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Squirrel problems
- To: <carolinabirds@duke.edu>
- Subject: Squirrel problems
- From: "Joanne Harley" <harleyclan@coastalnet.com>
- Date: Fri, 6 Aug 1999 13:39:41 -0400
- Sender: carolinabirds-owner@acpub.duke.edu
There is a product on the market called capsaicin, which is a mixture of
very hot peppers that can be added to bird seed to discourage squirrels. It
can often be purchased at stores that cater to birdwatchers. One tip:
Spread some of the bird seed out on a tray and spray it first with something
like PAM, which will help the capsaicin stick to the seed. Otherwise, it
just filters to the bottom of the feeder. Working with it will make you
sneeze, (pepper does that).And you might want to wear gloves if you have a
cut on your hands anywhere.
You might also try something called safflower seed in feeders that are
easily reached by the squirrels. Ninety-five percent of squirrels do not
like it and will eventually leave that feeder alone. It has to be used
exclusively in the feeder and not mixed with sunflowers. There are also
feeders on the market that are surrounded by cages that only allow small
birds in. This also eliminates the squirrels.
Placing corn feeders in other parts of the yard will also attract the
squirrels to another area and away from your bird feeders.
Joanne Harley
New Bern,NC
harleyclan@coastalnet.com