Eliminating Tree-Rats
From Your Bird Feeders

Another possibility is to get a feeder encased in 1" wire mesh. This lets in small birds, but will keep out squirrels or larger birds. I've found these feeders useful when I want to place a feeder near a bush or tree. Make SURE that the feeder itself is positioned at least 3 or so inches inside the mesh or else the little beasts will be able to poke their snouts in and eat. Note that this method will not keep out chipmunks, unless combined with the pole baffle.

For feeders hanging on a chain from a tree, use an extra-wide circular baffle well above the feeder. Get the largest size possible (at least 2 feet in diameter), otherwise the squirrels can tip a smaller one and grab the chain below. I've also seen them completely let go and catch onto the feeder on the way down, that's why you need to place the baffle well above the feeder.

For suet feeders, use a "funnel" baffle but make sure the suet cake hangs up inside the funnel (see diagram). If it extends much below the bottom of the funnel the little hairballs will probably be able to get at it.

People will tell you that squirrels won't eat safflower. This is nonsense, the little furballs will chow down on the stuff given half a chance. Same with the peppery seed, you'll always have a few hardy souls who LIKE hot food.

Finally, those spring-loaded feeders that also keep off large trash birds like grackles are pretty good, but I've seen squirrels learn to hang off the side, or even chew through the plastic window (if there is one) to get at the seed. I even had one bend the metal just enough to let the seed leak through. So the best bet is to use some sort of baffle to prevent the squirrel from reaching the feeder in the first place.