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Many people find that bird feeding and bird watching is a simple yet very rewarding leisure pursuit. However, there is often a catch with feeding migratory and local birds. There are occasions when you will think that you could use a nice squirrel proof bird feeder to make your hobby a bit more peaceful.
Take a look at Figure 1. The squirrel has a firm grasp on the hanging bird feeders thru the gaps between the metal cages. But, do you think that the squirrel can get into the feeds?
Keep your birds satisfied with squirrel proof bird feeder
In reality, a very determined and mind you, quick-witted squirrels will get into your large bird feeder but it will surely take some time if you have one of these squirrel proof bird feeder. The thing is, there are a lot of other ways to discourage these seemingly innocent creatures that has the capacity to consume all of your birds seeds in just a matter of days. But first, let us take a look why do squirrels including raccoons and chipmunks can become a nuisance when we are talking about bird feeding.
The main reason is that the best bird seed types, including the general favorite black oil sunflower seeds and other nuts that are in your large bird feeder are very much attractive to squirrels. It would have been a bit fine if they can also find solace in your feeders to fill their empty stomachs. However, most of them tend to create slight havoc to your hobby.
One, in order to get their hands and mouth full of birds seeds, they will jump, claw, chew and gnaw their way on your hanging bird feeders. As a result, your feeders get damaged, torn and most probably a waste after they were done with them. Two, you cannot simply teach or tame the squirrels much like your beloved pet dogs and cats on how they should behave when to be offered with food.
Squirrels may also trample around the feeder and kill nestlings unintentionally. Some of these animals are also known to eat bird’s eggs which are a real shame if you care to think about it. On top of that, an empty feeder will surely drive away birds so the best way to deal with these problems is to have a quality squirrel proof bird feeder.
Metal cages are just one way to prevent the raccoons and chipmunks. Another way is to pole-mount your feeders instead of hanging them on windows or on tree branches. We recommend that you use a metal pole and then paint it for a finished look while preventing rust or corrosion.
Keep in mind that squirrels can jump from one point to another at a maximum distance of about six feet, depending on the size of the squirrels. As such, make sure that the location of your squirrel proof bird feeder is a bit farther than the range to where these animals may use as their launching points. Your feeders may fall off to the ground if they continue to hit it intentionally thru routine jumping exercises.
Another fail-safe way to deal with chipmunks and squirrels is to mix crushed peppers on your birds seeds. The birds will not notice them but the mammals will certainly do. Now, imagine their disgust when they have finally reached their imagined triumph.
Bird feeding is meant to be a peaceful hobby and it will be, thanks to some of wonderful and sure-fire tips on how to ensure the effectiveness of your squirrel proof bird feeder. Next time that you see squirrels and chipmunks rounding up on your feeders, you will not need to get worried. Your birds will be perfectly safe.
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