If seeing squirrels around your bird feeders drives you nuts, you’re not alone.
When these crafty little critters want something, they can be very persistent. They’ll chew through barriers or jump 4 feet high just to snatch your bird feed.
If you want to watch wildlife in your backyard in peace, you need a squirrel proof bird feeder.
A proper bird feeder won’t just keep these pesky bird food robbers away but will do a great job of attracting birds to your backyard. Here are the 10 best squirrel proof bird feeders on the market.
Our Pick: [amazon link=”B00ABGSX4S” title=”Brome Squirrel Buster Classic” /]
Features
- Chew proof
- Lifetime care warranty
- Weight adjustable
Contents
Squirrel-X Double Suet Feeder
[amazon fields=”B003NTGXF6″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Squirrel-X Double Suet Feeder” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Dual-layer metal cage
- 10-inch diameter
- Steel lid
Making an effort to pick the best bird feeder is not always enough. Bird feeding is quite an art form. You need to find the right spot for the bird feeder and pick the right seeds.
You also need to protect it from harm, even if it’s squirrel proof. For those who are new to bird feeding, Squirrel-X can help decrease the learning curve.
This is one of the most user-friendly squirrel proof feeders out there. It offers a reliable defense against squirrels and comes with an easy-to-use loading cage.
It’s not a particularly big squirrel proof feeder, but it’s super affordable, so if you want to feed more birds, buying a few of them won’t cost you much.
Maintenance and refills come easy. You can quickly refill the bird feeder as it uses seed cakes and suet. You won’t have to waste time on the usual upkeep.
It’s ideal for suet-loving birds such as woodpeckers. Instead of weight-activated protection, the Squirrel-X features a dual-layer metal cage, so larger creatures won’t be able to squeeze inside.
You won’t have to worry about critters chewing their way in as the squirrel proof bird feeder comes with a solid steel lid.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Small
[amazon fields=”B003NTGXF6″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Perky-Pet 336 Squirrel-Be-Gone
[amazon fields=”B000SP2JLU” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Perky-Pet 336 Squirrel-Be-Gone” image_align=”center”]
Features
- 2 lb capacity
- Powder-coated finish
- 6 feeding ports
The Perky-Pet Squirrel-be-Gone offers a great layer of protection against would-be-invaders. Its highly-functional metal cage comes with a classic, rustic look that will complement every yard.
The bird feeder features a caged barrier that only allows birds to get through. There’s no way the squirrels are able to chew through the steel baffle.
Aside from helping protect the feed, the leaf design blends well with the environment. The bird feeder features a weight-activated mechanism that shuts off the dispenser.
With its U-shaped perches and 6 feeding ports, this squirrel proof bird feeder is sure to attract many species of birds to your yard. The seamless design of the weight-activated protection mechanism allows the birds to access the feed easily.
Despite being a budget option, this is one of the most durable squirrel proof bird feeders. If it falls to the ground, the seed chamber will withstand shock.
Pros
- Rust-proof
- Durable
- Attractive design
Cons
- Difficult to clean
[amazon fields=”B000SP2JLU” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Brome Squirrel Buster Classic
[amazon fields=”B00ABGSX4S” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Brome Squirrel Buster Classic” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Lifetime care warranty
- Seed ventilation system
- Weight adjustable
The Squirrel Buster Classic allows you to easily place a good supply of bird feed. To make sure no squirrels snatch the seed, Brome has equipped this squirrel proof bird feeder with a variety of safety measures.
No birdwatcher wants to hurt these furry thieves, we just want to chase them away. This bird feeder is a great choice for you if you want to avoid those motorized tools that fling the squirrels away.
The Squirrel Buster Classic is simple yet brilliant. It uses the squirrel’s own weight to deprive it of its loot.
When it climbs on the squirrel proof bird feeder, the cage slides down to shut off the ports. The weight mechanism is adjustable, so even if the squirrels in your area are particularly small, they won’t be causing you any trouble.
This also allows you to prevent bigger birds from feeding. The Squirrel Buster classic caters to both clinging and perching birds.
You can remove the perches if you want to attract clinging birds only. Even after the bird feeder has been exposed to the sun and rain for a long time, the color won’t fade as it has been UV tested.
The metal construction won’t just last longer, but it will prevent squirrels from chewing through the feeder.
The only drawback of the Squirrel Buster Classic is the fact that it’s a bit hard to clean and refill. But considering how many good qualities this squirrel proof bird feeder has, it’s certainly no deal-breaker.
Pros
- Lifetime care
- Durable
- Doesn’t harm squirrels
Cons
- Hard to refill and clean
[amazon fields=”B00ABGSX4S” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Perky-Pet 338 Squirrel-Be-Gone II
[amazon fields=”B07R8V52Q3″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Perky-Pet 338 Squirrel-Be-Gone II” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Adjustable spring
- Pole mount or hang
- Removable roof peak with lock
When it comes to squirrel proof bird feeders, Perky-Pet is a trusted, well-known brand. The 338 Squirrel-Be-Gone II is a weight-activated bird feeder that is great for attracting birds thanks to its red color.
Cardinals love it the most. It uses a push-down mechanism to keep the squirrels out. The bar also serves as a perch.
Filling it is a piece of cake—all you need to do is remove the roof. The roof even comes with a cute weathervane.
The Squirrel-Be-Gone II can hold up to 8 lb of bird feed. However, it’s best not to hang it as you don’t want to give easy access to the squirrels.
It does a better job of deterring squirrels as a pole feeder. Most birdwatchers love the fact that birds can access it from only one side.
As the birdies have no choice but to land on the front, it allows you to observe them without any obstruction.
Pros
- Weatherproof
- Beautiful design
- Easy refills
Cons
- Only works on poles
[amazon fields=”B07R8V52Q3″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Brome SS200 Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder
[amazon fields=”B00AUFIQ1U” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Brome Squirrel Solution200 Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Lifetime care warranty
- 6 ports
- Free seed funnel
Because it has 6 ports, the SS200 can attract more birds than most other squirrel proof feeders out there. You won’t even have to worry about damages as it comes with a lifetime care plan.
Squirrels don’t stand a chance against its metal construction. Since witty squirrels may try to bend the exposed metal parts, the manufacturer has designed the metal cage to be pretty thick. There really are no cheap parts with the SS200.
Similar to other Brome squirrel proof feeders, the SS200 keeps the squirrels out with a weight-activated shroud. The moment a squirrel jumps on the feeder, it slides down to shut off all 6 ports.
The seed funnel makes refilling super easy. Even if it rains heavily, you don’t have to worry about too much water getting in. The seeds will stay fresh and mold-free.
Although it can accommodate many species of birds, the perches may not be big enough for bigger birds to sit comfortably. They may cling to the cage when trying to feed.
Pros
- Lifetime service warranty
- Sturdy
- Free seed funnel
Cons
- Small perches
[amazon fields=”B00AUFIQ1U” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
More Birds X-4
[amazon fields=”B011HY39K0″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”More Birds X-4″ image_align=”center”]
Features
- 4.2 lb capacity
- 4 ports
- 2 weight-activated protection mechanisms
This feeder can provide feed for birds for days on end with its 4-pound seeder capacity. The construction is transparent which makes it easy to tell when the feeder needs a refill.
And the wide mouth makes refills easy. The More Birds X-4 is not your standard weight-activated feeder. It features two weight-activated protection mechanisms that prevent squirrels from accessing the feed.
The top mechanism closes the ports when squirrels hop on the top of the feeder by pushing the closing clips down. And when the squirrels climb the perches, they lower down and close the ports.
The new version of the More Birds X-4 comes with new and improved metal closers. They are quite sturdy, so they’ll survive if the feeder falls down. Although refilling the feeder doesn’t require much effort, cleaning it is not as easy as it could be.
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Metal clips, closers, and lid
- Transparent cage
Cons
- Cleaning can be tricky
[amazon fields=”B011HY39K0″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Woodlink Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder
[amazon fields=”B000667W4A” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Woodlink Absolute II Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder Model 7536″ image_align=”center”]
Features
- Seed saver baffle
- Adjustable weight setting
- 12 lb capacity
With its 12-pound capacity, the Absolute II squirrel proof feeder is perfect for those who prefer “set it and forget it” arrangements. You should be able to go between 1 and 4 weeks without refilling it.
This feeder will likely last you a lifetime, thanks to its powder-coated steel construction. You can rest assured that squirrels won’t be able to bend it or chew through it.
It comes with an adjustable weight mechanism, which is both a perk and a drawback in this case. If you don’t set it right, it might not work on some squirrels.
Just to be safe, you can always adjust the lever to the lightest weight.
The Woodlink comes with a squirrel proof bird feeder pole and a metal hanger. No matter how you want to install it, you won’t need to buy any extra accessories.
Pros
- Durable
- Comes with pole mount and metal hanger
- Fits enough feed for 1 to 4 weeks
Cons
- Weight adjustment can be tricky
[amazon fields=”B000667W4A” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Roamwild Wild Bird Feeder
[amazon fields=”B0191QWWI6″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Roamwild PestOff Squirrel Proof Wild Bird Feeder” image_align=”center”]
Features
- 3 lb capacity
- Large bird proof
- Spring-loaded perches
The Roamwild wild bird feeder is a tube feeder designed to attract smaller birds. It effectively protects the feed from squirrels (big and small), raccoons, and large birds.
The previous version of this squirrel proof bird feeder included a plastic component, but the manufacturer replaced it with metal to make it 100%. Now, the feeder features an all-metal top and bottom and a transparent tube. It’s easy to tell when it needs a refill. So if you think that this is the best feeder for you, make sure you get the newest version.
Its round design might make it look otherwise, but the feeder can be accessed only through two ports. It utilizes a slide down perch to prevent squirrels from stealing the seeds.
The Roamwild PestOff is very easy to use and install. Since it’s only supposed to feed smaller birds, there are no weight adjustments.
The construction is rustproof, waterproof, and weatherproof. It does a great job of keeping the seeds fresh, dry, and mold-free. This is particularly important as wet seeds can easily clog a weight-activated feeder.
Pros
- Weatherproof and waterproof
- Great for feeding small birds
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Not so easy to clean
[amazon fields=”B0191QWWI6″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Perky-Pet 8504-2 Wilderness Lantern
[amazon fields=”B08SXR4RC5″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Perky-Pet 8504-2 Wilderness Lantern” image_align=”center”]
Features
- 2 lbs capacity
- U-shaped adjustable perches
- Patented sure-lock cap
When your primary mission is to chase off squirrels, it’s easy to forget about the decorative aspect of a bird feeder.
The Perky-Pet Wilderness Lantern also acts as a focal point to the outside or a decorative addition to your yard. Aside from protecting the feed from squirrels, it adds something unique to your backyard decor.
With its 2-lb capacity, it’s the perfect choice for those looking for something small and decorative. But don’t let the looks deceive you—this feeder offers ample security.
In combination with the locking cap, the metal wilderness cutouts are designed to keep the squirrels out. To keep the seeds secure, the cap locks in place.
Since the feeder features a durable metal construction, you won’t have to worry about squirrels chewing through it. However, while refilling it is easy, the cleaning can get a bit tricky.
Pros
- Beautiful, decorative design
- Durable metal construction
- Adjustable perches
Cons
- Cleaning can be tricky
[amazon fields=”B08SXR4RC5″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Brome Squirrel Buster Plus
[amazon fields=”B07XTXL72L” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Brome Squirrel Buster Plus” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Lifetime care
- Cardinal ring
- Adjustable weight mechanism
If you want to attract more birds, having a feeder with multiple ports is great. But ports also pose a security risk.
The Brome Plus allows you to feed more birds without the worry of invaders stealing the feed.
The feeder features weight-activated shroud and chew-proof construction that help fend of small and resourceful squirrels.
It even comes with a ring that allows you to attract cardinals. You don’t need any tools to set it up; assembly is quite easy.
The Squirrel Buster plus has a great ventilation system that helps keep the seeds fresh.
Like all other Brome feeders, the Squirrel Buster also comes with a lifetime care warranty. In case something gets broken, you can count on Brome’s customer care.
The only major downside of the Squirrel Buster is the spillage. When the birds fly away from the feeder after having their fill, some seeds fall to the ground.
Pros
- Cardinal ring
- Great ventilation
- Easy assembly
Cons
- There is some spillage
[amazon fields=”B07XTXL72L” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
A feeder may be good for fending off squirrels but still terrible for feeding birds. To make sure you get a feeder that is both secure and functional, pay special attention to the following features:
Durability
Accidents happen quite often with bird feeders. Sometimes, all it takes is a few clumsy birds or a small gush of wind to knock it down. And the internet is full of videos of wild bears toying with squirrel proof bird feeders.
There’s not much you can do to make sure that never happens. This is why you need to pay special attention to the material and the enclosure.
You need a feeder that will survive a fall. If you plan on hanging it high, it’s best to get one with a thick metal construction. It may be more difficult to clean or refill, but it will last you much longer.
Capacity
Bird feeders come in all shapes and sizes. Unless you want to refill your squirrel proof bird feeder a couple of times a day, you should get one with a capacity of at least 2 lb.
But in case there’s a lot of bird traffic in your neighborhood, getting a 5-lb squirrel proof bird feeder is your safest bet. And if you’re often away from home for a few days, but still want to make sure the birds get their fill, bigger feeders such as the Woodlink may be your best option.
Ventilation and Rain Protection
The seeds should stay as fresh as possible. Wet and moldy seeds don’t just taste awful, but they may clog the port or mechanism.
To make sure the seeds are protected from water and mold, get a feeder with good ventilation. Also, look for a feeder that will shield the feed from rain and other elements.
Tips for Keeping Squirrels Away
Even the best squirrel feeder has its vulnerabilities. A squirrel proof bird feeder prevents invaders from stealing the feed, but it won’t stop them from trying.
There are a few extra steps you can take to make sure squirrels won’t mess with your bird feed.
- Use [amazon link=”B0121QNXYK” title=”spicy seeds” /]. Birds and squirrels taste things differently. Birds don’t mind the taste of flaming peppers while mammals indeed do. If the squirrels manage to grab a few seeds, they won’t come back for a second helping.
- Hang a bar of [amazon link=”B000KTB19K” title=”Irish Spring soap” /] in your yard. Some birdwatchers swear by it. Supposedly, squirrels hate the smell of the soap so much they don’t want to go anywhere near it.
- If you plan on hanging your feeder, use a spinning hook. The feeder will spin the squirrels off as soon as they land on it.
- Bribe the squirrels. Perhaps one of the best ways to stop the squirrels from stealing the bird food is to give them what they want. You can install a [amazon link=”B000GE52S0″ title=”squirrel feeder” /] nearby and fill it with the right food to feed squirrels in your backyard.
Conclusion
Squirrels are smart and resourceful creatures. As much as they are cute, they’ll take all the fun out of your bird watching it they keep stealing your bird feed.
A Squirrel proof bird feeder may cost a few bucks more than a regular or DIY feeder, but you can count on it to outwit those little fuzzy thieves.
Check also proven methods how to keep birds off the porch.
