Suggestions to Uncover Great Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders

Squirrels don't simply eat the seed at a feeder, they also dissuade birds from perching there and can cause major damage to the feeder because of their weight and aggressive feeding.

There are hundreds of squirrel proof bird feeders, but do any of them actually work? Squirrels are intelligent, acrobatic, capable of leaping distances of almost 12 feet and intent on eating your lovingly placed bird seed - making them a challenging nemesis to keep out of your backyard bird feeder.

Because squirrels are not only drawn to bird feeders but also repel the birds, do damage to the feeders and eat up all the bird seed, they're often a major nuisance for backyard bird watchers. So, if you're looking for great squirrel proof bird feeders that actually work, keep reading.?

The Squirrel Buster Plus

The Squirrel Buster Plus looks like a simple tubular feeder. However, its small, circular perch is actually weight-sensitive. So, when a squirrel jumps on, the platform will lower and close the feeding doors at the same time. Eventually, the squirrels get frustrated and leave. It's very effective, doesn't require batteries and is quite affordable at $49 retail.

Suet Sandwich Woodpecker Feeder

If you love listening to and watching woodpeckers, then the Suet Sandwich is the perfect solution to keep your winged friends well fed and the squirrels out. The feeder works by encasing two slices of suet beef fat between two pieces of fake bark. Because the woodpecker is long-tongued, they're able to access the tasty treat, but the squirrels are kept out. It retails for around $35.

Droll Yankees Squirrel-Proof Feeders

The Droll Yankees line of bird feeders first came out in 2000. Basically, the perch is motorized and starts to spin when a squirrel sits on it. The idea is that the squirrel will go flying. The battery requires recharging every eight to twelve weeks. For the past two years, the company's line of squirrel-tipping feeders has been extended to also include models with weight-activated, collapsible perches or trays. These models start at $79 and go up to $119.

Buy a Squirrel Feeder

If you can't beat them, feed them. To keep squirrels off your feeder, try a block of birdseed placed on the ground. These all-in-one feasters come in a hefty size and hold several pounds of seeds and nuts in one compressed block. The squirrels will nibble away and (hopefully) leave your bird feeder alone.

Make Your Own

Instructables, a popular how-to website, has step-by-step instructions, including pictures, on how to put together your very own squirrel proof bird feeders for less than $10. By relying on lightweight cable ties as perches, this ingenious design makes it impossible for squirrels to steal your bird seed.

Check it out online at instructables.com/id/How-to-build-a-Flexi-Perch-Squirrel-proof-birdfe/?ALLSTEPS.