Squirrel proof peanut feeders are a must-have for birdwatchers and backyard enthusiasts who want to keep squirrels away from their bird feeders. These feeders are designed with special features that prevent squirrels from accessing the peanuts, such as weight-activated closures, baffles, and slick surfaces.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of squirrel proof peanut feeders available, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
We’ll also provide step-by-step instructions for creating your own DIY squirrel proof peanut feeder. So whether you’re looking to buy or build a squirrel proof peanut feeder, this guide has everything you need to know.
Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder Design
Squirrel proof peanut feeders are designed with specific structural features to deter squirrels from accessing the peanuts inside. These features include:
- Weight-activated closures:These closures use a spring-loaded mechanism that opens when a bird lands on the perch, but closes when a squirrel tries to climb onto the feeder.
- Baffles:Baffles are cone-shaped or dome-shaped devices that are placed around the base of the feeder to prevent squirrels from climbing up the sides.
- Slick surfaces:Some squirrel proof feeders have slick surfaces that make it difficult for squirrels to grip and climb.
Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages. Weight-activated closures are very effective at preventing squirrels from accessing the peanuts, but they can also be sensitive to wind and rain, which can cause them to close prematurely. Baffles are less effective than weight-activated closures, but they are also less sensitive to the elements.
Slick surfaces are not as effective as weight-activated closures or baffles, but they are the least expensive option.
Types of Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeders
Squirrel-proof peanut feeders come in a variety of designs, each with its own unique features, materials, and price range. Choosing the right type of feeder depends on factors such as the size of your yard, the number of squirrels in your area, and your budget.
Tube Feeders
- Key Features:Tube feeders are cylindrical-shaped feeders with small holes or slits that allow birds to access the peanuts inside while keeping squirrels out.
- Materials:Tube feeders are typically made of metal, plastic, or polycarbonate.
- Price Range:$10-$50
- Pros:Tube feeders are relatively inexpensive, easy to fill and clean, and can hold a large amount of peanuts.
- Cons:Tube feeders can be difficult for some birds to access, and they can be easily knocked over by squirrels.
Hopper Feeders
- Key Features:Hopper feeders have a large, open hopper that holds the peanuts. The weight of the birds on the perch triggers a mechanism that closes the hopper, preventing squirrels from accessing the peanuts.
- Materials:Hopper feeders are typically made of metal or plastic.
- Price Range:$20-$60
- Pros:Hopper feeders are easy to fill and clean, and they can hold a large amount of peanuts. They are also less likely to be knocked over by squirrels than tube feeders.
- Cons:Hopper feeders can be more expensive than tube feeders, and they may not be suitable for small birds.
Weight-Activated Feeders
- Key Features:Weight-activated feeders have a platform that is attached to a spring. When a squirrel steps on the platform, the spring is compressed and the feeder closes, preventing the squirrel from accessing the peanuts.
- Materials:Weight-activated feeders are typically made of metal or plastic.
- Price Range:$30-$70
- Pros:Weight-activated feeders are very effective at deterring squirrels, and they can be used to feed a variety of birds.
- Cons:Weight-activated feeders can be more expensive than other types of feeders, and they may not be suitable for small birds.
Benefits of Using Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeders
Squirrel-proof peanut feeders offer numerous advantages for birdwatchers and backyard enthusiasts, making them a valuable addition to any outdoor space.
Reducing Competition for Food
Squirrels can be relentless competitors for food at bird feeders. By using squirrel-proof feeders, you can effectively reduce competition, ensuring that birds have ample access to their preferred food source.
Preventing Damage to Feeders
Squirrels are known for their destructive tendencies, often chewing on or damaging bird feeders in their attempts to access food. Squirrel-proof feeders are designed to withstand these attacks, protecting your investment and ensuring that birds have a safe place to feed.
Minimizing Bird Harassment
Squirrels can be a nuisance to birds, chasing them away from feeders and disrupting their feeding habits. Squirrel-proof feeders create a safe haven for birds, allowing them to feed peacefully without fear of harassment.
Enhancing Birdwatching and Backyard Wildlife Observation, Squirrel proof peanut feeder
By keeping squirrels away from bird feeders, squirrel-proof feeders allow birdwatchers to observe a wider variety of bird species and enjoy the beauty of their backyard wildlife without the distraction of squirrels.
DIY Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder Projects
Creating your own squirrel-proof peanut feeder is a fun and rewarding project that can save you money and provide hours of entertainment for you and your feathered friends. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Materials and Tools
- 1/2-inch thick plywood or cedar
- 1/4-inch thick hardware cloth
- 1-inch wood screws
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Wire cutters
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
Safety Precautions:
- Wear safety glasses when drilling or cutting.
- Be careful when using sharp tools.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
Instructions
- Cut two pieces of plywood or cedar to the desired size of your feeder. The size will depend on how many peanuts you want to hold.
- Cut a piece of hardware cloth to the same size as the plywood or cedar. This will be the bottom of the feeder.
- Place the hardware cloth on one of the pieces of plywood or cedar and secure it with wood screws. Make sure the screws are long enough to go through both the hardware cloth and the plywood or cedar.
- Place the other piece of plywood or cedar on top of the hardware cloth and secure it with wood screws. Make sure the screws are long enough to go through both pieces of plywood or cedar.
- Drill a hole in the top of the feeder for hanging. You can use a wire or a hook to hang the feeder.
- Fill the feeder with peanuts and enjoy watching the birds!
Tips and Tricks
- To make the feeder more squirrel-proof, you can use a smaller mesh size for the hardware cloth.
- You can also add a baffle to the feeder to make it more difficult for squirrels to climb.
- Place the feeder in a location that is difficult for squirrels to reach.
Summary
Squirrel proof peanut feeders are a great way to keep squirrels away from your bird feeders and enjoy the beauty of birds in your backyard. With so many different types of feeders available, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and budget.
So what are you waiting for? Get started today and start enjoying the benefits of squirrel proof peanut feeders.