Bird Feeders

We find that the quickest way to get the local crowd interested in your Bird Feeders is to offer a high-quality menu. Starting with black oil sunflower seeds is a safe bet, as the high fat content is a favorite for almost everyone with feathers. We also suggest putting out a fresh bowl of water nearby, since a good drink or a quick bath is just as tempting as a free meal. If your Bird Feeders sit empty for a few days, do not fret. It takes a little time for the neighborhood scouts to find the new spot, but once one bird moves in, the rest usually follow the noise to see what the fuss is about.

We like to tuck our Bird Feeders in a level, open area where the ground stays relatively dry. A spot with a clear “flight corridor” allows birds to come and go without navigating a maze of patio furniture or laundry lines. It is also a smart move to place Bird Feeders near a water source, like a birdbath, to create a one-stop shop for your backyard visitors. Just make sure you can see the spot from your favorite porch chair, because there is no point in hosting a party if you cannot watch the guests enjoy the spread.

It might feel like a losing battle, but keeping squirrels away from your Bird Feeders mostly comes down to outsmarting their physics. A sturdy pole mount with a smooth surface is much harder for them to grip compared to a wooden fence post or a rough tree trunk. We have also had good luck with specialized weight-sensitive Bird Feeders that simply shut the pantry door when a heavy squirrel steps on the perch. If you are feeling a bit mischievous, you can try adding some cayenne pepper to the seed mix. Birds cannot taste the heat, but it gives the squirrels a spicy surprise that discourages them from coming back for seconds.