Bird Feeder Hanging Cable? The 185 Detailed Answer

Dear Diane: I want to feed BIRDS, not squirrels! How can I get the squirrels to stop raiding my feeders?

– Sandy Joseph, Corona, California.

Squirrels like to eat the same things that birds do, and they will do almost anything to get the food.

You can walk on the wire, jump straight up a meter, jump sideways ten feet, and climb anything.

Here are some ways to deter squirrels from emptying your bird feeders. Any, or better yet, any combination of these strategies can reserve feeding sites for your birds.

1. Keep your bird feeders high – at least four feet off the ground and ten feet away from any house, log, car, scarecrow, bird feeder, or anything else that squirrels can make a flying leap from.

2. Use baffles on any poles you hang your feeders from. This sometimes, if not always, prevents squirrels from climbing up for food. You can also hang feeders from a wire stretched between trees or buildings. However, make sure the feeders are at least 5 feet high and 10 feet from the ends, and put baffles on the wires to discourage squirrels from using them as roads. But think about how to get them yourself to fill up.

The most successful baffle we have ever used is the Squirrel Stopper Pole shown in the right column. This amazing feeding device is the main reason squirrels are no longer a problem at our bird feeders at Birdwatching Dot Com. I (Diane) LOVE my squirrel stopper!

3. Use squirrel-proof feeders. Not plastic. Not wood. These are like caramels for squirrels. A squirrel-proof feeder is made of metal and has a device that locks the food away if a squirrel tries to get to it. Some feeders with weight-activated connectors do a good job, including the Squirrel Buster Plus (our favorite).

4. Cage feeders are often effective, like the EZ Fill Suet Basket Feeder. Such feeders deter adult squirrels from reaching in and getting the food. However, chipmunks pass through the openings and happily feast inside.

Some tubular feeders are now encased in a green wire mesh cage, like the Duncraft Squirrel-Blocker Selective Feeder. Other feeders are metal boxes with a spring-loaded platform. When a heavy squirrel lands on the platform, a door over the feeding holes will close. Lighter birds can land and feed without the door closing.

5. Offer foods squirrels don’t like:

Safflower – Squirrels rarely eat it.

nyger – squirrels are not interested

pure tallow – without seeds in it.

6. Capsaicin (hot peppers) is not recommended. A squirrel (or bird) that gets in its eyes with the burning substance must really suffer. If we make every effort to attract wildlife, it seems a breach of hospitality to then inflict pain or injury on them when they accept the invitation.

If all else fails, maybe we can learn to love squirrels too. They like the same things as birds. So if squirrels visit your feeding sites, it must mean that you have created a good habitat. And that’s a good thing in this human-centric world.

Squirrels are part of nature too. I think they are quite interesting in their own right. But I apply the above measures to give the birds a bigger share of the bounty.

Squirrel Proofing Tips Whether You Love Them or Hate Them

Squirrel. Most people either love them or hate them. They are smart, relentless and can become a nuisance when trying to feed the birds. In fact, many people can become disillusioned with feeding birds because squirrels can be so destructive. They have voracious appetites and will be eating their way through all your birdseed in a matter of hours. But we have a few squirrel-proofing tips that will deter squirrels from feeding on your bird feeders. You might even learn to love their antics!

Just the facts, ma’am!

We believe knowledge is power. One of your best defenses is learning what to do against these furry creatures.

tail or sail?

Eastern gray squirrels are famous for their leaping abilities. They can leap across large open spaces and land safely with grace and agility. The explanation for this balance can be found in their fluffy tails. It acts as a rudder, counterweight and air brake. The tail can even be manipulated mid-jump!

The paws have it

Squirrels are undoubtedly master climbers. And their paws are perfectly designed to help them reach places that humans or other beasts could never dream of. They have four long toes on the front paws and five on the hind paws. Each toe has a long claw that further aids in climbing. However, these clawed toes also allow squirrels to grasp and manipulate objects.

upside down

The hock joints in their hind legs also offer unparalleled customization. These joints allow squirrels to rotate their hind feet so they can climb down objects head first.

Squirrel Proof Feeders.

These bird feeders are the best choice for keeping squirrels away from your bird seed.

Weight activated feeders

These nifty feeders automatically close the feeding openings when a squirrel lands on them. However, since birds are lighter than squirrels, they do not trigger the mechanism.

Squirrel Resistant Cage Style Feeders

Some feeders have a cage built around them to allow birds access to food, but squirrels, chipmunks, and larger aggressive birds do not. The housings are made of metal, so that annoying critters cannot chew through them either.

Squirrel Baffles

A squirrel baffle is a clear plastic or black metal dome that is placed over the top of your feeders. They have a smooth, sloping surface so squirrels don’t have anything to hold on to and slip off instantly. They come in many shapes and we recommend either the dome or cone shape. Squirrels can manipulate flat baffles and climb over them, so avoid them.

Location, location, location!

As your local real estate agent will tell you, location is everything. So consider where you place your feeding stations and be considerate of hungry squirrels.

Hang bird feeders on trees

If you’re hanging a bird feeder from a tree, try hanging it about 12 feet from the trunk. That way squirrels might not be able to jump on it. For the same reason, also make sure your bird seed is at least 9 feet off the ground. Choose a thin link; This will further deter squirrels because they don’t like being exposed to predators.

Hang birdhouses on a line

If you are hanging the feeder on a line, make sure once again that it is at least 9 feet off the ground. Try using a thin line of chew-resistant material, such as metal chain, piano wire, or monofilament fishing line. Avoid ropes or plastic cords. Squirrels will chew through them easily, causing the feeder to fall to the ground.

Mount a bird feeder on a pole

If you use a pole mount for your feeder, it needs to be high. This allows you to bury the perch at least 30cm into the ground and still keep your feeder high enough so squirrels can’t jump off the ground. You can also hang the feeding trough on a shepherd’s hook. Choose one that is smooth so squirrels can’t grab it.

Don’t forget your baffles.

I don’t eat that!

Squirrels will eat almost anything, but there are some types of bird seeds and additives that squirrels don’t like to eat. By choosing a few of these, you can make your bird feeders squirrel proof.

safflower seeds

Safflower seeds appeal to a range of birds including cardinals, pigeons, tits, nuthatches and house finches. Squirrels don’t like the taste of safflower

Niger/Thistle seed

This seed comes from Africa or Asia and squirrels just don’t like it. It attracts a variety of finch species including American goldfinch, purple finch and redpoll. However, you will need to purchase a dedicated finch feeder with small feeding holes to accommodate the size of this seed.

cayenne pepper

Another option is to sprinkle your bird feeder with cayenne pepper. The taste will repel squirrels. Don’t worry about birds though, they can’t taste it. But beware, squirrels can develop a taste tolerance so you may need to increase the dosage. Use this in conjunction with the other squirrel proofing methods as some squirrels just don’t care how it tastes.

Looking for squirrel proof feeders and accessories? Check out all the options in Sneade’s Ace Home Center. We love our feathered friends and hope these tips will encourage and inspire you. Squirrel-proof birdhouses and tips… another reason Sneade’s Ace Home Center is the place to be!

Hello friend!

Thank you for visiting and reading! My name is Garth and I would like to welcome you to my personal birding space.

Whether you want to attract songbirds to your garden, enjoy birding hotspots, learn bird symbolism, or start bird photography, you’ve come to the right place.

Every bird watcher has seen birds foraging for food at different altitudes. Quail, Juncos and Thrashers can often be seen feeding on the ground. Catbirds, sparrows and buntings are usually spotted in the bushes. Warblers, vireos and kinglets can be seen feeding high up in the trees. But what do these feeding heights mean for proper bird feeder placement? Do hanging birdhouses at the right height help attract more birds?

Why birds eat at different heights

Birds are adapted to different niches and use different food sources. This means they naturally feed at different altitudes where these foods are easiest to find and most abundant. For example, many seed-eating birds feed on the ground or deeper in bushes and shrubs, where they are more likely to find seeds. Fruit-eating birds feed where fruit ripens, from the mid-levels of berry bushes to high up in fruit-bearing trees.

Insects are a favorite food for many birds and they live at different altitudes. Grubs, ants and larvae tend to be found lower down, while mosquitoes and other winged insects are found higher up in the plant foliage.

Feeding height is not a hard and fast rule for most birds and they will readily feed at different levels if the food catches their attention. Birds often change their diet based on what food is available at different times, and they can also easily adapt to different feeding levels.

See also: Where to hang seed food for birds

Best bird feeder heights

The best height for a bird feeder is a level where the birds are most comfortable and most familiar with finding their preferred food. If the feeder is at a comfortable height, it’s also likely to attract more species and house a more diverse flock. The most popular bird feeder heights for popular backyard birds are:

Cardinals and Finches (feed at lower levels) – about eye level, 5-6 feet

Woodpeckers (feed higher in trees) – 6-10 feet

Hummingbirds (feed on flowering bushes and vines) – 3-6 feet

Sparrows and Towhees (ground feeders) – 1-5 feet

Tit and Tits (medium tree eaters) – 5-10 feet

Bluebirds (medium tiers and bottom feeding) – 5-7 feet

Orioles (feed on bushes and trees) – 6-10 feet

There is a lot of flexibility in the height of the bird feeder. It is not uncommon to find birds at feeding sites that are higher or lower than where they would normally feed. Most birdhouses are positioned at a height of 5-6 feet, and that fits in perfectly with many of the most popular backyard birds.

Other feeder height considerations

Because birds are flexible with their feeders, birders can consider more than just how high a bird typically feeds when positioning feeders. Security is a particularly important concern. Feeders should be at elevations that are good for birds but bad for predators. Cats can jump several meters in the air. This means that a low feeder could be an easy target for a stray cat.

Squirrels are also good jumpers and can easily jump onto feeding sites that are too low or too close to branches, rooflines, fences, or other take-off points. So it’s good to keep most squirrels away from a bird feeder by using sturdy baffles and locating the bird feeders a little higher.

Convenience is another consideration for bird feeders. If a feeder is too tall, a ladder or raising and lowering system may be required to refill or clean the feeder. If a feeder becomes too uncomfortable, it can be neglected and is not a good source of hungry birds. A height of 5-6 feet isn’t too far off for most birders, but big enough – with a good baffle and feeder design – to be safe for birds.

Birds are likely to find your feeders no matter what height they are at, and choosing a safe, comfortable height will ensure that both you and the birds can enjoy the feeder even more.

Blue Jay by Jake Publicover via Birdshare.

The two most important things to consider when deciding where to place your bird feeder are: can you see the bird feeder well and is the bird feeder in a safe location. The first of these is easy, but the second requires a little more planning. You should make sure the feeding station is in a location that is relatively safe from window collisions and predators.

Perhaps counterintuitively, bird feeders are safest when they’re near windows – because if a bird takes off from the feeder and hits the window, it’s not flying at top speed and has a better chance of surviving – so it’s best to avoid it to place feeders closer than 3 feet to a picture window (or even attached to the glass or window frame). It is estimated that window glass kills at least 100 million birds each year in the United States. Here you can find out more about the latest findings on window security from our magazine.

Feeding stations near natural shelters such as trees or shrubs provide birds with a resting place between feedings and a quick refuge if a goshawk flies through. Evergreens are ideal – their dense foliage buffers winter winds and provides year-round hiding places from predators.

However, be careful not to place your feeder too close to cover. Nearby branches can be jumping points for seed-hungry squirrels and hiding places for bird-hungry cats. A distance of about 10 feet seems like a good compromise, but try experimenting. You can provide roost and escape shelter for ground-dwelling birds like song sparrows and white-throated sparrows by providing loosely stacked clusters of bushes near your feeding sites. Learn more about safe feed placement from Project FeederWatch.

Best locations for hummingbird feeders

Hummingbird feeders should be placed out of the wind; a swaying feeder can spill sugar solution. Also, try to put them where they will be shaded most of the time, as the sugar solution will spoil quickly in the sun.

no birds?

When you first set up a feeder, you may not have feeders. Be patient – the native birds have yet to discover the new food source. As with any new restaurant, you may need to do a little advertising to get some customers. If no birds are visiting your seed feeder within a few days of setting it up, try scattering seeds on the ground nearby to make the feeder more visible. If birds congregate nearby but just won’t come to your feeding spot, sprinkle seeds between the preferred area and the feeding spot.

Also, if the seed blows out or gets wet in the feeder, it may be too exposed for birds to be comfortable. Try moving the feeder to a quieter, more sheltered location.

If the birds are still not coming, you may need more bird-friendly plants in your landscaping. You can get advice from someone who has a successful bird feeder in your area, or browse our bird-friendly homepages for many ideas specific to your area.

Oh! Squirrel! While these cute little creatures aren’t exactly evil, you probably haven’t spent hundreds of dollars on birdhouses, birdhouses, and birdbaths to create a squirrel sanctuary. (But if so, we love this! Send us pictures!)

When you bought your first bird feeder, you probably filled it to the brim with sunflower seeds, hung it on your favorite tree, and got on with your day. How long did it take for your bird feeder to turn into a neighborhood bistro for all the squirrels in town? A day? One week? A month?

Whether squirrels broke into your bird feeders the day you installed them or months later, you’re probably looking for a safe, ethical way to keep them at bay. You might also be interested in who keeps sparrows out of your aviary.

If you’ve been looking for actionable, tested tips and tricks to keep squirrels away, you’re in luck. We’ve compiled thirteen proven ways to prevent squirrels from eating from your bird feeders.

Out of interest: Our best-selling birdhouses include:

1. Height, height, height

Birds (including hummingbirds) have wings. Squirrels, well, not. Unless you’re dealing with an infestation of flying squirrels, in which case, oops! This tip is all about keeping bird feeders high enough (and far enough away) to keep squirrels away from every feeding post and bird feeder in your yard.

So, here’s the kicker: Generally speaking, a squirrel won’t jump more than 5 feet off the ground. They will not jump more than 7 feet. And they won’t jump down more than 9 feet from the top. If you can find a safe place to hang a bird feeder that ticks all the boxes of the 5-7-9 rule, you can deter some squirrels from reaching your bird feeder.

However, this rule is more attractive in theory than in practice. Think of all the places you see squirrels in your neighborhood. Jumping from tree to tree on power lines, on roofs. Can you really identify a good spot (high enough and far enough away) for a bird feeder that a squirrel can’t access? If not, read on.

2. Use wire to trick squirrels

Still trying to wrap your brain around our previous suggestion? Well wire is your answer. Squirrels are too big to walk on a vertically positioned wire, so they have to jump up and down instead. If you can hang bird feeders at least 8-10 feet from a pole and at least 5 feet off the ground, you should keep squirrels away.

What Kind of Wire Should You Use to Hang a Bird Feeder? You can use whatever you want as long as it’s durable and safe. Visit your local hardware store to find out what type of cable is best for the climate you live in.

Because you’re using wire to make a squirrel proof bird feeder, you get the added bonus of being able to choose any bird feeder you want. Our recommendation? This classic red and white tallow feeder.

3. Buy a squirrel baffle

Yes, a squirrel baffle is a real thing. (I know. We think the name is silly too.)

Squirrel deflectors are wobbly pieces of metal that attach to the top of bird feeders and birdhouses.

Here’s how they work: Once installed, they literally amaze the squirrel with their slippery, grippy surface. Baffles are also a protective shield, helping to protect bird seeds from the elements. (One important note: baffles are designed to discourage and redirect squirrels, not harm them. Baffles that you think might put a squirrel in danger should not be used.)

You can buy a baffle in a variety of shapes and sizes, so look for one that suits your needs. Here are the three most popular:

Wrap around baffle

A perimeter squirrel screen is great for keeping squirrels away from bird feeders. By creating a tapered, unstable separation between the pole and the bird feeder, perimeter baffles deter squirrels from stealing bird seed.

torpedo deflector

Torpedo deflectors also keep squirrels away from bird feeders. These spherical deflectors can turn any driven post into a dead-end tunnel for squirrels to eat. By turning a pole into a one-way street, you can direct rodent traffic away from bird feeders, birdhouses, and more.

dome baffle

Last but not least, a dome screen — designed to look like an upside-down serving bowl — effectively keeps squirrels away from bird feeders. The steep curves and rounded edges of the spherical dome are particularly good at keeping squirrels away. Plus, a dome panel provides added protection from the weather and predators for helpless birds.

You can easily find baffles on the internet, but they are also available in well-stocked hardware stores and hardware stores. You may want to try different flappers to see what works best.

4. Choose your bird seeds wisely

Birds are not particularly picky scavengers. They eat pretty much anything. But apparently squirrels don’t like thistle seeds. Try adding something to your bird feeders. Adding a not-so-appealing seed to your bird mix might be enough to keep squirrels away from your bird feeders forever.

Squirrels also don’t like nyjer seeds or white proso millet, so mix some with your standard sunflower seeds.

Hopefully, this low-maintenance trick will be enough to keep squirrels at bay. You don’t have to throw away all your seed, either. You can easily add these three “squirrel repeller” seeds to your mix.

5. Spice up your feed

Squirrels and birds have very different taste buds. As it turns out, birds don’t perceive heat and pungency the way humans (or acorn-eating squirrels) do.

Whether this tip actually works or is just a fairy tale is not entirely clear. But rumor has it that dropping a spoonful of dehydrated cayenne pepper into your bag of seeds can be squirrel-proof bird seed.

Why? Well, that spicy feeling we get when we eat a hot dish comes from a compound in spicy foods known as capsaicin. Mammals have special nerves in our mouths that respond to hot peppers… and squirrels are mammals! But birds aren’t, of course. Birds may happily eat hot pepper seeds, but squirrels detest it.

So when you’re looking for a squirrel-proof food bowl, it might be more about what’s inside than you think!

A small disclaimer: some bird lovers believe that hot seeds and peppers can bother birds’ eyes. Please do your research before choosing this method.

6. Twist it

Try a rotating hook to hang birdhouses. The movement is a major deterrent and one of many ways to keep squirrels away from bird feeders. You can find spinning hooks at your local hardware store or online.

You can also try to find a feeder that is designed to rotate.

It is important to note that this method should not pose any risk to squirrels. Its goal is to make it difficult for squirrels to access your bird feeder. If you have reason to believe that the spinner you are considering might harm squirrels, please try another method.

To learn more about several inhumane, inadvisable squirrel prevention techniques and why you should never try them, go to the bottom of this article.

7. Feed the squirrels too

we know we know You don’t necessarily want to lure squirrels into your garden. So giving them your own feeder might seem very counterintuitive.

Still, some homeowners have found that offering squirrels their own dinner can keep them away from your bird feeders. Squirrels like peanuts and dried corn on the cob.

You can buy a squirrel feeder online or make one yourself. To make a squirrel feeder like this one from the DIY network, you’ll need scrap wood, a table saw, a drill, and some zinc plated screws.

8. Try a slinky…really!

Okay, this strategy seems a bit banana too. But some gardeners swear by attaching a slinky to the end of a bird feeder so it wraps around the post. If a squirrel tries to jump on the slinky to get to the bird feeder, gravity will just send them back to the ground. It’s like a very cute elevator.

The slinky serves as a sort of DIY baffle that stuns squirrels to keep them away from your birds’ food source. You can find a slinky at most toy stores or online.

9. Upgrade to a caged bird feeder

While replacing your bird feeder should be a last resort, some homeowners find that an enclosed caged bird feeder is quite effective at keeping squirrels out.

How do caged bird feeders work? Well, the cage’s openings are the perfect size. They are wide enough to let in small birds but narrow enough to keep squirrels out. While there is no squirrel-proof bird feeder, this is as close as it’s ever been.

If you can, look for a caged vintage feeder. They’re just as effective at keeping squirrels away and infinitely more fabulous.

10. Choose PVC or copper rods

When deciding on feeding poles to hang your bird feeder on, consider wooden or metal ones. Squirrels expertly climb up and down these materials, making them even more difficult to keep away from birdhouses.

Choose PVC or copper rods instead. When a squirrel climbs such poles, it becomes more difficult to reach the birds’ food source. Most feeder rods are not made from these materials, so you may need to get your hands a little dirty. Or you can buy a pre-made perch designed to deter squirrels.

11. Keep your yard clean

Nobody likes a messy garden. Except squirrels, that is.

When birds feast on the seeds supplied by your bird feeders, they make quite a mess. And this mess can be one of the main reasons squirrels and other pesky rodents are attracted to your yard in the first place. Once they arrive, they probably won’t retreat.

There are two ways to keep the mess your feathered friends wreak at bay. You can clean up afterwards yourself or attach a seed tray to the bottom of your bird feeder. The seed tray does a pretty good job of collecting dirt.

Yes, this type of gardening can be a bit of a chore, but a little tidiness can really go a long way.

12. Scare off squirrels with soap

Squirrels are said to loathe the little Irish spring soap. The musky, masculine scent is said to keep squirrels at bay…so why not give it a try?

Just hang a bar of soap not too far from your bird feeder. To protect wildlife, make sure you put the bar of soap in an old sock. You might want to reconsider this strategy in the summer, too, when sweltering temperatures can turn a bar of soap into a hot mess in just a few hours.

13. Buy a squirrel stopper pole

If you want to make sure your squirrels don’t get anywhere near your birdhouses, you may want to purchase a ready-to-install squirrel stop bar and baffle set, like this one. A squirrel stopper pole combines many of the tactics discussed for a nearly 100% squirrel proof bird feeder.

Best of all, you can hang your favorite bird feeders directly from the pole. No need to go out and buy special bird feeders or get rid of the bird feeders you already love. Just hang them directly on the squirrel-proof feeding rod and enjoy!

So there you have it! Our 13 best strategies to keep squirrels away from trees, bird feeders and bird feeders. Let us know which methods work best for you in the comments!

Avoid these harmful methods of repelling squirrels

Listen, most of us don’t want squirrels to wreak havoc on the activities, shelters, and facilities we’ve created as safe havens for beloved birds. But no matter how frustrated and confused we get, we will never suggest any harmful way to keep squirrels away from birdhouses.

After all, just like the cute little birds that visit your garden, squirrels are scavengers looking for their next meal. You don’t want them to starve! You just want them not to take your bird feeders hostage!

It’s likely someone somewhere along the way recommended one of these ways to keep squirrels away from bird feeders. If you’ve heard advice like this, our Happy Gardens team urges you to throw it out the window.

No glue and other adhesives

Any method aimed at “catching” squirrels is a cruel and unusual punishment. You can keep squirrels away from your bird feeder, but at what cost? The best scenario is that they tear their fur out trying to escape, which is just awful. Also, if they escape, they could easily eat poisonous glue to clean themselves.

At worst, squirrels could get stuck on the poles indefinitely.

No poison, never

If anyone (or any article) suggests planting poison to keep squirrels away from bird feeders, walk away! Poisoning squirrels who are just looking for a little lunch is cruel. And it also endangers everyone else who shares a yard with these squirrels. Your children, your dogs, your cats and the birds you have attracted, too.

No petroleum jelly or grease

Vaseline is sometimes touted as a way to make squirrel-proof bird feeders. Greasing a feeding post to keep squirrels away is downright inhumane. They sustain serious injuries if they slip, slide, or fall off a pole too quickly or clumsily.

Also, it can be very difficult to remove the fat from their fur. They can eat while trying to groom themselves. Or they can damage their fur and struggle to stay warm during the colder months. Not good!

Be sure to also read our post on how to keep ants away from a hummingbird feeder.

About happy gardens

Happy Gardens is the proud curator of countless thoughtful, eye-catching garden ornaments and merchandise. We’ve handpicked every little item in our shop for garden lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and of course bird nerds. Looking for a wind chime, garden statue or rain gauge? We have all that too. Each item in our shop has been selected to fill your outdoor space with charm and happiness.

Also, we recently added a number of new goods to our online store. From whimsical tote bags to adorable wine glasses, you’ll find no shortage of affordable, fun gifts for friends, family and co-workers.

All Happy Gardens products, including our birdhouses, bathtubs and feeders, come with a one-year limited replacement warranty and extremely friendly, fast and responsive customer service.

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Let’s face it: there are no birdhouses that are absolutely squirrel-proof. But you can reduce squirrel visits by trying these feeders and tips.

Do squirrels by your birdhouse drive you crazy? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions we get here at Birds & Blooms is, “How can I keep squirrels out of my bird feeder?” So we’ve rounded up the best tips we can find for squirrel-resistant bird feeders and six squirrel-resistant ones Found bird feeder options to try. It’s unlikely you’ll ever get rid of these pesky critters entirely, but these suggestions should help get more seeds in your feeding bowls to the birds.

Having big problems with Bully Birds? How to get rid of grackles and blackbirds at feeding stations.

The best squirrel-proof bird feeders to try

We make no promises but these are some of the most popular squirrel proof bird feeders out there. Combine them with the following tips for the best chance of finally thwarting those sneaky squirrels. Psst – also discover natural ways to keep bees and wasps away from hummingbird feeding sites.

1. Yankee Flipper® Seed Feeder

The squirrel-proof Yankee Flipper bird feeder uses a small motor to send squirrels on their way. It’s weight activated so nothing happens when birds land on the perch and they can enjoy a snack. However, when it tries something heavier like a squirrel, the fun begins! Psst – want to attract more redbirds? Here are the best cardinal bird feeders and bird feeders.

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2. Droll Yankees Domed Cage Bird Feeder

This classic bird feeder style is popular for a reason – it works. The feeding tube inside the cage contains a variety of seeds and only smaller songbirds can find their way to the feed. Check out the best finch feeders to attract finches.

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3. Squirrel proof double tallow feeder

Feeder cages are also good for suet cakes. Smaller songbirds and woodpeckers slip right through, leaving behind squirrels, raccoons and large birds of prey. Check out the best suet foods for winter birds

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4. Squirrel Buster Plus Bird Feeder

Squirrels make a quick disappearance of seeds and peanuts, and European starlings and grackles are also attracted to these foods. Block out eager eaters with the Squirrel Buster Plus Bird Feeder Theme. One of our editors tried this feeder – check out the review!

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5. Squirrel Resistant Feeder Woodlink Absolute II

This squirrel-proof automatic feeder also works according to the weight principle. Lightweight birds can land and feed on the spring-activated perches, but a heavier squirrel will instantly cause the metal shield to close, impeding access to the seed. It can be adjusted for weight to deter bully birds as well. Check out the 10 types of bird feeders you need in your yard

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6. Sky Cafe Bird Feeder

Via Amazon.com

The Sky Cafe Feeder features a baffle that does double duty. Squirrels can’t reach around to steal seeds, and birds are sheltered from rain and snow while perched under the baffle.

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12 tips for success with a squirrel-proof bird feeder

Courtesy of Scott Hottle

1. Follow the 5-7-9 rule

In general, squirrels cannot jump more than 5 feet off the ground, be more than 7 feet from a tree or building, and are reluctant to drop more than 9 feet from the top of a feeding station. Place your feeder with these numbers in mind to deter a large majority of squirrels.

So if your bird feeder is 5 feet off the ground, 7 feet on each side of a launch site, and 9 feet under an overhang, 90% of the squirrels will not be able to jump onto a dirty feeder. Adding 6 inches to these measurements should prevent 100% of the squirrels from reaching the feeder.

Psst – we’ve found the 7 best bird feeders.

2. Stun the squirrels

Squirrels are amazing climbers, even on metal poles. Buy a squirrel deterrent and attach it to the pole to prevent them from climbing up from below. Check out the premium bird feeder squirrel baffles.

3. Place a slinky on the bird feeder to stop squirrels

If you want a little more fun with your squirrels, try turning a toy slinky into a baffle. Thread the post through the slinky and secure one end under the feeder so it can hang down the post. Shorten it when the slinky hits the ground. Squirrels that try to climb it will be driven back to the ground every time!

A squirrel attempting to climb the post will ride the slinky back to the ground each time. Again, remember to use the 5-7-9 rule when placing the feeder to prevent squirrels from bypassing the Slinky Baffle.

4. String soda bottles on a wire

Squirrels are real circus performers when it comes to walking tightropes. Their amazing maneuverability makes bird feeders hanging from wires easy prey for any squirrel.

Hang your feeders from a wire stretched from pole to pole at least 5 feet off the ground. To prevent squirrels from doing a tightrope trick, tie gallon-sized plastic soda bottles to the wire on either side of the feeders. The squirrels unroll the plastic bottles as soon as they approach.

5. Try Caged Bird Feeders

Invest in a squirrel-proof caged bird feeder. The design is particularly good for feeders for small birds such as finches or titmice, and it also does a good job of keeping the bully birds out. In areas where squirrels are particularly small, like the Deep South, these types of squirrel-proof bird feeders may be less effective.

Generally, by enclosing bird feeders in wire mesh large enough to let birds in but small enough to exclude squirrels, you have effectively protected the bird feeder from squirrels.

6. Switch your seed

Squirrels love most types of bird seed, but some people note that they tend to leave safflower seeds alone. Birds such as cardinals and tits enjoy thistle seed, so replacing the seed with safflower in one or more of your feeders may help.

7. Choose the right pole

Wooden and metal poles are very easy for squirrels to climb, but PVC or copper pipes have been found to pose more of a challenge. Try building your own pole or feeder station with these materials. Avoid greasing feeders as this is harmful to birds and other wildlife.

8. Keep the floor under feeders clean

Squirrels love to scavenge for seeds on the ground and they might be attracted to the debris from your feeding sites. Once in the area, they will surely try to get into the feeders as well. Keep the areas under your food bowls clean (this is also a good way to deter other unwanted pests like rats or raccoons). Attach a large tray to the pole under the feeders to catch the falling seed. Try the Brome Buster seed catcher. As a bonus, you can attract more ground-eating birds like mourning doves and juncos.

9. Add chili peppers to birdseed

Squirrels and birds taste different. For example, birds don’t like the hotness of peppers, but squirrels do. Some people swear by thoroughly mixing a small amount of capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, with your seed. It leaves a bad taste in a squirrel’s mouth, but birds don’t mind. Try about a tablespoon of cayenne pepper in a 10-pound bag of seeds. You can also buy hot pepper tallow cakes. However, there are people who argue that the pepper can irritate birds’ eyes, so use this method with caution.

10. Hang Irish Spring Soap nearby

An often-shared tip for a squirrel-proof feeder is to hang a bar of Irish Spring soap in a nearby sock. The scent is said to repel squirrels and other unwanted rodents.

11. Twirling squirrels

Hang your bird feeders on a rotating hook, or look for special squirrel-proof bird feeders like the Yankee Flipper that are designed to knock squirrels off.

12. Feed the enemy

Sometimes giving squirrels their own feeding spots is enough to keep them away from bird feeders. Try a dried corn cob feeder or build a DIY squirrel feeder to offer them peanuts.

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The Spruce / Chloe Jeong

A squirrel-proof bird feeder provides a food source for your feathered friends and deters backyard squirrels from stealing the bounty. We researched and tested the best squirrel-proof bird feeders available online, ranking them for ease of setup, size, and durability. Our top pick, the Brome Squirrel Solution Wild Bird Feeder is sturdy, easy to fill, and easy to buy. Here are the best birdhouses.

Most people feed birds in winter when natural food is scarce. Bird feeders then attract birds more quickly.

But waiting until winter comes to put up your bird feeders may actually be too late!

So when is the best time to set up your bird feeder and start feeding the birds?

Set up bird feeders and start feeding birds in the fall to get the most birds to your feeders, during migration and all winter! September and October are good months to set up your bird feeder.

You can certainly feed birds all year round. And if so, then it doesn’t matter when you start. Today is a great day to set up your bird feeders and start feeding the birds!

However, there are three main reasons why fall might be the best time to put up your birdhouses.

Reason 1: Start feeding birds in the fall to attract and help native nesting birds

Reason 2: Start feeding birds in the fall to attract and help migratory birds

Reason 3: Start feeding birds in the fall to attract and help overwintering birds

Black-capped Chickadee is a resident breeder in the north. Gregory Gilson.

Start feeding birds in the fall to attract and help local nesting birds

Natural food is generally plentiful during the summer and early fall to keep the native nesting birds well fed. There are insects, fruits and seeds.

However, as fall progresses, natural foods begin to dwindle. You will find that many young birds visit your feeding stations in the fall. The extra food supply from your bird feeders can help more young birds survive those critical first few weeks and months.

Pay attention and you may spot these birds of the year. Younger birds tend to be less colorful and more striped than adults. But this youthful plumage doesn’t last long. Within a few weeks, the young and adults of many species at your feeding station can be difficult to tell apart.

You may notice that some native birds such as nuthatches, tits and jays grab food and fly away with it in the fall. They cache the food – store it and hide it somewhere else. You will be going through a lot of bird seeds at this point. But these birds will eat this food supply later in the winter when the natural diet runs out.

Black-headed hawfinches are migrants through much of the west. Gregory Gilson.

Start feeding birds in the fall to attract and help migratory birds

Your resident birds help migratory birds find your bird feeder.

Seed-eating migratory birds survived the summer in boreal forests or other areas north of you. They fly all night. At dawn they look for a safe place to feed and rest.

As they fly over your neighborhood in the early morning, they may see or hear noisy native birds at your feeding station. Then they come by and spend a day or three before continuing their migration.

Their feeding sites are very important fuel stops for these migratory birds. Set up your bird feeders in early fall to encourage more of these birds to visit.

Depending on the weather and wind, you may find waves of migratory birds arriving at your feeding ground overnight. Some days it may be few, other days many. They stay until the winds are favorable to continue flying south.

Autumn migration can actually begin as early as July, but September and October are the peak, with migratory birds appearing at your feeder by November.

Keep track of which migrants are early migrants and which are later migrants – each species is different. And you may find that adults and birds may not migrate at the same time in the first year (usually adults migrate first).

White-crowned sparrows are winter visitors to much of the United States. Gregory Gilson.

Start feeding birds in the fall to attract and help overwintering birds

At the beginning of December the autumn migration is over. Migratory birds have arrived in their winter quarters.

Birds wintering in your area will settle where food, water, and shelter are plentiful. They spend the entire winter and early spring in this small area.

If you’ve already set up your bird feeders to attract them in early fall, birds will likely choose your immediate neighborhood to spend the winter.

However, if you wait until winter to set up your bird feeders, you will only attract the birds that are already in your neighborhood.

The earlier you set up your bird feeders in the fall, the more birds and bird species will be left over the winter.

Put up your bird feeder and start feeding birds in the fall. When the cold winter days come, you’ll already have a lively bird feeder filled with a variety of birds to feast your eyes on!

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