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When Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders Quit
Around my yard there are enough squirrels for a football game. Although I do feed them, every single bird feeder and birdhouse is protected by a baffle. Whether hanging, or pole mounted, the baffles pretty much ensure these are squirrel proof bird feeders.
The feeder set up shown at left has run into a small problem this season. There is a butterfly bush behind it that has grown twice it’s size from last year. Now my little crafty squirrels have figured out how to shimmey on out to the end of the thicker branches and leap to the feeders.
It’s pretty funny watching them, but not so funny having to fill the feeders every single day. So in this case, the squirrel proof bird feeders have quit being squirrel-proof due to landscaping growth.
The best plan? Relocate this pole to a spot where squirrels can not launch from any landscaping!
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Make Yours A Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
Outwitting squirrels…furiously frustrating to say the least! The age old battle has been going on since the dawn of backyard bird feeding. All kinds of contraptions are available, some with motors, some with springs, some with parts that are bound to break in due time.
The good news is you don’t need any of that to make your existing feeder a squirrel proof bird feeder. With careful attention to placement and one quality squirrel baffle, the problem’s solved. For hanging bird feeders, just remember the horizontal and vertical launching points. These are objects or branches where squirrels could possibly jump from – gaining access to your feeder. Okay, here’s the kicker: the pesky little acrobats can jump eight feet across, and up to six feet high. Do some serious thinking before placing your hanging feeder.
For pole or post-mounted bird feeders, the squirrel baffle would obviously sit below the feeder. Make sure the bottom of the baffle is at least four and half feet from the ground. Again, remember the horizontal launching distance as well.
Attractive and effective squirrel baffles do exist for squirrel proofing your bird feeder, saving seed, money and headaches…happy birding!