Birdwatching and feeding birds can be a delightful and fulfilling hobby. However, it can also be a source of frustration when squirrels constantly raid your bird feeders and gobble up the precious mealworms intended for the feathered friends.
Squirrels are omnivorous and will eat live or dried mealworms. You can use squirrel-proof bird feeders to prevent them from stealing the mealworms you provide for birds. Better yet, feed the squirrels too.
Why Squirrels Love Mealworms
In this article, we will explore various strategies to prevent squirrels from eating mealworms for birds, including the option of feeding squirrels separately. With a little creativity and effort, you can enjoy a squirrel-free bird-feeding experience while still ensuring squirrels are well-fed.
Before diving into ways to deter squirrels, it’s essential to understand these resourceful and agile creatures. Squirrels, known for their incredible climbing and problem-solving abilities, can make it quite a challenge to keep them away from your bird feeders.
They are highly motivated to access the delicious mealworms you’ve placed out for your avian friends. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders and are particularly fond of mealworms, which are packed with protein and essential nutrients.
How to Keep Mealworms Away from Squirrels
To effectively protect your mealworms, you’ll need to use a combination of squirrel-proof tactics and perhaps even set up a separate squirrel feeding station. Let’s explore the options:
Use Squirrel-Resistant Bird Feeders
One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels from accessing your mealworms is by using squirrel-resistant bird feeders. These feeders are specially designed to thwart squirrel attempts while allowing smaller birds to enjoy their meals. Here are some features to look for when choosing a squirrel-resistant feeder:
Weight-activated mechanisms: Many squirrel-proof feeders have a weight-activated perch that closes access to the food when a squirrel’s weight is detected. Birds’ lighter weight won’t trigger the mechanism.
Caged feeders: Caged feeders feature wire mesh or bars that keep squirrels from reaching the food inside. Birds can easily slip through the openings, but squirrels will struggle to access the mealworms.
Related. How to Feed Mealworms to Birds
Baffle systems: Some feeders are equipped with baffles or domes that prevent squirrels from descending onto the feeding ports. This can be highly effective in deterring squirrels.
Place Feeders Strategically
Location matters when it comes to bird feeders. Placing feeders strategically can help minimize squirrel access. Here are some tips for optimal placement:
Suspend feeders from a pole with a squirrel baffle: A squirrel baffle is a cone-shaped or dome-like device that can be mounted on feeder poles. It prevents squirrels from climbing up to the feeders.
Keep feeders away from jumping-off points: Squirrels can jump several feet to reach a feeder. Place your feeders at least ten feet away from any structure or tree that a squirrel can jump from.
Use a pulley system: Hanging your feeders from a pulley system allows you to lower them for filling and then raise them out of the reach of squirrels. This can be a highly effective method.
Other Ways to Deter Squirrels
There are various techniques to discourage squirrels from approaching your bird feeders and enjoying the mealworms. Some of these methods are humane and safe for both birds and squirrels:
Spicy deterrents: Squirrels dislike spicy flavors, so you can try adding hot pepper to the birdseed or mealworms. You can also buy specially formulated squirrel deterrents with capsaicin that won’t harm birds.
Grease or slippery surfaces: Applying a slippery substance to the pole or feeder can make it difficult for squirrels to gain a foothold. Petroleum jelly, cooking oil, or special squirrel-grease products can be used for this purpose.
Scent deterrents: Squirrels have a keen sense of smell. Using scents they dislike, such as mint, can help keep them away from your bird feeders.
Noise deterrents: Some bird feeders are equipped with noise-making devices that startle squirrels when they approach. These can be effective at deterring them.
Feed the Squirrels Too
Squirrels are part of the ecosystem and deserve to be fed as well. By providing alternative food sources for them, you can divert their attention away from your bird feeders and mealworms. Consider creating a separate feeding station for squirrels, which can be a fun and educational addition to your backyard.
- Squirrel-friendly feeders: Invest in squirrel feeders designed specifically for these creatures. These feeders are typically larger and can hold a variety of foods, such as nuts, seeds, and corn.
- Corn cobs: Squirrels love corn, so you can place corn cobs on the ground or in a designated squirrel feeder.
- Nuts: Peanuts, walnuts, and almonds are all favorite squirrel snacks. Scatter them on the ground or use a squirrel feeder.
- Provide a water source: Don’t forget to offer fresh water for squirrels, especially in hot weather.
By giving squirrels an attractive alternative to your bird feeders, you can help maintain a balanced and harmonious environment in your backyard.
What Not to Feed Squirrels
Salted snacks: High-salt foods like potato chips, pretzels, and salted nuts can dehydrate squirrels and lead to sodium toxicity. Excessive salt intake can be harmful to their kidneys, so it’s best to steer clear of these treats.
Sugary treats: Squirrels have a natural diet that doesn’t include high levels of sugar. Feeding them sugary items like candy, cookies, or soda can lead to tooth decay and obesity. Additionally, the rapid sugar intake may disrupt their natural dietary balance.
Processed foods: Processed foods, like fast food and fried snacks, are high in unhealthy fats and artificial additives that are not suitable for squirrels. These can lead to obesity and other health issues if consumed regularly.
Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that is toxic to many animals, including squirrels. Ingesting chocolate can lead to various health problems, including diarrhea, vomiting, and even death in severe cases.
Dairy products: Squirrels are lactose intolerant, like many other animals, and they lack the enzymes needed to digest lactose properly. Feeding them dairy products such as milk, cheese, or yogurt can result in digestive issues, like diarrhea.
Spicy foods: Squirrels have sensitive taste buds, and spicy foods can be uncomfortable or even painful for them to eat. Avoid giving them spicy snacks like hot peppers or hot sauce-coated items.
Raw beans: Raw beans contain lectins and other compounds that can be harmful to squirrels. Cooking beans thoroughly is necessary to break down these compounds and make them safe for consumption.
Avocado: Avocado contains a toxin called persin, which can be harmful to squirrels if ingested in large amounts. While a small amount of avocado flesh might not be immediately harmful, it’s best to avoid it altogether.
Alcohol: Alcohol can have severe adverse effects on squirrels, including disorientation, coordination problems, and even poisoning. Never offer them alcoholic beverages.
Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
Keeping squirrels at bay requires ongoing maintenance and monitoring of your bird feeders and feeding stations. Squirrels are persistent creatures and may attempt to outsmart your safeguards. Here are some tips for regular upkeep:
Keep feeders clean: Regularly clean your bird feeders to prevent the buildup of debris and mold. This will ensure a healthy feeding environment for both birds and squirrels.
Adjust deterrents: Squirrels may adapt to your deterrents over time. Be prepared to adjust and change your tactics to stay one step ahead.
Repair any damage: Inspect your feeders and poles for any damage caused by squirrels. Repair or replace damaged parts to maintain their effectiveness.
Monitor squirrel activity: Pay attention to squirrel behavior and adjust your strategies as needed. Some days may require extra measures to keep them in check.
Conclusion
Feeding birds and watching their antics is a rewarding pastime, but the presence of squirrels can pose a challenge. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent squirrels from eating mealworms meant for birds. By choosing squirrel-resistant feeders, placing feeders strategically, and employing squirrel-repelling techniques, you can create a bird-friendly environment while deterring squirrels.
Moreover, providing squirrels with alternative food sources and a dedicated feeding station can help maintain a balanced ecosystem in your backyard. Remember that it’s essential to respect and care for all the creatures that visit your garden, whether they have feathers or fur. With a bit of effort and creativity, you can enjoy the beauty of birds while ensuring that squirrels are well-fed and content.
