If you have squirrels in your yard, and most of us do, you probably are looking for a squirrel proof bird feeder.
A lot of companies have feeders available that are called squirrel proof, but in reality keeping a squirrel away from food is nearly impossible.
In this article we want to look at three things to look for in a wild bird feeder.
The three keys we are going to look for are the quality of construction, the type of bird we want to attract and ease of care for the feeder.
Quality of construction Quality has to be our number one consideration for the simple fact that squirrels are very destructive.
They want that feed and will work all day every day to get to the food.
If your feeder is not made from very substantial material the squirrels will tear it apart.
I am sure you have heard that you get what you pay for.
That is very true in this case.
Do not buy those cheap bird feeders if you have squirrels in your yard.
Either buy a well constructed, heavy built feed station or realize you will have to keep replacing the cheap ones.
The type of bird you want to attract There are many types of birds and many desire certain habitats for feeding and are very picky about what they eat.
The feeder you choose must match the bird you want to attract.
Squirrel proof feeders come in many forms to supply the different birds with what they want.
Very little can be done to protect the ground feeding birds, squirrels will just run them off and eat the food.
Some people have some success with the above ground platforms, if they can position them to where a squirrel cannot reach them.
When hanging a food station from a pole or a limb be sure to use a squirrel guard even if your feeder is squirrel resistant.
There are many types of guards available to fit your feeding situation.
Ease and care of the feeding station Some of the squirrel resistant designs are so complicated that it is hard to maintain the equipment.
Many of the feeders are built so complicated, to keep the squirrels out, that they keep you out too.
So, check to see how easy it is to fill with bird seed and how easy it is to clean and maintain.
Feeding is a very rewarding past time, but squirrels can be a big problem.
Try the above three tips to pick the right squirrel proof feeder and you can get a head start on those bushy-tailed critters.
Another tip is to feed the squirrels as well as the birds.
That way they are not so anxious to raid the birds.