July 10, 2025
While we appreciate all backyard wildlife, our main mission is to support wild birds and the people who love them. These tools and tips will help you enjoy birdwatching—without your seed becoming an all-you-can-eat squirrel buffet. If you’ve ever set out a feeder only to watch a squirrel stage a full-blown acrobatic heist, you’re not alone. Squirrels are clever and persistent when it comes to stealing birdseed. But with the right tools and tricks, you can enjoy a busy bird feeder—without the squirrel drama.
Tools That Work
At the Los Gatos Birdwatcher, we carry a few squirrel solutions that actually live up to their promises:
- Squirrel Buster Feeders: These clever feeders are weight-sensitive and automatically shut off access when a squirrel climbs on—while remaining open for birds.
- Hot Pepper Seed Cakes and Suet: Birds can’t taste capsaicin, but squirrels sure can. These spicy cakes are a natural deterrent.
- Squirrel Guards & Baffles: Proper placement and physical barriers can stop squirrels before they even get close.
Placement Is Key
Keep feeders at least 10 feet away from launch points like trees, fences, or rooftops, and about 5 feet off the ground. Use poles with smooth baffles or dome-shaped guards underneath to prevent climbing. We’ve put together a Squirrel Solutions Tip Sheet with more ways to keep the peace in your yard.
Click here to view the tipsheet….
Stop by Los Gatos Birdwatcher to explore our squirrel-proof solutions and keep your feeders full of birds, not bandits
While we appreciate all backyard wildlife, our main mission is to support wild birds and the people who love them. These tools and tips will help you enjoy birdwatching—without your seed becoming an all-you-can-eat squirrel buffet. If you’ve ever set out a feeder only to watch a squirrel stage a full-blown acrobatic heist, you’re not alone. Squirrels are clever and persistent when it comes to stealing birdseed. But with the right tools and tricks, you can enjoy a busy bird feeder—without the squirrel drama.
Tools That Work
At the Los Gatos Birdwatcher, we carry a few squirrel solutions that actually live up to their promises:
- Squirrel Buster Feeders: These clever feeders are weight-sensitive and automatically shut off access when a squirrel climbs on—while remaining open for birds.
- Hot Pepper Seed Cakes and Suet: Birds can’t taste capsaicin, but squirrels sure can. These spicy cakes are a natural deterrent.
- Squirrel Guards & Baffles: Proper placement and physical barriers can stop squirrels before they even get close.
Placement Is Key
Keep feeders at least 10 feet away from launch points like trees, fences, or rooftops, and about 5 feet off the ground. Use poles with smooth baffles or dome-shaped guards underneath to prevent climbing. We’ve put together a Squirrel Solutions Tip Sheet with more ways to keep the peace in your yard.
Click here to view the tipsheet….
Stop by Los Gatos Birdwatcher to explore our squirrel-proof solutions and keep your feeders full of birds, not bandits