Squirrels. They’re tenacious, ingenious creatures, especially when it comes to figuring out how to rob your birdfeeder of its seeds. At St. George Village, we have our share of these fluffy-tailed gymnasts, but we love feeding our feathered friends and want them to have their share of seeds, especially in the wintertime.
If your heart takes wing at the sight of birds in your yard, consider these seven suggestions for saving the seeds you leave them from squirrels:
1. Location: Mount birdfeeders on a smooth metal pole at least six feet high. Prune any branches within a 12-foot radius.
2. Baffles: Install baffles, at least 15 inches wide and sloped, between the top of the feeder and its hanger or between the ground and the feeder.
3. Spinners: String spinners on a horizontal line.
4. Seed: Squirrels are less attracted to nyger, millet, safflower, canary and canola seeds.
5. Clean: Remove any debris and spilled seed from around the feeder.
6. Traps: Live traps can harmlessly catch and relocate squirrels.
7. Squirrel-Proof Feeders: There are several kinds. Squirrel-resistant feeders have doors that close when triggered by the squirrel’s weight. Metal feeders help minimize the damage from hungry squirrels. Wire cages around a birdfeeder can keep squirrels out but may prevent large birds from accessing the feeder as well.
You can also get a humane and effective interactive birdfeeder, such as the Squirrel Boss Bird Feeder. This type of feeder has a remote control operated by you from inside your house. When you press it, the offending squirrel gets a harmless static shock that tingles but doesn’t hurt.
Or visit Walter Reeves, the Georgia Gardener, online. You’ll find his tips and a lot of helpful gardening, lawn and landscaping advice on his site, The Georgia Gardener.