How
can I keep squirrels from raiding by seed
feeders?
Squirrels have created their own mini-industry of
squirrel-proof feeders. There are a couple of
things to consider in dealing with squirrels and
several different options available.
First, squirrels
can jump up to 5
feet high and 8 feet
across! If you
have the room try locating your feeders outside the
range of their prodigious leaps. If your feeders
are pole mounted you may need to use a baffle on
the pole. You can manufacture your own from chicken
wire or purchase one of several
commercial designs.
A baffle can be used below pole-mounted
feeders.
There are several
different squirrel-proof feeder designs. One design
uses a wire cage around the feeder. The size of the
screen allows smaller species to access the feeder
while keeping the squirrels at bay. Various
spring-weighted designs close the feeder port if
heavy birds, such as grackles, or squirrels attempt
to feed.
Many of those that
feed birds also enjoy the antics of squirrels and
will set up a separate feeding station, usually
corn, to draw the attention of the squirrels away
from their bird feeders.
