Baffles are typically dome- or cone-shaped and can be purchased or homemade.
you might also place a smooth plastic or metal pipe around the pole to serve the same purpose.
Before adding a baffle, consider where your feeder is located in relation to squirrel access points.
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Choose squirrel-proof bird feeders.
A weight-sensitive feeder shuts if a squirrel or other critter jumps onto it.
You don’t have to worry about the birds being shut out of accessing birdseed.
Birds are much lighter than squirrels and dont trigger the shutting mechanism, says Mizejewski.
Hang the feeder on a pole.
A better option is tohang a bird feederfrom a pole.
If you choose this method, ensure the pole is installed well.
Hang bird feeders high.
If you want to outsmart a squirrel, hang the feeder out of reach.
What’s a good height to hang a feeder?
A feeder at least 6 feet from the ground is a great way to discourage access, says McGuinness.
I use a long hook to hang the feeders on my feeder stations in my garden, she says.
Add hot pepper to the birdseed.
Sprinkling cayenne pepper on the birdseed is another option to deter squirrels.
If youre worried about the squirrels or other critters, they wont be harmed.
This technique is worth trying, but it may not be 100 percent effective.
For example, McGuiness hasnt had success with this tactic.
I have not had luck using the birdseed mixed with cayenne pepper or chili flakes, she says.
Very determined squirrels may not be deterred.
Place bird feeders away from objects.
Use a seed tray.
Seed trays catch seeds that birds may sift and toss to the side, says McGuinness.
She adds that house sparrows do this.
Another benefit of seed trays is that they provide a place for birds to land.
