Squirrel Bird Feeder

Last updated: May 30, 2025

Understanding the Bird Feeder Squirrel: A Common Backyard Visitor

Bird feeders are a great way to attract various species of birds to your backyard, but they also tend to attract one particular critter that many homeowners grapple with: the squirrel. The bird feeder squirrel is a common sight, often seen trying to invade feeders to get their share of birdseed. In this article, we will explore the behaviors of these clever creatures and offer insights on keeping them at bay while still enjoying birdwatching.

The Allure of Bird Feeders for Squirrels

Why Squirrels Love Bird Feeders

Squirrels are opportunistic feeders, and bird feeders provide an easy and reliable food source. These energetic rodents are naturally attracted to the seeds, nuts, and grains that are commonly found in bird feeders. The smell of sunflower seeds, in particular, can be irresistible to them.

Squirrel Adaptations and Intelligence

One of the reasons that the bird feeder squirrel is so successful at raiding bird feeders is their impressive agility and intelligence. Squirrels are known for their:

Acrobatic Skills: Squirrels can jump, climb, and maneuver around branches and feeder structures with ease.
Problem-Solving Ability: They often figure out how to overcome obstacles and challenges, such as using their body weight to tip feeders or jumping from nearby structures.

Creative Solutions to Keep Squirrels Away

Choosing the Right Bird Feeder

To deter squirrels, consider investing in a squirrel-proof bird feeder. These feeders are designed with mechanisms that allow birds to access the food but close off to heavier animals like squirrels. Look for feeders with:

Weight-Activated Stations: They close access to food when a heavy animal, like a squirrel, climbs aboard.
Metal Construction: Squirrels often chew through plastic, so metal feeders are more durable.

Strategic Placement of Feeders

Where you place your bird feeder can significantly impact squirrel access. Consider the following tips:

Keep the feeder at least 10 feet away from trees or structures that squirrels can jump from.
Install baffles—these are slippery surfaces below the feeder that prevent squirrels from climbing up.

Feeding Birds Without Feeding Squirrels

Types of Seeds That Squirrels Avoid

If you want to discourage squirrels from raiding your bird feeders, consider using seeds that they tend to avoid. Squirrels are often not fond of:

Safflower Seeds: These seeds are favored by cardinals and other birds but less appealing to squirrels.
Nyjer (Thistle) Seed: Typically used in feeders designed for finches, these seeds are less attractive to squirrels.

Alternative Feeding Methods

Avoid putting out a buffet for squirrels by using a platform feeder that allows smaller birds to land but keeps larger animals at bay. Additionally, you can set up a separate squirrel feeder with foods they enjoy, such as corn, to distract them from your bird feeders.

Concluding Thoughts on the Bird Feeder Squirrel

Bird feeder squirrels are a common yet often frustrating aspect of backyard birdwatching. While they can be clever and persistent, there are numerous strategies to minimize their impact on your bird feeding experience. By understanding the behaviors of these creatures and employing the right tools and placement strategies, it is possible to create a peaceful environment for both your avian visitors and a few playful squirrels.