![]() ![]() You can make a squirrel feeder yourself if you’re crafty, or purchase one that’s ready to hang. Why not hang the most entertaining squirrel feeder possible? After all, these dexterous rodents are much more welcome backyard visitors when their setting is as whimsical as their antics. While most squirrel feeders feature simple designs-the two most common configurations are a basic platform or a small box, often with a lift-up lid to keep the food inside dry-you are definitely not limited to those options. Squirrel feeder designs can be entertaining. The more difficult it is to access the birdseed, the likelier that the squirrels will stick with their own offerings. Choose squirrel-resistant bird feeders, or use baffles or other squirrel repellents on your bird feeders. Help keep squirrels in their own space by hanging their feeders at least 20 feet away from any backyard bird feeders. ![]() Hanging your squirrel feeder too close to your bird feeders is like holding out a piece of candy to a toddler it’s nearly guaranteed that your furry guests won’t be able to resist, and will soon be dining at both the bird feeder and their own designated feeder, defeating the purpose of separate feeders. Most of the foods enjoyed by wild birds, including nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, also appeal to squirrels. One of the biggest-and admittedly, most deserved-complaints regarding squirrels in the backyard is that they voraciously devour the contents of your bird feeders. Keep the squirrel feeder away from the birds. Pieces of raw carrot, broccoli, squash, green peas, and leafy greens are also healthy, tasty options. Put out chunks of raw apples, grapes, melons, or berries, but stay away from citrus, which squirrels typically shun. These are generally highly appreciated and are a healthy treat. You also can feed squirrels bits of fruits and vegetables. Still, an occasional dried corncob is a tasty treat, and it’s fun to watch your guest adroitly maneuver the corncob for optimal nibbling. Squirrels also love eating dried corn, although admittedly it doesn’t offer much nutritional value. If you do feed peanuts, make sure they are unsalted and roasted-raw peanuts can harbor a mold that’s toxic to squirrels. ![]() Instead, fill your squirrel feeder with raw, unsalted walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, or filberts, preferably still in the shell. Start with a mixture of nuts, but go easy on the peanuts while squirrels undeniably love peanuts, they aren’t the healthiest choice. You’ll find a variety of commercial squirrel mixes, but it’s easy to create your own. Squirrels aren’t especially picky eaters, but it’s best to stick with nutritious offerings for your bushy-tailed visitors. ![]()
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