Some tips to help you win – even enjoy – the skirmish Critters v. birdfeeders

By Nancy D. BRUNDAGE

Ohio certified volunteer naturalist

Are you having problems with “critters” at your birdfeeders?

You are not alone.

We put up a birdfeeder to enjoy the birds, only to be bothered by squirrels, raccoons and chipmunks that come to take the birdseed or suet.

Squirrels and chipmunks are the most visible to us since they are active during daylight hours, while raccoons are usually seen only after dark.

Squirrels are the biggest problem. They seem to be able to find a solution to any obstacle they encounter. They are amazing acrobats and can walk the thinnest of wires.

What I have found works best are squirrel-proof feeders. When too much weight is put on the perch under the opening, the weight causes the opening to close, and stops the squirrel from feeding.

I have two feeders for black oil sunflower seed and one for mixed nuts.

Once in a while, a squirrel will hang upside down and there is not enough weight to close the opening. Foiled again.

Here are some other deterrents to keep the squirrels off your feeders.

Provide the squirrels with their own feeding area a distance from the birdfeeders. Place cracked corn, corn cobs and cheap birdseed on the ground or on a bench. The squirrels will use this area where food is easier to obtain.

Remove branches over hanging feeders. Make sure limbs are no closer than 8 feet, and 6 feet off the ground.

Hang feeders high enough so the squirrel cannot jump on the feeder. This is a problem for me as I am short and need to be able to reach the feeders to fill them. I believe my black squirrels wear Air Jordan sneakers, as they can bend their legs and leap right up to the feeder.

Use squirrel baffles. If you are using a pole feeder, place a cylindrical tube on the pole. If you have a hanging feeder, place a cone shaped baffle above the feeder.

Try safflower seeds; squirrels do not like them. If you mix other things with safflower seeds, they will sort out the good stuff, though. A bonus is that house sparrows and starlings aren’t fans either.

Even though we don’t like squirrels eating the “good” birdseed, it is fun to watch their antics trying to get the food.

Raccoons are not as fun. They can be a big problem. Not only will they eat the seed, they will also steal the feeder. I have my feeders attached with a “quick link” that locks to keep the feeder in place.

If a bear is seen, take down your feeders or you’ll never see them again.

Chipmunks are not a big problem with feeders, but they will dig out your bulbs and dig in your annual containers. They will take bird food from the ground. You can place a tray under the tube feeder to catch seed from falling to the ground.

To learn how to deal with wildlife challenges, visit http://go.osu.edu/wildlifechallenges.