What is eating my suet at night? Well, it could be a variety of critters, not just birds. The strong scent of the fat in suet can be quite enticing to mammals as well. So, if you’re finding your suet disappearing overnight, you might want to consider some of these potential culprits.
1. Squirrels: These acrobatic little creatures are notorious for raiding bird feeders, including suet feeders. They have no problem climbing trees, poles, or even hanging upside down to get their paws on some tasty suet. Squirrels are quite intelligent and persistent, so they can be quite a challenge to keep away from your feeders.
2. Raccoons: These nocturnal animals are known for their resourcefulness and dexterity. They can easily access suet feeders and devour the contents. Raccoons are particularly skilled at opening latches or removing lids, so even if you have a supposedly squirrel-proof feeder, they may still find a way in.
3. Rats: Unfortunately, rats are also attracted to the smell and taste of suet. They can climb walls, pipes, and even jump significant distances to reach a feeder. If you suspect rats are the culprits, it’s important to address the issue promptly, as they can multiply quickly and become a bigger problem.
4. Skunks: These nocturnal creatures may also be drawn to suet if they are in your area. Skunks are excellent diggers, so they might try to access the suet from below by digging under the feeder. They have a keen sense of smell and can be quite determined when it comes to finding food.
5. Deer and bears: In some regions, larger mammals like deer or bears may be attracted to the scent of suet. If you live in an area with a significant wildlife presence, it’s important to take precautions to avoid attracting these animals, as they can cause damage to feeders or become a safety concern.
To deter these critters from raiding your suet feeders, here are a few tips:
– Install a baffle: A baffle is a physical barrier that can be placed above or below the feeder to prevent animals from climbing up or reaching in. Consider using a squirrel baffle or a raccoon baffle, depending on the main offenders in your area.
– Choose a specialized feeder: Look for suet feeders that are specifically designed to be squirrel-proof. These feeders often have cages or mechanisms that make it difficult for squirrels or other larger animals to access the suet.
– Opt for a hanging feeder: Hanging feeders can be more challenging for mammals to access, as they are not as easily reached from nearby structures or branches. Just make sure the hanging mechanism is sturdy and not within jumping distance from any surfaces.
– Use hot pepper suet: Some birds can tolerate the spiciness of hot pepper suet, but mammals, including squirrels and raccoons, tend to dislike it. Consider using suet with added chili pepper or capsaicin as a deterrent.
– Secure the feeder: Ensure that the suet feeder is securely fastened or hung in a way that animals cannot knock it down or easily dislodge it.
It’s important to note that no method is entirely foolproof when it comes to deterring determined critters. Different regions and situations may require unique strategies to keep unwanted visitors away. So, be prepared to experiment and adapt your approach if needed.