Feeding birds-not squirrels…easier said than done.  Most folks who feed wild birds would agree, their gravity defying acrobatics can be infuriating.  A squirrel can eat their weight in seed in one week, they can jump up to six feet high and 8 feet across, and they can run 20 mph.  A pesky backyard enemy who can destroy the pleasures of wild bird feeding.

How can you protect existing bird feeders from squirrels?  Baffles and capsaicin are two effective accessories.

With hanging squirrel baffles, make sure the baffle is one-third larger in circumference than the feeder.  Be sure the bottom of the feeder is at least four and one half feet off the ground, and the feeder is at least eight feet away from trees, shepherds hooks, or any possible launching spots for squirrels.  If using a pole mounted, or 4×4 post mount squirrel baffle, make sure the bottom of this baffle is at least four and one half feet off the ground.  Make sure the post or pole is at least eight feet away from any sideways launching spot.  Also, be sure this feeder is at least ten feet away from taller launching spots, like trees or houses.  Capsaicin is effective in deterring squirrels, as they despise the hot sensation that comes from the peppers, but birds do not taste it.  Available in commercial mixes, you can easily make your own with cayenne pepper.  A few teaspoons mixed lightly with any bird seed …but be careful!  It’s painful to breathe the fumes, it burns your eyes, and if it gets on your skin, wash hands immediately.  Capsaicin has been scientifically proven safe for wild birds.

If your backyard landscaping will not accommodate this type of set up, you may wish to buy a new squirrel proof bird feeder that will win the war for you!  There are many models available that work well; Droll Yankee, Duncraft, and Heritage Farms are well known for their high quality squirrel proof products, and even guarantee them.  Hanging caged feeders are effective, but you may not really care for a metal or galvanized design in your garden.  The new Mandarin squirrel proof bird feeders are attractive in any landscape with their sleek design and large clear view baffle.  Made from 100% recycled plexiglass, they protect feeders and houses, and also have a lifetime warranty.  This model can hang or be pole mounted, and protects seed from rain, snow and squirrels beautifully!