Finding Great Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders
By : Trevor R. Price
There are hundreds of squirrel proof bird feeders, but do any of them actually work? Squirrels are intelligent, acrobatic, capable of leaping distances of almost 12 feet and intent on eating your lovingly placed bird seed - making them a challenging nemesis to keep out of your backyard bird feeder.
Squirrels don't simply eat the seed at a feeder, they also dissuade birds from perching there and can cause major damage to the feeder because of their weight and aggressive feeding. So, if you're tired of watching squirrels take over your backyard bird oasis, keep reading for an overview of some of the best squirrel proof bird feeders available today.
Squirrel Buster Plus
The Squirrel Buster Plus looks like a simple tubular feeder. However, its small, circular perch is actually weight-sensitive. So, when a squirrel jumps on, the platform will lower and close the feeding doors at the same time. Eventually, the squirrels get frustrated and leave. It's very effective, doesn't require batteries and is quite affordable at $49 retail.
The Suet Sandwich
If you love watching woodpeckers (and can stand the noise), the Suet Sandwich is for you. Basically, two thin slices of suet - favored by woodpeckers - are wedged between two chunks of synthetic bark. The Suet Sandwich sells for approximately $35 and allows the long-tongued woodpeckers access to the suet beef fat, but the squirrels are excluded.
Droll Yankees Squirrel-Proof Feeders
Droll Yankees sell a whole line of motorized and battery-operated squirrel-proof feeders that range in price from approximately $80 to about $120. Their basic model uses a battery-operated perch that will spin when it senses the extra weight of the squirrel. The idea is that the squirrel will tip or fly off. Though entertaining and fairly effective, the Droll Yankees' models need new batteries every two to three months.
Buy a Squirrel Feeder
If you can't beat them, feed them. To keep squirrels off your feeder, try a block of birdseed placed on the ground. These all-in-one feasters come in a hefty size and hold several pounds of seeds and nuts in one compressed block. The squirrels will nibble away and (hopefully) leave your bird feeder alone.
Make Your Own
Instructables, a popular how-to website, has step-by-step instructions, including pictures, on how to put together your very own squirrel proof bird feeders for less than $10. By relying on lightweight cable ties as perches, this ingenious design makes it impossible for squirrels to steal your bird seed.
