How to stop squirrels from eating all of your bird food

4 min read
Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

Squirrels are clever, agile, and amazingly persistent. While we’re all for sharing the garden with wildlife, it can be frustrating when you’ve stocked up your feeders for the birds and find them emptied by squirrels before the robins and blue tits have had a look in.

Squirrels aren't doing anything wrong - they're just being squirrels. But if they’re dominating your bird table or scaring off smaller birds, there are some effective ways to gently discourage them.

How can I stop squirrels eating the bird food?

If you have asked yourself this question, you are definitely not alone. It is one of the most common problems faced by people feeding birds, especially in urban or semi rural gardens. The good news is that with a few simple changes, you can reduce squirrel activity without using anything harsh or harmful.

Try a genuinely squirrel proof bird feeder

There is a big difference between an average product labelled as a 'squirrel proof bird feeder' and one that actually works. Believe me, in the quest for a squirrel proof feeder that actually works, I really have tried them all. I look for strong materials that are resistant to chewing, clever designs that close access to the food when a heavier animal arrives, and feeding ports that react to pressure.

We recommend the Squirrel Buster as one of the best squirrel proof feeders for a typical garden. It closes access to seed when a squirrel climbs on and is made from chew resistant materials. It is a favourite with our customers and a great long term investment.

Another great option is the Starling Resistant Defender Feeder. This has a tough outer cage that keeps out both squirrels and larger birds, giving smaller birds a better chance to feed undisturbed.

Use barriers to keep squirrels away from feeders

You can add a baffle above or below the feeder. These are dome or cone shaped guards that make it difficult for squirrels to climb or drop down. Also, position your feeders carefully - even the Squirrel Buster won't work if it's placed too close to somewhere a squirrel can rest his weight while raiding your feeder. If you've ever spent some time watching your bird feeder, you'll know how far a squirrel can jump. Squirrels are impressive jumpers and can launch themselves across gaps if they have a solid take off point. A little extra distance can make all the difference.

Try to place your feeder:

At least five feet above the ground

Around seven feet away from fences, trees or sheds

Away from overhanging branches that squirrels could jump from

If you're positioning the Squirrel Buster, ensure the feeding pole bracket measures at least 16-18", which is enough distance from the pole to prevent squirrels from bypassing the mechanism.

Keep the area clean

It’s tempting to let seed fall naturally, but scattered food on the ground attracts more than just birds. Clearing up debris underneath feeders or using a tidy tray attachment can go a long way towards making the area less appealing to opportunistic squirrels.

Add a little chilli to your bird food

Birds are not sensitive to chilli but squirrels definitely are. You can stir a little chilli or capsicum through your A Little Bird Co. Seasonal Bird Food blend to prevent squirrels from eating the lot.

Keep this away from pets and avoid using too much. You want just enough to make the squirrels think twice without irritating any other garden visitors.

Give squirrels a feeder of their own

You might find that a separate feeding station with a few peanuts or shelled corn keeps the squirrels occupied. If it is placed far enough away from your bird feeders, it can act as a distraction and stop them from interfering.

It is not a guaranteed fix, but for some gardens it works really well and helps everyone get along.

Try a rope or wire suspension

Hanging your feeder from a thin rope or wire stretched between two fixed points can make it much harder for squirrels to access. If the line is long enough and has no stable launching point nearby, most squirrels will struggle to keep their balance or simply give up. It is a simple and inexpensive trick that works best when combined with a smooth pole or baffle system underneath.

Avoid sticky or greasy deterrents

It might be tempting to smear petroleum jelly or cooking oil on poles to stop squirrels climbing, but these substances can harm their fur and may affect birds too. Greasy treatments can also make a mess in your garden and may wash into the soil. A better option is to stick to smooth, clean materials like metal poles or to use a proper baffle to block access without causing harm.

Be consistent

It is tempting to keep switching methods if something does not work right away - I feel your frustration, believe me. But often, it takes a week or two for squirrels to get the message. Choose one or two methods and stick with them. You are far more likely to see a result if you give it time.

Squirrels may not be the guests you had in mind, but they are part of the garden’s wildlife too. The aim is not to get rid of them completely, but to make sure there is enough space for the birds you are hoping to attract.

If you need help choosing a squirrel proof bird feeder or want advice on what might work in your garden, feel free to get in touch. We are always happy to help.

Clare Cahill

Thank you for reading!

Clare Cahill is an bird enthusiast with a passion for observing and learning. While she definitely doesn’t have a formal degree in ornithology, Clare has dedicated hours to reading birding books and exploring nature, constantly expanding her knowledge and deepening her love for wildlife.

For Clare, birdwatching brings a sense of calm and connection to the world, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. She believes that the more we connect with nature, the more we can do to protect and conserve it. Through her writing, Clare hopes to inspire others to take a moment to pause, look up, and appreciate the calm and connection that comes from letting a little wildness into our everyday lives.

About A Little Bird Co.

The seasonal bird food brand

We're a little company, supporting little birds. Find out more about what sets us apart.

  • What to feed the birds in summer

    Seasonal

    Birds have different dietary needs throughout the year, from nesting to moulting and surviving colder months. To support these changes, we’ve created seasonal blends – order a Seasonal Bird Food bag, and we’ll adjust the blend to match the season, making it easy to do something great for the birds.

  • Sustainable

    Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We don't farm, process, and transport cheap filler ingredients that birds simply kick to the floor. Instead, we focus on premium ingredients they love. Our packaging is compostable, and our bird feeders and nest boxes are tested for durability and longevity.

  • Songbird

    We design our food and select our range of feeders with little birds in mind. Every ingredient in our blends is chosen because small birds love it, simplifying your bird feeding routine. Our feeders provide safe access to food while helping to keep out larger, more dominant species. Look out for robins, blue tits, wrens, finches and more visiting your garden for our food.

  • Support

    With birds in your garden, you’re never alone - they’re the friends who always visit. Feeding them supports wildlife conservation while bringing joy and calm. Whether spotting a new species or simply watching their daily routines, just ten minutes a day strengthens your connection with nature and boosts your wellbeing.

When life feels busy, the birds keep it simple.

There’s something lovely about how feeding the birds becomes part of the rhythm of your day. A scoop of seed, a clean dish of water - and then a pause, just to watch who turns up. It doesn’t have to take long, but those moments can be surprisingly grounding. A little burst of mindfulness, fresh air, a chance to notice your garden as it changes throughout the seasons, and the cheerful flutter of wings - it’s good for the soul.

Join our flock of bird enthusiasts who share a passion for sustainable and thoughtful bird feeding.

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