How to Prevent Squirrels from Eating Bird Seed

Introduction

For many bird watchers, one of the most frustrating problems is when squirrels get into their bird feeders and eat all the seed. This can be an expensive problem as well, since it requires buying more bird seed on a regular basis. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent squirrels from eating your bird seed.

Use a Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder

One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels away from your bird feeder is to use a squirrel-proof bird feeder. These feeders are designed with various mechanisms that make it difficult for squirrels to access the seed. Some feeders have weight-activated perches that only open when a bird lands on them, while others have spinning mechanisms that close off the seed ports when a squirrel tries to climb onto the feeder.

There are many different types of squirrel-proof bird feeders available on the market, so it’s important to do your research and choose one that is best suited for your needs. It’s also important to make sure that the feeder is properly installed, as this will help ensure that it is effective at keeping squirrels away.

Place the Feeder Away from Trees and Other Structures

Another way to help prevent squirrels from accessing your bird feeder is to place it away from trees and other structures. Squirrels are excellent climbers, so if the feeder is placed too close to a tree or building, they will be able to easily climb up and get to the seed. It’s best to place the feeder at least 10 feet away from any structures, as this will make it much more difficult for squirrels to reach it.

It’s also important to make sure that the feeder is placed in an area that is not easily accessible to other animals. For instance, if the feeder is placed next to a fence, cats may be able to climb up and get to the seed. Placing the feeder in an open area away from any structures will help ensure that it is safe from other animals as well.

Hang the Feeder on a Pole with a Baffle

Another effective way to keep squirrels away from your bird feeder is to hang it on a pole with a baffle. A baffle is a dome-shaped device that is attached to the pole and prevents squirrels from climbing up to the feeder. The baffle should be placed at least 4 feet above the ground, as this will make it difficult for squirrels to jump onto the pole.

When installing the pole and baffle, it’s important to make sure that the pole is securely anchored into the ground and that the baffle is securely attached to the pole. If the pole and baffle are not properly installed, squirrels may be able to bypass them and get to the bird seed.

Use Hot Pepper-Based Bird Seed

Another way to deter squirrels from eating your bird seed is to use hot pepper-based bird seed. Hot pepper-based bird seed has been specially formulated to contain capsaicin, which is a natural ingredient that causes a burning sensation in the mouth and throat when ingested. This makes it unpleasant for squirrels to eat and deters them from coming back for more.

Hot pepper-based bird seed is widely available at most pet stores and online retailers. It’s important to make sure that the bird seed you buy is specifically labeled as “hot pepper-based”, as some bird seed blends may contain small amounts of hot pepper but not enough to deter squirrels.

Feed Birds in the Morning

Finally, another way to help prevent squirrels from getting to your bird seed is to feed birds in the morning. Squirrels are most active in the evening and early morning, so by feeding birds in the late morning or early afternoon, you can help ensure that the seed will still be there when the birds come to eat.

It’s important to make sure that the birds are fed at least two hours before sunset, as this will give them plenty of time to eat before the squirrels become active again. It’s also important to make sure that the feeder is refilled regularly, as this will help ensure that the birds always have access to fresh seed.

Conclusion

Keeping squirrels away from your bird feeder can be a challenge, but it is possible with the right steps. Using a squirrel-proof bird feeder, placing the feeder away from trees and other structures, hanging the feeder on a pole with a baffle, using hot pepper-based bird seed, and feeding birds in the morning are all effective ways to prevent squirrels from eating your bird seed.

If you follow these steps, you can rest assured that your bird seed will be safe from pesky squirrels. So don’t wait any longer – take action today and protect your bird seed!