How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Bird Feeders (Without Harming Them)

If you’ve ever set up a beautiful bird feeder only to find squirrels treating it like their personal buffet, you’re definitely not alone! They’re smart, determined, and surprisingly athletic. But the good news is that you can keep your feeders safe from squirrels without harming them, and still enjoy watching your feathered visitors in peace.

Here are some tried-and-true tips that actually work.

Table of Contents: 🪶 Choose a Squirrel-Proof Feeder 🔥 Try Spicy Seed Blends 🐿️ Give Squirrels Their Own Feeder

🪶 1. Choose a Squirrel-Proof Feeder

Start by using a feeder that’s built to do the hard work for you. Squirrel-proof feeders are designed to close automatically when a heavier animal (like a squirrel) lands on them, keeping the seed safe for the birds.

Try options like:

• Weight-activated feeders - These feeders use a built in spring system that reacts to a squirrel’s weight by gently lowering the outer cage, which closes all four feeding ports. Birds stay fed, and squirrels are blocked every time.

  
  

• Caged feeders - These feeders have a sturdy metal cage built around the seed tube, giving small birds easy access while keeping larger birds and squirrels from reaching the food.

  
  

• Pole-mounted feeders - Pole mounted feeders lift your seed higher off the ground, keep it safer from predators, and make it harder for squirrels to reach.

  
  

• Use a baffle - Baffles are one of the most effective ways to keep squirrels out of your feeders. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and block access from above or below, depending on how you hang your setup.

  
  

  • Pole mounted: A pole baffle stops squirrels from climbing up from the ground, turning most pole systems into a truly squirrel-resistant setup.

    
    

  • Hanging mount: A top baffle blocks access from above and works best when the feeder is hung high and far from railings, fences, or branches where squirrels could jump.

  
  

• Window feeders - When you hang these feeders high from a window and well away from ledges or railings, they become naturally squirrel-resistant where only birds can fly to them!

🔥 2. Try Spicy Seed Blends

I tried this for the first time last year and it ACTUALLY works! Squirrels can’t stand spicy foods, but birds don’t taste capsaicin at all. Using a naturally spiced birdseed mix is one of the easiest, non-harmful ways to keep squirrels away.

I like using Cool Birds “Hearts on Fire” Blend - it’s infused with natural chili pepper and works incredibly well.

^ Here is some unedited footage of my squirrels saying 'No thanks!" to the COOL BIRDS Hearts on Fire seed.

🐿️ 3. Give Squirrels Their Own Feeder

Here’s a trick that actually works, feed the squirrels separately. If you set up a small “squirrel station” away from your bird feeders and fill it with corn, nuts, or sunflower seeds, they’re more likely to leave your bird feeders alone.

It satisfies their curiosity, keeps them full, and gives you a little bonus wildlife entertainment too. Try these:

• Cedar Squirrel Feeder paired with a Squirrel Log - This setup gives squirrels a clear place to snack, keeping them entertained and away from your bird feeders.

  
  

• Critter Feeder paired with a Wildlife Mix - A great option for yards with lots of wildlife, offering a hearty mix that keeps squirrels happily occupied.

🐦 Final Thoughts

Squirrels might be sneaky, but you don’t have to battle them. With the right feeder, smart seed, and a few friendly deterrents, you can protect your bird seed without harming wildlife. After all, your backyard is meant to be enjoyed by everyone, feathered and furry alike!

If you try these tips, tag @chirpnook on TikTok or Instagram and show me your setup!

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them. I only recommend products I’ve personally tested and loved.

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