Finding Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeders

Squirrel proof bird feeders have been around for years. Some designs are clearly more effective than others at squirrel proofing. Listed here are the common design models available and a brief description of their potential as squirrelproof bird feeders.

Tube Bird Feeders and Caged Bird Feeders

Although these feeders are not typically squirrel proof, you can limit it’s use by squirrels by placing it in a suitable location. Also consider buying one with metal guards around the holes or food openings. This will slow down the wild squirrels consumption of food and prevent them from eating through the plastic. There are also models with a wire cage covering that are effective at slowing down squirrels.

Tray Platform Bird Feeders

Although these are great at attracting different types of birds, they are a squirrel’s dream come true. To them these feeders are basically an open buffet tray. If you currently have one you might want to consider placing a wire mesh grid covering over the top which will prevent squirrels from reaching in with their paws.

Suet Bird Feeders

Consider buying a metal wire design that holds the suet inside. There is the potential that a wild squirrel will just chew through the wooden suet feeders. Suet is a favourite food for birds and a much needed nutritious source of fat for them in the winter time. Try to place the wire holder in a location not easily accessed by squirrels. Experimentation with different spots may be needed.

Window BirdFeeders

These are generally smaller feeders that suction to windows. They require frequent refilling and may be impractical for some people. Also unless placed in a suitable spot, they’re easy for wild squirrels to spill over. Window bird feeders are probably most suitable as apartment bird feeders for people without yards.

Weighted Hopper Feeders

These are typically made of wood or metal and have a roof covering. The squirrel proof models have a weight activated lid that shuts close whenever a squirrel or other heavy animal sits on the ledge. They also usually have a large storage area for bird seed, which makes it a popular feeder. Some models can be adjuster for whatever weight of bird you prefer to feed. The only drawback to this model is if a squirrel learns to reach down from overhead to grab seeds. Pole mounting away from a fence or tree would prevent this problem.

The Yankee Flipper squirrel proof bird feeder is another example of a battery operated bird feeder. It looks like a tube feeder with a round perch that is weight activated. When a wild squirrel lands on the round perch it spins like a merry-go-around. This is an effective design for a squirl proof bird feeders.

Squirrel Baffles

Not really a feeder but an attachment to the feeder these are an essential addition to most bird feeders. They are either disk or dome shaped, covering the top of the bird feeder or placed 5 feet from the ground on a supporting bird feeder pole. The idea here is to create an unstable surface that will tip the squirrel over. A bird feeder atop a pole with a baffle (and at least 10 feet away from a fence or tree) is probably the best tactic to squirrel proofing. Try to purchase a larger size of baffle. Baffling bird feeders on top also offers the additional protection to rain and snow.

For more information on squirrel proof birdfeeders, you may want to read the tips section.