One effective way to keep squirrels from climbing your post and accessing your bird feeder is to attach a Slinky to the pole. The Slinky acts as a deterrent by creating an unstable surface that squirrels struggle to climb.
To start, you will need a Slinky and a post that the bird feeder is mounted on. Begin by threading the post through the Slinky, making sure it is securely attached. You can use zip ties or wire to fasten the Slinky to the post if necessary.
Next, attach one end of the Slinky under the bird feeder, allowing it to drape down the post. The length of the Slinky will depend on the height of your post, but it’s important to ensure that the Slinky does not touch the ground. If it does, you can simply shorten the Slinky by adjusting its position on the post.
Now, when squirrels attempt to climb the post to reach the bird feeder, they will encounter the Slinky. As they try to grab onto the coils of the Slinky, their weight causes it to bounce and move, making it difficult for them to gain a stable foothold. This instability often results in the squirrels losing their grip and being carried back down to the ground.
By using a Slinky as a barrier, you not only prevent squirrels from reaching the bird feeder but also provide some entertainment as you watch them try to conquer the bouncy obstacle. It’s a win-win situation!
In addition to using a Slinky, there are a few other strategies you can employ to further deter squirrels from accessing your bird feeder. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Install a squirrel baffle: A squirrel baffle is a cone-shaped or dome-shaped device that can be mounted above or below the bird feeder. It creates a physical barrier that prevents squirrels from climbing up the pole or jumping down onto the feeder.
2. Use squirrel-proof feeders: Invest in bird feeders specifically designed to be squirrel-proof. These feeders often have mechanisms that close off access to the seed when a squirrel’s weight is detected, preventing them from eating the bird food.
3. Set up a squirrel feeding station: If you find that squirrels are persistent in their attempts to reach the bird feeder, consider creating a separate feeding station specifically for them. Place a squirrel-friendly feeder filled with nuts or seeds away from the bird feeder. This way, the squirrels are more likely to be content with their own food source and leave the bird feeder alone.
4. Trim nearby trees and branches: Squirrels are agile climbers and can use nearby trees or branches to jump onto the bird feeder. By trimming any overhanging branches or removing nearby trees, you eliminate these access points and make it more challenging for squirrels to reach the feeder.
Remember, it may take some trial and error to find the most effective method for keeping squirrels away from your bird feeder. Some squirrels are incredibly determined and resourceful, so don’t be discouraged if they initially find a way around your deterrents. Stay persistent and keep experimenting with different strategies until you achieve success in deterring them from climbing your post.