Keeping Squirrels Off Bird Feeders

Nothing can empty a bird feeder faster than a hungry squirrel. If you're hoping to feed your feathered friends and would prefer to keep the squirrels away, the task can be more than a little frustrating. Squirrels can climb, leap and wriggle their way into nearly any feeder you put out. Even many so-called squirrel-proof options can be broken into if the squirrel is motivated enough. A large part of squirrel prevention is trial and error.

Place your feeder at least eight feet away from any plant or structure from which a squirrel could jump, such as tree trunks, limbs, shrubs or buildings.

Suspend the feeder from a horizontal length of wire, strung between two structures or trees. String the wire so that the feeder is at least eight feet off the ground. Don't place your feeder atop a pole.

Use baffles to make it difficult for a squirrel to access your feeder. Baffles are available in a variety of styles. You can create your own variation by puncturing a hole in the bottom of plastic bottles, then threading the wire through several of them lengthwise. The bottles should surround your feeder (two to three per side) and rotate if a squirrel attempts to walk across the wire, knocking it to the ground.

Use a feed that squirrels don't enjoy. The Humane Society of the United States recommends safflower seed, nyjer thistle or a mix containing a large amount of white proso millet seed.

Set up a squirrel-friendly feeding area in your yard away from your bird feeders. Use a squirrel feeder and keep it stocked with corn and other treats. Since the feed here will be easily accessible, the squirrels may avoid your bird feeders altogether.