrel feeder is a multi-part undertaking. First, give your squirrels a VIP feeding spot — preferably some distance from the bird feeder. Next, ensure that your squirrel diners have a steady supply of healthy snacks — especially during the winter months. That said, be aware that squirrels don't appear to have a food "off switch." They'll gladly bulldoze their way through every bit of food you provide. Equipped with that knowledge, avoid overfeeding the squirrels so they don't rely too heavily on the feeder for their nutrition.

Just like you wouldn't dine with dirty serving ware, squirrels deserve to eat their food from a clean feeder. Regularly throw out unconsumed food that could develop mold and bacteria, potentially making the squirrels sick. Next, thoroughly clean the squirrel feeder with water and mild soap. Wear gloves and eye protection, as squirrel feces may have contaminated some feeder surfaces. Once your squirrel feeder is squeaky clean and filled with tasty snacks, you'll hopefully have found the solution for keeping squirrels out of your bird feeder.