Having a bird feeder is a great way to attract more birds to your yard so you can observe them and enjoy their natural beauty. Unfortunately, bird feeders attract more than just birds! Squirrels are one of the few outdoor critters that have the agility to get close enough to your bird feeders to eat out of them. Let’s discuss why that’s such a bad thing and what you can do to avoid it! 

The Risks of Squirrels Around Your Bird Feeders

Squirrels around your bird feeders means squirrels closer to your home. Squirrels are known to find weak spots in your roof, around the chimney, and even around the basement windows where they can work their way into your home. Squirrels can nest in the drywall or insulation of your home. This can lead to annoying noises and expensive damages to your electric lines. Keeping squirrels away from your bird feeders is important for the safety of your home. 

Keep Feeders Away from Trees

Feeders that are located close to trees are more likely to get invaded by squirrels. Squirrels commonly live in or around trees and can use the branches as leverage to get closer to the feeder. By moving the feeders away from trees, you’re instantly lowering the risk of squirrels getting into the feeders. 

Apply Repellent to the Feeder

Squirrel repellent is available in spray bottles that you can spray directly around the feeder and even onto the base of the feeder. These sprays cause no harm to birds and won’t keep them from enjoying a tasty treat out of the feeder. Squirrel repellent sprays are pepper based, so they won’t cause any lasting damage to the squirrels either. 

Give Squirrels Their Own Food 

If the squirrels in your yard are persistent, you can try giving them their own food. Be sure to place this food far enough away from your home that they won’t be tempted to climb on the roof or down the chimney. Squirrels love cracked corn mixtures that you can buy by the bagful, probably at the same place you buy your bird food! 

If you’re battling squirrels in or around your home, it’s best to contact a professional. An experienced professional will have the tools and knowledge to safely remove squirrels from the home. They can also take steps to prevent future squirrels in the home. If you believe there’s squirrels in your home, contact Baystate Wildlife today! We can help identify and remove any squirrels in the home. If there’s no squirrels in the home yet, our experienced team can take preventative measures to ensure your home’s roof and exterior is protected against these annoying pests. For squirrel removal in Canton, MA and other surrounding towns, give us a call at 781-390-4732.