Birdfeeders

Some people believe that seed treated with capsacin (extract of chile peppers) will keep the squirrels from eating bird seed. I have heard from people who have tried this that it works initially, but doesn’t take long for the squirrels to get use to it. I am also concerned because we don’t know how this might affect birds so I don’t recommend this tactic. Another possible solution that has been tried is live trapping the squirrels and transporting them to other areas. In most suburban areas, this is really an exercise in futility because while you may only have a few squirrels in your yard now, if you catch and take away the dominant individuals, it opens your yard to who knows how many weaker squirrels just waiting to get in! You could end up with more squirrels than you started with. Squirrel proof bird feeders are really the most viable solution. Whether a caged tube, a weight controlled model, or a battery operated spinner, a squirrel proof feeder is the best way to combat these smart animals.