Squirrels are frequently seen in UK gardens, but they often cause problems at bird feeders
It’s a huge annoyance for bird lovers who fill their feeders, only to see grey squirrels easily gobble up all the seeds and fatballs. Over time, people have used various methods to outwit these quick intruders, such as applying cooking oil or even petroleum jelly on poles, hoping the squirrels will slip off before reaching the bird food.
According to government data, there are more than 2.5 million squirrels in the UK. So, what else can we do to discourage them?
Invest in squirrel-proof feeders
There are plenty available, many of which encase the food within cages too small for squirrels and larger birds like magpies and pigeons to get through.
Some are more effective than others, so make sure you buy one with a secure lid. Squirrels have been known to access the food by prising off the lid with their teeth and claws and literally climbing inside the tubular feeder.
Weighted feeders are also an option and work by shutting when something heavy, like a squirrel, lands on them. But again, make sure the squirrel cannot reach the feeder without actually resting on it.
If there are nearby branches or bushy shrubs that the squirrel can perch on, lean from, or dangle from to access the food in a weighted feeder, you might need to relocate it.
If squirrels are consistently going after a specific feeder, try removing it for a period. This will cut off their food source temporarily, encouraging them to seek other options.
Opt for food that squirrels aren’t fond of
“Not all bird food is equally attractive to squirrels. While they’ll devour sunflower seeds, peanuts and suet without a second thought, there are some options they’re less keen on,” wildlife expert Sean McMenemy, founder of bird food provider Ark Wildlife, has explained.
You may be surprised to hear this includes capsaicin-treated seed as birds can’t taste the spice but squirrels find it unbearable. Niger seeds are effective because they are too tiny and fiddly for squirrels, making them ideal for goldfinches.
Additionally, safflower seeds have a bitter taste that birds enjoy but squirrels usually avoid.
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Put feeders out of reach
Richard Green from Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, suggested: “Position feeders away from nearby trees or other surfaces that animals could use to jump on to the feeder.”
Squirrels can jump surprisingly far – usually four to five feet upwards and eight to 10 feet across from a starting point. So, place your feeders where a squirrel might attempt a leap, away from fences, trees with suitable hanging branches, and evergreen shrubs.
Don’t think that hanging a feeder from your washing line will keep them off, either. Many gardeners have witnessed them walking tightropes to reach their next meal.
Sprinkle cayenne pepper
Add a bit of cayenne pepper to the bird seed and give it a good mix. Squirrels can’t stand spice, but birds don’t have the same receptors for spicy heat.
Try natural deterrents
You can buy concentrated blends of peppermint, cinnamon, chilli, and garlic essential oils to dilute and spray around areas you want to keep squirrels away. Believe it or not, they absolutely hate the smell.
Citrus peel has also been used as a deterrent around the base of feeders, while some gardeners scatter coffee grounds or place vinegar-soaked cloths near feeding areas.
Store bird food carefully
Even if your bird food is stored in sealed, sturdy plastic containers, placing it outside in a sheltered area where squirrels can observe it may still attract them, as they often find ways to get in. Moisture can also promote mould growth on your seeds.
To be on the safe side, store it indoors in a cool, dark, dry area in a galvanised metal container with a tight lid.
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Create a separate squirrel feeding station
Providing a separate squirrel feeding station containing nuts can act as a distraction, McMenemy also suggested.
Avoid overfilling feeders
Lastly, The Wildlife Trusts advises filling feeders in small, frequent portions to stop squirrels from getting large amounts of food. This method also benefits bird health by reducing disease spread, especially when paired with regular cleaning of feeders.
“The best long-term strategy is to remove whatever is drawing squirrels to your property from the start,” McMenemy added.
It’s also worth removing other garden incentives for squirrels, too. This may involve covering vegetable patches with fine wire mesh, removing fallen fruit, and planting squirrel-repellent flowers like daffodils and alliums.
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“The big lesson is about layering many different methods instead of only one,” McMememy went on. “Combining physical barriers, scent deterrents, and feeder technology provides a first-rate all-around protection plan, one that can keep your bird paradise in service and deter squirrels.”
According to The Wildlife Trusts, providing alternative natural food, like planting oak trees that produce acorns over time, can help sustain birds during winter months instead of relying solely on bird seed.