Deterring Squirrels

It is of course Grey Squirrels we are talking about.

Deterring squirrels is a problem which few people manage to overcome. Not only can squirrels jump great distances, but they have all day to figure out how to overcome any obstacle put in their way. They are very attractive animals and some people like to see and feed them, however they can be very destructive, chewing everything that comes in their way. They also find their way into house roofs and seem to delight in chewing electric cables so here at Vine House Farm we do not recommend feeding them.

You may wish to experiment with some of the following methods of deterring them but could well have a very intelligent animal in your garden.

• ensure an eight foot jump from vegetation to feeders, to prevent squirrels jumping from trees onto feeders

• buy a squirrel proof feeder, which may include:

  • an upturned plastic cone, to prevent squirrels climbing up the pole to the feeder.
  • greasing the pole will stop some squirrels climbing the pole
  • a cage around the feeder, which allows small birds in and keeps squirrels out or allows birds to get their beaks to the food and not allowing the squirrel to get it's mouth to the feeder.
  • any of these feeders which claim to be squirrel proof will make it more difficult for the birds to feed from and if you have feeders of both types they may shun the squirrel proof ones altogether for two reasons. They will either find the food difficult to get out of the feeder or they will not feel so safe in the cage as they are unable to make such a quick get away.
  • ensure your feeders are metal rather than plastic, to prevent them being knawed by squirrels

• if you can't beat 'em, feed 'em! Special squirrel feeders and cheaper seeds can be purchased to prevent squirrels consuming your expensive wild bird mixes, and destroying your feeders.

• grey squirrels are not native to this country, they were introduced from North America. They are cited as being one of the reasons for the decline of our woodland birds.

• Squirrel Busters - These feeders, although still with their disadvantages, seem to be the most effective way we have found to stop squirrels feeding.