Dealing With Squirrel Problems Humanely

We love them and we hate them. While most of us would agree they are cute little rodents who liven up our backyards, there is no denying they can be a nuisance. Along with the common complaint of wild squirrels stealing bird food, they are also known to chew on wires and move into attics. In an attempt to deal with squirrel problems with bird feeders, the squirrel proof bird feeder was created, with some being more humane than others. Luckily there are effective squirrel proof bird feeders available for purchase and you can disregard some of the more questionable options out there.The following methods of dealing with squirrels are not recommended.
This page will be updated as new information becomes available on the impact of the various methods on wild squirrels.

Capsaicin bird seed

You can find bird seed that has been treated with capsaicin, the ingredient found in hot peppers. Squirrels will find the seeds distasteful and it apparently has no physical effect on birds. Although it may work at deterring some squirrels, others if hungry enough will still eat it. At this time not enough information on the adverse long term effects is available on this product to recommend it. Also please consider that if the wild squirrel gets capsaicin on it’s paws and then rubs it’s eyes, the squirrel will suffer from eye irritation. This also applies to birds if they get capsaicin on their feathers or eyes. So please consider a different alternative. (Have you tried a squirrel baffle yet?)

Electrified poles or Feeders

Here the principle is simple; just zap the little guys off. This sounds a bit extreme considering the other options available to bird lovers.

Sticky products

A sticky solution is applied to the pole holding the bird feeder. The aim is to deter wild squirrels from climbing up poles. Not only may the solution be difficult to remove from their fur but it may also be harmful to birds.

Trapping Squirrels

With the availability of squirrel proof bird feeders on the market, there is no reason to choose less humane methods of control. Also be aware that in some communities if you are found trapping an animal you can get fined with a pricey ticket. Also this can be a dangerous activity as one bite from a wild squirrel can expose you to serious bacteria and disease.

Dart Guns or B-B Guns

No explanation should be needed here. Don’t injure and cause unnecessary pain to a defenceless animal.

In the end, every individual will need to make their own choices, taking into account their own particular situation. But let’s not forget that due to growing city development, and deforestation, we are forcing ourselves into environments that belonged to animals. Let’s try to be kind and co-exist as best we can. In the winter time when food is scarce for all animals, squirrels may need a little help. Try a corn spike to entice wild squirrels away from your bird feeder. They’ll normally go for whatever food is easiest to access. Also don’t give up on your squirrel proof bird feeder. It may just need better placement in your yard.

I hope this article on squirrel problems helps you tolerate squirrels better.