"Everything's Perfect... Except for the Squirrels"

If I got a nickel every time I heard that! Everything is going good with the birds until the squirrels come along. No matter how hard we try, squirrels seem to outdo us again and again. It all boils down to one question. "Can we stop them?" The answer is: "Absolutely!" Though it takes some work, it's good to be satisfied by the end results. Below are some ideas that can help you get rid of squirrels.

Squirrel-Proof Feeders

Many experienced birders probably have one of these. But if you don't have one, it would be a great idea to get one. Though they don't come cheap, money is saved by not refilling the feeder over and over again after a squirrel raids it. It's lots of fun to watch the ways how squirrels will try to get to your feeders.

WARNING: The feeder will not work if it is too low off the ground and too close to a branch. Otherwise squirrels can easily jump the distance since most squirrel-proof feeders are weight-activated.

Get what they hate

Another way to get rid of squirrels is to feed food that the birds will like... but not the squirrels. Some examples:

- Nyger Seed

- Millet

- Safflower

- Canary Seed

- Canola Seed

The only problem is, is that famished squirrels will eat almost anything that will provide nourishment.

Make it Hot!

Buy Hot Pepper products at the store or stir it into your home-made feed. The birds won't mind, the squirrels definitely will!

WARNING: Do not use powder hot pepper  because if the wind blows it into the birds eyes, it can severely disturb the bird.

Squirrel Bafflers

You can buy squirrel bafflers at any bird store. Or for a more cheaper one, poke a hole in a 2 L bottle. Then attach it to the pole of your bird feeder. It is impossible for squirrels to climb up, but make sure your feeder is high enough so that the squirrels can't jump it!

Cages

Make or buy a cage that has opening big enough for birds to get through but not squirrels. Make sure the feed it far enough from the cage so that squirrels can't reach in.