Here’s How to Stop Squirrels From Stealing Bird Seed

If you are the type of home owner that enjoys giving back to nature and providing bird feed and bath houses for your friendly flying neighbors, then you are familiar with the squirrel problem that’s associated with this hobby. You have to give it to them; squirrels are clever and motivated critters that can solve problems and navigate around obstacles.

This trait also gives them an advantage when it comes to stealing bird seed. They love an easy meal that’s always available. The question is, how do you get squirrels to stop stealing all the birds’ food and making huge messes in the yard? Here are some simple solutions that any homeowner can try.

Non-Toxic Squirrel Repellent Spray

This is not the friendliest way to tell squirrels to lay off the free bird seed; however, it is non-toxic and mostly effective. A squirrel repellent spray can be purchased at almost any home good store, pet store, garden shop, and online. It is an inexpensive way to deter squirrels from wanting the bird seed. The spray simply makes the bird seed taste bad to the squirrels, whereas the birds seem to not mind it at all.

Once the squirrels realize the food is no longer desirable, they will let up on stealing the feed and making messes in the yard. The spray usually goes for anywhere from $5 to $15, depending on the brand and bottle size you wish to purchase. If you are looking for a less aggressive approach, and perhaps a more entertaining one, check out the next idea.

Try Out a Squirrel Dome

This is one of the more popular choices for deterring squirrels from accessing bird houses. Much of he reason is for entertainment value! The device is a dome shape, much like a muffin top. It is to be placed over, or under the bird house, depending on the style. Bird houses that hand from a pole inserted into the ground will need the dome attached under the house. This way, squirrels cannot gain access to the house once they have climbed the pole.

If your feeder hangs from a tree, the dome will be placed over the house. Watching the squirrels try over and over again to get to the bird feed is funny and entertaining. Eventually, they will exhaust themselves, and forget about the feed altogether. You can buy these at any commercial store, market, or again, online.

Give in and Buy Some Squirrel Feed

If all else fails, you can just give into the squirrels and give them their own feed! Place a bin or bucket of peanuts and other seeds or nuts on the opposite side of the yard where the bird feeder is, and allow the squirrels to have their own feeding grounds. This will distract them away from the bird houses for good!

Call a Wildlife Control Specialist for Professional Help

If your squirrel problem is so out of control that it is affecting the structural integrity of your home, it is time to ask a professional for some advice. Contact a wildlife control company for help putting a stop to nuisance squirrel activity, safely and humanely. If you have squirrels in the attic or walls, you need professional squirrel removal service too.