How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Bird Feeder?

Keeping squirrels out of your bird feeder can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Not only does it ensure that your feathered friends get their fair share of food, but it also saves you from the frustration of dealing with destroyed feeders and wasted bird seed. Let's dive into some effective strategies to keep those pesky squirrels at bay and understand how a pest exterminator can assist you in this battle.

Why Squirrels Love Bird Feeders?

Squirrels are naturally attracted to bird feeders for a couple of reasons. First, they're opportunistic feeders and will take advantage of any easy food source. Bird feeders, with their readily available and high-nutritional food, are a prime target.

Problems Caused by Squirrels in Bird Feeders

When squirrels invade your bird feeder, they can cause several problems:

• Destruction of Bird Feeders: Squirrels are strong and persistent, often chewing through feeders to get to the seed.
• Scaring Away Birds: Birds are likely to avoid feeders that are frequented by aggressive squirrels.
• Financial Loss: Constantly replacing damaged feeders and lost bird seed can get expensive.

Common Methods to Deter Squirrels

There are various methods you can employ to keep squirrels away from your bird feeders, ranging from simple physical barriers to more advanced deterrent techniques.

Physical Barriers

• Squirrel Baffles: These are dome-shaped devices that can be attached above or below the feeder to prevent squirrels from reaching the seed.
• Caged Bird Feeders: Feeders enclosed in a cage allow small birds to enter but keep squirrels out.
• Placement of Bird Feeders: Positioning feeders at least 10 feet away from trees or structures can make it harder for squirrels to jump onto them.

Food Selection

• Types of Bird Seed Squirrels Dislike: Safflower seeds are less appealing to squirrels but still enjoyed by many birds.
• Using Capsaicin-Treated Bird Seed: Capsaicin, the component that makes chili peppers hot, can be mixed with bird seed. Birds are unaffected by the spice, but squirrels find it unpalatable.
• Alternative Food Sources for Squirrels: Providing squirrels with their own food source, like corn or nuts, away from the bird feeders can help reduce their interference.

Location Strategies

• Optimal Placement of Bird Feeders: Hang feeders on thin, slippery poles or wires that squirrels cannot climb.
• Using Distance and Height to Deter Squirrels: Place feeders high enough and far enough from any jumping-off points to prevent squirrels from reaching them.
• Creating Squirrel-Friendly Zones: Set up a feeding station for squirrels at a distance from your bird feeders to draw them away.

Advanced Deterrent Techniques

• Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These devices spray water when they detect movement, scaring off squirrels.
• Ultrasonic Repellents: Emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for squirrels but inaudible to humans and birds.
• Spinning Bird Feeders: These feeders spin when a squirrel tries to climb on, flinging them off.

DIY Solutions

• Homemade Squirrel Baffles: Use household items like plastic bottles or PVC pipes to create your own baffles.
• DIY Spicy Bird Seed Mixes: Mix bird seed with cayenne pepper or chili powder to deter squirrels.
• Creative Placement Ideas: Experiment with different feeder placements and setups to find what works best in your yard.

Role of Pest Exterminators

Pest exterminators can provide professional assistance in managing a squirrel problem. They offer services such as:

• Assessment of Squirrel Problem: Inspecting your property to identify squirrel entry points and habits.
• Professional Deterrent Installations: Setting up effective barriers and deterrents.
• Long-Term Maintenance and Monitoring: Regular check-ups to ensure that squirrels remain at bay.

Benefits of Hiring a Pest Exterminator

• Expertise and Experience: Professional exterminators have the knowledge and tools to effectively manage and prevent squirrel infestations.
• Customized Solutions: They can tailor their approach based on the specific needs and layout of your property.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that a professional is handling the problem allows you to enjoy your bird watching without constant worry.

Choosing the Right Pest Exterminator

When selecting a pest exterminator, consider the following:

• What to Look for in a Professional: Certifications, experience, and customer reviews.
• Questions to Ask Potential Exterminators: Inquire about their methods, success rates, and warranties.
• Reading Reviews and Getting Recommendations: Look for testimonials and ask friends or neighbors for referrals.

Cost Considerations

• Typical Costs for Pest Control Services: The price can vary based on the extent of the problem and the services provided.
• Weighing Cost vs. Benefits: Consider the long-term savings of protecting your bird feeders and reducing squirrel damage.
• Budget-Friendly Alternatives: Some pest control companies offer affordable packages or DIY advice.

Maintaining a Squirrel-Free Bird Feeder

• Regular Maintenance Tips: Check and repair feeders and barriers regularly.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Modify your strategies with the changing seasons to address new challenges.
• Monitoring for New Squirrel Activity: Stay vigilant for signs of squirrel activity and address them promptly.

Conclusion

In summary, keeping squirrels out of your bird feeder involves a combination of strategies, from physical barriers and food selection to advanced deterrents and professional assistance. By taking a proactive approach, you can ensure that your bird feeders remain a safe and inviting spot for your avian friends, while also enjoying the peace of mind that comes from knowing your efforts are effective.