Squirrels will climb and suddenly fall when meeting the slinky, making them give up and go away in no time. There are articles upon articles talking about this one topic, after all, all you need to do is look. Now, if all this DIY is too much, youre still in luck, I put together a post for the best squirrel proof bird feeders you can buy. Keep reading to find out. Its 17-inch diameter offers ample coverage, keeping even the most determined pests at bay. With its high-quality construction and reliable protection, its definitely worth considering. If youre looking for a squirrel-proof bird feeder pole, the Squirrel Stopper Deluxe Squirrel Proof Pole System with Baffle is a great option. It can sense the weight of the object standing on it and can not withstand heavier animals like squirrels. I have tried cayenne pepper and pretreated seed and neither one of these stopped the pesky rascals. It should be the consistency of stirred up crunchy peanut butter. For me personally, it isnt as aesthetically pleasing as Old Faithful, but thats just because I enjoy complex designs and the more extravagant things (as I said earlier, skull cups). But guess what, plenty of our feathered friends arent in love with it either, so theres quite a few that youll miss out on if you only use safflower seeds. They also have learned how to get past the baffles. If it were then Id be a pretty bad person to ask. I mix it up with two different types of suet, shelled blackoil sunflower seeds, sometimes fruit, and nyjer seed for finches. Posts below 6 feet only require a 2.5-foot deep hole. The backyard is the perfect place to bond with family and friends, to have a good time, or to simply relax with some fresh air and a bit of sunshine. They all work effectively depending on your situation, from installing a squirrel proof bird feeder pole to attaching a slinky or a baffle. The distance away includes any part of it, correct? Birds are not troublesome but squirrels really are. If bird watching is something you enjoy, you probably know by now that utilizing tree branches isnt always a realistic option for your feeder. However, it may not be compatible with all pole sizes, and assembly is required to install it. With this website I am hoping to share my passion for the backyard with you. In hotter weather, its best to dampen the soap bar, rub cotton balls on it, and then place them outside. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'guideyourpet_com-portrait-2','ezslot_22',186,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guideyourpet_com-portrait-2-0');Well, there is a number of factors you can consider when buying. Next, this may feel a little awkward, but take the bird feeder arms and screw the whole thing together at the male and female adapter connections. The slippery surface can help you beat the squirrels and raccoons that are trying to reach your bird feeders. The hooks curl under, making it difficult to unhook feeders. Want to have the discreet solar panel to your lawn lights up high so it always gets some shine? The Queension Squirrel Proof Baffle is an ideal gift for wild bird watchers and bird lovers. Nobody is stopping you. What sets this bird feeder apart is simply how accessible it is. Afterward, continue to Step 3. If youre looking for a sturdy and effective squirrel-proof bird feeder pole system, then the Squirrel Stopper Sequoia is definitely worth considering. We've got the solution! Sprinkle the powder in slowly and mix as you go to coat as much of the seed as possible. While some birds have no preference, many prefer to feed higher off the ground. Update on a DIY Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder Pole. The included attached auger makes installation incredibly easy. Then, place a slinky or an empty soda bottle on top. The 19-inch diameter design makes this squirrel baffle more effective than other sizes. Im one of those people who wear binoculars, and a funny hat, that you see in parks with necks bent to the sky, watching birds. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Thanks for stopping in. Yep, Im a birder. Easy to make and saves you money. I only recommend products Ive used and loved, unless otherwise stated. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Years later, the only wear and tear is minor scratches to the paint and subtle fading. The first is by simply getting a squirrel-proof bird feeder pole or other feeder types. If youre looking for a sturdy and versatile bird feeder pole, the Flanagan Bird Feeder Pole is a great choice. Any chance you can dream up a bear proof feeder ? Keeping your bird feeder out in the open like this also has the benefit of keeping birds safer. The first step to choosing the perfect one of anything is to understand the problem. Are Wood Chips Good For Compost (The Benefits), Making Cement & Concrete Crafts: Mixes & Sealers, (1)6 Round HVAC duct pipe @ 60 long (for the squirrel baffle), (1) 10 black pipe @ 81- (for the metal pole- you can get this cut to size in the store). Keep the arm pieces assembled for this. This pole is literally an all-in-one feeder or feeder pole station. Consider your landscaping before picking a pole height that keeps birds far off of the ground, in order to make them feel safer. 6. This is a very common issue because squirrels are very annoying. Have you been furiously searching the internet for how to get rid of crows in People get together for many different reasons, from sports to baking or a collecting hobby. Keeping the ground under your feeder clear of dropped seeds will help assure you dont attract extra dinner guests. A bird feeder pole is basically a pole used to hang one or a few feeders. This is a great product to purchase if you want to keep squirrels away from your bird feeders. These appear to have mixed results on squirrels but wont affect birds, so theyre worth a try. Squirrels can still find ways to get around the baffle, which may be a problem for some users. WebSquirrel Proof Bird Feeder Poles While hanging bird feeders are rather popular, using a bird feeder pole may prevent a lot of unwanted stress. On the other hand, if the baffle is placed from below, it will effectively interrupt squirrels while climbing. When it dries (about 30 minutes), its ready to be painted. Attach a slinky 5. Some of the links on this page have been provided as a convenience for finding materials. It is true that can use safflower seed instead of black oil sunflower seed because squirrels dont eat that type pf seed. Some smells, like peppermint oil, garlic, and vinegar, can keep squirrels away from your bird feeder. In this article, we will discuss the top-rated squirrel-proof bird feeder poles and what makes them stand out. Hi there, Im Ellen! Glue the feeder at the C pipe, using the 2-part epoxy, to both the tee connector and the reducer bushing with HVAC cap attached. WebThe Squirrel Stopper Deluxe Bird Feeder Pole System is a totally squirrel proof pole that lets the birds feed and keeps the squirrels away! How to Make a Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Pole? - 3 Ways No, thats not actually the reason why its in third place. I recommend not using a feeder that has a spinning hook or one that bends. Either way, How to Get Rid of Crows Without Scaring Other Birds? Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder Pole | How To, Easy DIY Here are ten tips to make bird feeders squirrel-proof and less attractive to thieves. Everything You Need to Know, The Best Feeders for Blue Jays and Ways to Attach Them, How to Keep Mosquitoes Out of Bird Bath 5 Best Tips for You. JCs Wildlife Flv Thru Bird Feeder is in fourth place for the same reason just it doesnt have as complex of a prevention measure, and that just puts it off for me. It almost looks like a miniature house for the birds, and thats something I can completely support. Cover the gardens. May not fit all pole sizes: This baffle is designed to fit any 2/3 inch to 1-3/8 inches pole or shepherd hook, so it may not be compatible with all pole sizes. Tips to Keep Squirrels From Climbing Bird Feeder Pole, 2. The assembled height is quite tall, which may make it difficult to reach the feeders for some people. Acetone will do both for you, so take the acetone, pour it on a rag and rub it all over the PVC. Please enter your username or email address to reset your password. Maybe your dream bird feeder isnt on here, and maybe there are other websites and brick and mortar stores that you can check before settling on the one or perhaps, your bird feeder is exactly what I recommend, who knows. Use a rubber mallet to better secure the bird feeder arms by hammering each PVC piece and connector together. Stainless steel can still deform due to specific weather conditions, so you need to keep that in mind since your bird feeder will be outside. Please report back and let me know of its success. Then glue G I tried things like sprinkling hot pepper like cayenne pepper on the seed, spinning tubes across the feeders arms and even spreading vaseline on the feeder pole- ha, squirrels are way too smart and determined. Theres nothing better than looking out your window to see a flock of colorful songbirds enjoying the offerings in your birdfeeder. Read my guide on keeping squirrels away from plants with more tips to keep your garden area free from squirrels. A squirrel can easily dig its nails into the PVC plastic and get enough leverage to climb up the PVC pipe. To be frank, fighting with squirrels is a fun activity of mine, so I collected all of my knowledge and combined it with further info from various sources Buy and install feeder poles, with a baffle set. Steel and aluminum are common materials used in the construction of bird feeder poles. The pole comes with four shepherd hooks, allowing you to attract more birds and provide more space for them to congregate. Place the pole at least 7 feet from the nearest branches, fences, and other scalable structures. In no particular order, try one or more of the following tips to keep squirrels away from your bird feeder in your backyard. It is suggested that white proso millet, safflower seed, nyjer seed are the best choices. Squirrel-Proof Pole System with Baffle. Your email address will not be published. Anything smaller than 19 inches cannot step over this baffle easily, which means that the foods in your bird feeder can be specially provided to feathery friends instead of greedy squirrels or raccoons. A squirrel proof feeder pole is exclusively made to keep squirrels off the bird feeder pole. Reliable and Practical: Made of high-quality PP material and covered with glossy black color, this baffle guard is uneasy to crack and durable. Remember, you only have to paint the top and bottom ends (6 +/- ) of the pole (B). Using this 6 round pipe is the best way to keep a squirrel from climbing to the top of the feeder. Things like raw peanuts and dried corn make wonderful squirrel food and are much less expensive than premiere bird seed. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 The Backyard Baron | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. So, Mosquitoes are drawn to standing water in the same way as moths are to lights. Lightweight birds have no problem feeding, but squirrels cant access them due to their weight. Perhaps its a time to change your approach, by considering a more practical choice of bird feeder pole. How to Make Bird Feeders Squirrel Proof (10 Tips) - The On the downside, though, these cages will also prevent larger birds from getting to the seed, so this solution depends on what types of birds youre trying to attract to your outdoor space. If you also feed the birds this food, you might as well replace them with something else squirrels dont like; otherwise, they will keep visiting your feeder pole. This incredible feature of weight-sensing only allows birds to hang around at the feeder and thus, helps you minimize chances squirrels will visit. DIY Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder | Guaranteed Squirrel Free! For over 10 years hummingbirdsplus.org has been serving the birding community. Its very easy for anyone, short or tall, young or old, to reach and change out the feed. Other features to consider include the type of feeder that will be used with the pole, the number of feeders the pole can hold, and any additional accessories that may be included, such as hooks or trays. The Squirrel Stopper Sequoia Squirrel Proof Pole System is a great option for those who want a reliable and easy-to-install bird feeder pole system that will effectively keep squirrels away from their feeders. Firstly, the material of the pole is essential. One ingenious way to keep squirrels from eating your bird seed is to add ground cayenne pepper to it. When youre not careful to choose a relatively flat location, along with hard ground, it may be difficult to keep your bird feeder straight. These items come in many different shapes and types. Not only is it easy to install, but its also easy on the eyes. Additionally, it must be taken apart when putting it on some poles. And for this reason, if you are wondering, I would not recommend using a 6 PVC pipe for the bird feeder pole or baffle. Gluing The C, G and F Pipe. 17 Cheap Garden Path Ideas and Helpful Tutorials! I mean weve seen how much a human eats, it is nothing to scoff at. While not as attractive as Old Faithful, nor as versatile as Kettle Moraine, this bird feeder still is a rather pleasant one to own. Now connect the Gs to the open ends of the cross tee and add the last 2 remaining elbows. Pole material is also another factor that plays a role in the squirrel proofing of the bird feeders. Then you wont need to flip it over to spray the other side and can do it in one shot. But I can confidently say the final product here is a truly, undeniably legitimate -squirrel proof bird feeder. They both repel squirrels just as well, and if Old Faithful is out of stock, well Kettle Moraine will do you justice, I promise! The quality of the other three bird feeders included in the system is poor and not usable. If your pole doesnt have a built-in baffle, you can slip a slinky over it and attach one end to the top of the feeder to keep squirrels from climbing all the way up. Your email address will not be published. Here are some key features to look for: The material of the pole is important to consider. Installation is hassle-free, with no special tools or expertise required. Now, with each location it has been in, there has always been a branch that has been within 6 feet, but they are thinner branches that I dont think they can get enough push off from. Squirrel-proof bird feeder hangers work excellently in stopping the pesky pest Whats more, the dirt on the baffle that placed in outdoors for a long time can be easily cleaned because of the glazed surface. The 19-inch diameter design makes it more effective than other sizes, and it can be easily attached to any existing bird-feeding rod or shepherd hook. A squirrel will eat anything, bird seed doesnt need to be one of them. Then, set them up with their own easy-access feeder filled with cheaper feed. Many bird feeder poles are too high, making it difficult to fill the feeders, or too low, leaving them an easy target for the You want to avoid places near shrubs, trees and home extensions like spouts, roofs, and drains, in order to prevent squirrels from stealing food by jumping over to feeders. After trials and errors, here we have Thayerbirding. But other tips, such as using baffles, cages, deterrents, and repellents, can also be helpful. In fact, this particular bird feeder can have up to a maximum of four arms. The Queension Squirrel Proof Baffle is made of high-quality and serviceable PP material that makes it uneasy to rust or crack. It should be tall enough to keep squirrels from jumping onto the feeder but not too tall that it becomes unstable. This tip also works well in gardens. The squirrel will attempt to climb up and simply slide down. It is lightweight yet durable, with long service life and not easily broken. Everything I own matches this aesthetic. Now insert all this into the 11 pipe sleeve set in the concrete in the ground. The two bird feeders are very close in my mind, so maybe they will be close in your mind too, or at least. Next, mix the concrete directly in the hole. My birds are thoroughly pleased as well. Use a Bird Feeder Cage. (I know. Overall, if youre looking for an effective and easy-to-clean squirrel baffle for your bird feeder pole, the Garbuildman Squirrel Baffle is a great choice. Most birds, however, do like these seeds, so they make an excellent alternative birdseed for squirrel-infested backyards. Finally, it is best if you are patient, if one tip doesnt work, apply another; and attempt to combine a few methods at the same time. However, assembly can be a bit tricky and the product is quite heavy. Conclusion: Made of high-quality steel, this pole is equipped with an effective baffle a rare find. The most common are cone-shaped and made of slick metal that squirrels cant grip. First, you need to roughen the surface of the PVC, so start by sanding all over each of the PVC pieces except for piece B, where you will only need to sand the top and bottom 6 or so. However, you need to go for a secure size of the slinky, or else it will fall off when a heavy squirrel jumps on it. DIY Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder (Guaranteed!). What I can say is that to me at least, it is a very pleasant-looking feeder (I just wish it wasnt green personally). But only mammals have pain receptors that react to capsaicin. The product may not be suitable for very heavy birdhouses. Watch this video to see how efficient this method is: If you install the baffle on top of the feeder pole, its steepness makes the squirrels trip over and prevent them from reaching the food source. If your bird feeder is easily accessible to squirrels If that was going to happen, you were best off just getting a $15 shepherds hook-style bird feeder instead of one of these fancy ones. Their poles are very sturdy and also very good at keeping squirrels away. This product is well-constructed and has a strong ground piece. However, the squirrel baffle should be a minimum of 4.5 feet from the ground to protect the bird feeder, which may not be suitable for all locations. The weight-activated bird feeder is another great choice that you should consider. If youre looking for a reliable and durable squirrel baffle to protect your bird feeders and birdhouses, the Predator Guard Squirrel Baffle is a great option. Itll deter the squirrels and keep them off the feeder pole. It will also help keep birds safer from cats and ground-dwelling predators. Squirrels are smart creatures thats for sure. Pick a good pole material . I absolutely Love this! However, this problem can be solved in no time as long as you have a thorough grasp of the solutions. (4) @ 2= D(1) @ 3= C(2) @ 12 = G(2) @ 17= F(2) @ 20= E(1) @ 11 = A(11 should be your remaining piece after cuts are made- close to this number is fine). The five-prong base holds the pole securely in the ground, ensuring stability, and the bird feeder system is easy to install and comes with proper instructions. Thayerbirding is supported by its audience. Take the reducer bushing and slide it through the top side of the HVAC cap that goes on top, and then slide the reducer bushing into the male adapter. A baffle is a device that can be attached to the pole to prevent squirrels from climbing up to the feeder. What suits one person is not going to suit all people. Check out my concrete eBook, everything you need to know about making concrete crafts all in one spot! Hummingbirds Plus is the leading website for birding information & research. Squirrels can be persistent and clever creatures, but dont worry, weve got you covered. The squirrel-proof design with an 18-inch baffle keeps squirrels from accessing the birds food. Overall there are many bird feeders you can pick, and I wish you the best of luck picking your perfect one. To see how to assemble the feeder, I strongly recommend downloading my super handy, free PDF plan. Squirrel baffles are products meant to keep squirrels from crawling up or down a pole, chain, or branch. I will warn, though, that once its in the ground, its going to be very difficult to move, so choose your location carefully.Before we choose the overall best bird feeder, we need to talk about the process of making a decision. Quick and easy installation just need to install a few small parts, this baffle will work really well for your bird feeder or bird house. To maintain a straight feeder pole, dig a hole at least 3 feet deep if your pole is 8 feet tall. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Using gloves to avoid getting cut by the sharp edges, lay the HVAC pipe down on its side and mark the three locations on the side of the cap where you will drill holes for the bolts. Finally, the baffle is quite large, which may not be visually appealing to some people. Conclusion: This pole set is constructed of durable heavy-duty, powder-coated steel, and provides an excellent anchor system. Because it is made for birds, a pole can be around 2 to 9 feet tall. Everyone is going to have different needs and preferences. The bird feeder system is easy to install and comes with proper instructions. Expert Tip: Dont get a bird feeder if you dont like how it looks, you will be seeing it all the time. Squirrel Baffle. I prefer stainless steel as it is easy to clean and extremely durable, but for your neck of the woods, this may not be preferable. The corkscrew end may break off when screwing into the ground. However, the ones weve found the most successful are those that use weight-sensitive perches to open and close the feeder doors. If youre looking for an effective squirrel baffle, the HaaWinPl Squirrel Baffle is a great option to consider. Be sure to also sand the connectors on the bird feeder arms, as well as the male and female connectors that you havent assembled yet. Blend the concrete just slightly with the shovel or use a stake and add more water or concrete as needed. Hi Terry, thanks for sharing your experience. Start by inserting the black pipe into the PVC pole sleeve and squirrel baffle pipe until it hits the top. So I set out on my quest to make the perfect squirrel proof bird feeder, and after hours and hours of engineering, I finally made the first version of this back in 2007. However, almost everything has its own inconvenient aspect and installing a bird feeder pole is no exception. In this way, the Kettle Moraine is a bit too mundane for me, but maybe for you, its a perfect fit. This approach can be especially effective when combined with our #8 tip. This bird feeder, made by Squirrel Stopper, is an absolute beauty. The height of the pole is another important factor to consider. While its price may be a bit much ($173) there are definitely other bird feeders that work worse and cost much more. What Does It Mean When There Are No Birds Around Suddenly? The primary purpose of a bird feeder for birders is to watch the birds as Thayerbirding.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Woodpecker In TN: 7 Types Of Woodpeckers In Tennessee To Look Out For, Hawks In Southern California: 12 Species Of Hawks To Look Out For In Cali, With stainless steel and weatherproof exterior, Simple and stagnant metal rods sticking out the ground, Arms are able to be used for a multitude of things, Very sturdy and also very good at keeping squirrels away, Easy to set up and also very versatile to use, Easy to reach and refill all while being extremely difficult for squirrels to access and steal from, Its very easy for anyone, short or tall, young or old, to reach and change out the feed. Take care in the location of your pole, away from platforms. Dodo Bird Facts, 17 Most Common Birds in Texas identification Guide, 10 Different Types of Squirrels & How to Identify Them. The adjustable height feature allows you to customize the pole to meet your specific needs. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'guideyourpet_com-netboard-2','ezslot_17',181,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guideyourpet_com-netboard-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'guideyourpet_com-netboard-2','ezslot_18',181,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guideyourpet_com-netboard-2-0_1'); .netboard-2-multi-181{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:15px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:15px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}This is what makes this bird feeder a very capable one, and one that I personally recommend to those who live alone and arent super knowledgeable of how to change out the feed. May not be effective against larger animals, Some users reported squirrels still finding a way to climb up, May need to be installed higher than 5 feet for optimal effectiveness. If you already own a pole, you can purchase a separate baffle set and attach it with ease. Purchase a squirrel baffle. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'guideyourpet_com-netboard-1','ezslot_15',182,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guideyourpet_com-netboard-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'guideyourpet_com-netboard-1','ezslot_16',182,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guideyourpet_com-netboard-1-0_1'); .netboard-1-multi-182{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:15px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:15px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}One person might need a very bulky squirrel baffle, whereas some might just be able to get away with a greased bird feeder pole. The dual-purpose platform makes it easy to adjust the birdhouse placement, and the product includes clear and straightforward instructions for assembly. Steel and aluminum poles are generally more durable and long-lasting than plastic poles. Add Keep in mind that squirrels can jump impressive distances. Alright but if squirrels are so smart, then how do I know I have the best pole? Learn more. However, you cant just use a black pipe or PVC pipe because a squirrel can climb a PVC pole, and so you must use a baffle over it.