As a bird owner, I know how annoying it is to see how my birds have to compromise their eating portions because some squirrels try to take away their food. The squirrels learned how to get inside via the bird place feeder and they sneak in to eat the seeds that are meant for the birds.
Now, there is a great innovation called squirrel baffles. The best squirrel baffles are great tools to block off the entry where the squirrels pass through to get to the bird feeder. Because squirrels can jump, these contraception devices are able to stop the attempts of any squirrel to climb up the bird pole feeder or by directly jumping down onto the bird feeder.
I believe that all bird owners have to know a thing or two about squirrel baffles for hanging bird feeders. By having at least one baffle, you can now protect your birdcage from other animals that may harm them and cause them discomfort.
By investing in a baffle, you will never have to worry about spilling and litter caused by the bird seeds. A squirrel baffle helps in containing the bird seeds within the tall feeder as a way to protect it from animals and from inclement and windy weather conditions.
Contents
Best Squirrel Baffles Reviews
1. Woodlink NABAF18 Audubon Squirrel Baffles
One of the main problems when looking after some birds is that we encounter some squirrels that are persistently eating the birds’ seeds! Luckily, one of the best ways to stop this problem is by investing in a good quality baffle such as this one. This cone is extremely well-built. Indeed, the installation process was super easy, and it has some weight to it. This only means that squirrels would not have the chance to move it around and make their way into the bird feeder.
In the same way, this amazing baffle is a great tool to stop squirrels from jumping into the bird feeder. As I’ve observed, this baffle does its job pretty well. It opens up so that it can wrap around the bird feeder pole, and you can place it around two poles, side by side. You can have more options for hooks where you can hang the bird feeder that is now squirrel proof.
What I love about this squirrel baffle is that it does not allow any squirrel to wander around and get inside the pole of the bird feeder. I like its cool design too since it is designed with solid black color. In my opinion, this is the best and most effective solution for my squirrel problem. It helps make my work become easier and convenient.
On the other hand, this baffle seems slightly large for some poles. Just like in my case, my pole was quite thin for the baffle. But, fortunately, I was able to fix this by inserting a chopstick right in the middle of its coupler and pole. Now, my squirrel baffle is safely and securely locked right in place.
- The installation process was super easy
- It opens up so that it can wrap around the bird feeder pole
- You can place it around two poles, side by side
- Heavy and well-built design
- Kind of big for some poles but this can be fixed
I can safely say that this woodlink squirrel baffle is effective! It is easy to install and has a high quality feel to it.
2. iPrimio Deluxe Squirrel-Raccoon Stopper
Since the time I started taking care of some birds, there are instances when a squirrel tries to enter the feeder for my birds just to get a taste of the bird seeds. So, I decided to invest in a premium quality squirrel baffle. This squirrel stopper by iPromio is quick to install. Upon receiving this product, I was impressed because I realized that I did not need any extra materials to install it.
This option has a patented rubber support for the pole so that it can be easily installed. There is an accompanying hook and look that will inhibit the cone to slide down, which means that it is securely installed in place. This torpedo squirrel baffle made my life easier because I did not have to constantly check on the bird pole feeder for any wandering squirrels.
At first, my birds were quite hesitant about the new object in their area, but they started to feel more comfortable around it. I have seen how some squirrels and even raccoons tried to enter my bird feeder but they always got defeated by this amazing squirrel baffle. I guess this is because the cone is quite heavy.
The only concern I have is that it is made of a plexiglass material and not metal. I am quite concerned because maybe the squirrels might chew on it and eventually cause some holes which will alter the structural integrity of the product.
- No extra materials needed for easy installation
- Squirrels and raccoons always lose to this cone baffle
- It is heavy.
- Works effectively for its purpose
- Uses plexiglass instead of metal
To sum up, this squirrel baffle is functional. However, plexiglass material was used in creating this baffle. It would have been better if the company used real metal.
3. Perky-Pet 340 Transparent Squirrel Bafflers
This 16-inch squirrel baffle is shaped like a dome. The design of the product is transparent, which is great because it gives me the perfect visibility to see the inside portion of the bird feeder. I installed this product using 2 different methods: by hanging it and by mounting it. At first, I tried hanging the hanging baffle so that it can block the entry of the squirrels from the top portion of the bird feeder.
With this method, the squirrels often fell down because the dome flips towards the heavier side where the squirrel is. They can also overcome the flipping portion and ultimately find its way inside the bird feeder. I also tried mounting it directly to the bird feeder pole. I personally prefer this method because it provides no option for the squirrels but to give up. It completely blocks the entry for the bird feeder, and they cannot do anything to move it around because the squirrel baffle is securely wrapped in place.
Meanwhile, the transparent design guarantees that birds feel safe and delight in a clear view. You can set aside some money on feeds; minimize the time for refilling and cleaning the feeders. I found this product a more efficient means to feed wild birds. This device can also be utilized for any type of bird feeder.
Nonetheless, this baffle is made of plastic material. I am a bit worried that squirrels would chew on it and it will eventually get damaged over time.
- Provides two methods of installation
- The dome shape makes it easier to use
- When mounted, it gives squirrels no choice but to give up
- Transparent (clear plastic) design makes it easier to see inside the bird feeder for pesky squirrels (if any)
- Plastic material makes it easy for squirrels to ruin it
- Using this by hanging it can be ineffective, so mount it instead to get maximum protection
Throughout using this clear squirrel baffle, I realized one thing: the large diameter makes up for its imperfections. I would still recommend this product because it is effective in squirrel proofing a bird feeder!
4. Stokes Select Squirrel-X Squirrel Baffles
Upon receiving one of the top squirrel baffles, I was stoked to try its 15-inch steel material. Finally, a squirrel baffle that is made of metal! Right off the bat, I can tell that it is extremely durable thanks to metal composition.
It has steel as its main material of choice, and I really love how thick it is. It is like a testament of how strong and sturdy it is in squirrel proofing bird feeders. I am confident that no matter how hard squirrels try to chew it off, it would not budge.
This product was extremely easy to install as well. I did not have a hard time mounting it onto my bird feeder pole because these qualifying purchases have a standard shape that is compatible with any poles. After that, it was already locked into place. And because it can be wrapped around the pole, it was extra easy to put on.
I love how it can easily be adjusted according to my preference. I was able to reposition it whenever I wanted to. All I had to do was to simply adjust the baffle’s position on the bird feeder pole. It can also be used as a baffle for a shepherd’s hook! I was able to save at least 65 percent on my seed costs after installing this great baffle – I am in awe of how amazingly this squirrel baffle works.
- Extremely durable thanks to metal composition
- Has a standard shape that is compatible with any poles
- It can easily be adjusted according to my preference
- It can also be used as a baffle for a shepherd’s hook
- None
In my opinion, this is the most beneficial squirrel baffle for shepherd’s hook and also the best metal squirrel baffle!
5. North States Two-Way Squirrel Baffles
When I received the package for this beautiful squirrel done for a bird feeder, I immediately noticed how compact its design is. It has a dimension of 15.75 inches in diameter, but it does not look that wide at all. It looks small, but it fits perfectly on the bird feeder pole. Its design is similar to an inverted bowl – it is really effective in keeping even the most pesky and persistent squirrel from getting inside the bird feeder!
As per the installation, this also offers two different methods. First, you can hang it so that the squirrel baffle is on top. As observed, when it is hung, it has the tendency to flip and give way for the squirrel to get inside. Another way to install this is by mounting it on the bird feeder pole so that it is locked tightly in place.
This baffle is the best bang for the money since it is built as weather-resistant, comes with UV protection feature and engineered using durable plastic material. Additionally, I love how the company already provided me with the materials that I needed in order to mount this onto the pole. I am beyond grateful for a hassle-free and convenient experience while using this baffle.
Thankfully, this device is quite straightforward to utilize and comes with an amazing design. I can maneuver it however I want to. Moreover, it gives me the power to take good care of my birds even when I am not around.
- It has a compact and sleek design
- Quite effective in keeping even the most pesky and persistent squirrel from getting inside the bird feeder
- Gives the user two options for installation – hanging or mounting
- Ensures convenient and hassle-free experience for users
- Squirrels may get the opportunity to sneak in the feeder if the cone flips when it is hung
This simple and classic squirrel guard for bird feeders really has a special place in my heart. It is quite affordable and it performs exactly the way it says it would. I recommend this to those who are only starting with squirrel baffles!
6. Audubon NATORPEDO Torpedo Steel Squirrel Baffles
I had to order this torpedo squirrel baffle to put an end to rodents and squirrels’ pesky little secret. When I saw how this Audubon wrap baffle looks like – it really does look like a torpedo. It has a triangular shape on one end and the body is long and round black steel. This torpedo steel squirrel baffle is coated with textured powder which gives the material a finish that is quite slippery. This feature discourages the squirrels from climbing on it!
I had an easy time installing this Audubon wrap baffle because there were already some couplers provided by the company. It is easy to install and it can be mounted right onto any bird feeder pole with a diameter of 1/2 inch up to 1 3/8 inches, excluding the pole. The coupler can be tied onto the baffle with a zip (also included) which is removed to secure the placement around the pole.
The thing I love about this Audubon torpedo steel squirrel baffle is that it has a “slide on” feature that allows it to be used easier as compared to the traditional squirrel baffle. No need to exert an excessive amount of effort just to manipulate it – because it can just be slid.
I love how this Audubon wrap baffle was created! It is extremely tough and it is on the heavier side. Because of this, I can assure you that it is durable and long-lasting. For sure, squirrels can’t chew their way into the bird feeder pole when the Audubon wrap baffle is in use.
Nonetheless, the stickers that are placed on the product are annoying. These are difficult to remove and they left some sticky residue which is hard to get rid of.
- Slippery finish discourages the squirrels from climbing on it
- Easy installation, thanks to the free couplers
- It has a “slide on” feature that allows it to be used easier
- It is durable and long-lasting
- Sticky residue because of an excessive amount of labeling tape
As a whole, I enjoyed using this because it gave me a bird feeder that is squirrel proof! This torpedo squirrel baffle really is an amazing investment.
7. Erva Post Mounted Squirrel Baffles
To keep squirrels away from my bird feeders, I decided to try this wrap around squirrel baffle from Erva. I was so glad about its size because it is a whopping 23.25 inches in diameter! I love how huge it is because let us be honest – there are some big squirrels that are about the size of a Chihuahua and because of their weight, they can easily sway the cones!
I installed this without any hassle at all. I appreciate how there were already screws available together with the order that I purchased. Because of this, the mounting process was quick and convenient for me! But what I love the most about this squirrel banishing baffle is that it has a galvanized finish which means that it has coated steel that will not develop any form of rust in the future!
The company made sure to coat the steal with a protective coating of zinc and this prevents the formation of rust. This coated steel will surely last you a long time! This wrap around squirrel baffle really made my life more convenient. Now instead of worrying about having squirrels inside my pole, I can be assured that this amazing innovation has already got that covered. I also appreciate that this product offers a wrap around option, and it has been helping me so much for the past few weeks that I have installed it!
The only problem that I encountered with this baffle is that some of my birds are scared because of its mirror-like finish. If there were other color options such as a matte black or grey, this product would have been perfect.
- A whopping 23.25 inches in diameter
- I installed this without any hassle at all
- The mounting process was quick and convenient
- Galvanized finish to prevent rust formation
- The mirror-like finish scares some birds away from the feeder
Ultimately, this product works excellently. The only problem I encountered is that my birds got scared of their reflection due to the cone’s mirror-like finish. For Erva, I suggest that they provide their consumers with more color options.
8. Droll Yankees Green SQG Dome Squirrel Guard
I purchased this cone in the hopes of relieving my problems about squirrels pestering my bird feeders. First of all, this is a clear squirrel baffle and it is shaped like a dome. It has a deeper groove, so this means that it will have a longer coverage of the feeder.
Installing this cone was as easy as 1, 2, 3! Again, cone-shaped squirrel baffles are meant to be used either of two ways: by hanging it on the pole or by mounting it directly. But to my surprise, this one is only for hanging. I realized that this has a longer coverage so I did not mind having to hang it even though I usually prefer mounting the baffles directly to the pole.
This product’s platform tray can hold up to a pound of the bird pole feeder! This goes to show how durable and strong the material is. Although I am quite hesitant about it because it is primarily made of plastic materials, it still holds up to its claims.
I love how this product offers a UV-stable clear polycarbonate feeding tray too. I appreciate this feature because it does not cover the sun’s beautiful shine. With that in mind, I am assured that my birds will still enjoy and experience the warmth and beauty of the sun’s shine.
Now, my birds enjoy this baffle as much as I do! They can now eat peacefully without having to worry about any squirrels inside their bird feeders. Now, no unexpected outsiders will baffle them any longer.
- It has a deeper groove design
- It has a longer coverage of the feeder
- UV-stabilized for a clear view of the sun
- Its platform tray can hold up to a pound of the bird pole feeder
- Made of plastic material
- Can only be used with one method (hanging)
This product delivers its promises and it has a long coverage for better protection. Its plastic material is a bummer, but if you have less persistent squirrels within your place, then you may opt to use this instead.
9. Arundale Products 154 Mandarin Squirrel Baffles
While browsing online, I saw these beautifully pristine squirrel baffles from Arundale that struck me immediately and caught my attention! First of all, this beauty is 17 by 12 inches in diameter. As you can see, it is quite wide and long, so I immediately thought that it might be the solution I’ve been looking for.
This baffle is easy to install. It has to be hung on top of the pole and just like that, it is already locked in place. I love how this baffle is able to withstand almost any weather condition. It is durable and strong, thanks to its material called plexiglass. That said, I am assured that it could withstand rugged use.
What I appreciate the most about this baffle is that it is made of a hundred percent plexiglass that was just recycled. This means that the company utilized pre-used plexiglass and recycled it just to curate this beautiful baffle! It is eco-friendly and it gave me a certain sense of achievement because I was able to help Mother Earth in my own little way.
Basically, I must say that I find this baffle a smart investment! It comes with appealing design, it works effectively, it is eco-friendly, and it is long enough to cover most of the feeder! It keeps squirrels off my feeder and it does its job pretty well. I am glad to see my birds enjoy their feeding time without dealing with squirrels who steal their feeds.
- It is quite wide and long
- Comes with aesthetically pleasing design
- Uses 100 percent plexiglass that was recycled
- Eco-friendly and works effectively
- None
Overall, I had such a blast using this squirrel stopper. It is an amazing squirrel shield for bird feeder which totally made my birds feel luxurious and beautiful!
10. Perky-Pet 341 Metal Pole Squirrel Bafflers
I am impressed by this squirrel baffle’s shape since it is not the typical shape that you would expect from a baffle. It is a long cylindrical structure with 2 holes on each side. It allows bird owners like me who are not that technical to have the chance and follow the installation manual.
I installed this easily, thanks to the provided mounting pieces of equipment that came along with the baffle that I ordered. I did not have a hard time putting it onto my feeder pole. Luckily, this one can be mounted onto any pole that has a dimension of 1 5/8th inches in diameter.
With the provided mounting bracket, I slid it down the pole and attached it into place before placing the baffle back on top. I have seen how some squirrels, opossums, and raccoons tried to surpass this device but they all failed!
Based on the dimensions of the baffle, I think that it can be installed on many different sizes of poles. The contraption for the baffler contains 4 hinges that securely hold the pole as you screw each one of them.
The color of the product also blends well in my backyard. It is green in color so it does not look out of place when viewed along with the plants in the background. I love how easily it blends into the scene.
I have been using this baffle for a week now and I can say that it has been helping me in reducing my budget for my bird seeds. Those pesky squirrels really ate a lot before, but now they cannot even enter the feeder anymore!
- Is on the more affordable end of the spectrum
- Easy to install and has free mounting equipment
- Its green color makes it easy to blend in the background
- Helped in reducing my budget for bird seeds
- Some people might not like its color
In a nutshell, I can recommend this baffle to anyone! It has all check marks in my criteria, and I believe that any bird owner will benefit from this bird feeder pole with a squirrel baffle.
11. Ashman Squirrel Proof Bafflers
I got this beautiful cone-shaped baffle from Ashman recently, and I liked it a lot. First of all, the material that they used is steel. This only means that this baffle is tough and durable because it has a compact and strong structural integrity. The steel is also coated with a layer of zinc, therefore this baffle is galvanized – it is coated steel.
As I’ve researched, the reason why companies prefer galvanized steels is that by adding some zinc, the material will be less prone to the development of rust in the future. This will ensure a greater longevity and lifespan for the baffle.
This baffle was super easy to assemble. I love how this baffle has such a wide diameter. It can cover a large space because it is 17 inches wide. Because of the wide area that it can cover, there is no possibility for squirrels to enter the feeder anymore.
This device can be set in place with two different methods. First, it can be wrapped around the pole feeders so that your feeder will have zero spaces where any squirrel or raccoon can enter. Another method is by hooking it onto the guard by hanging it onto the feeder. Both methods of placing the baffle work just fine, it’s just a matter of preference for the bird owner.
The only complaint I have is that sometimes, it slips off. I constantly need to check on it because it might lead to the entry of squirrels inside the feeder.
- Made of steel material for ensured durability
- Zinc coated steel so it does not rust easily
- Can be set up with two different methods
- Compact and portable design
- It has the tendency to slip off
I personally like this squirrel baffle for my bird feeder. It is a nice squirrel baffle for hanging bird feeders, although it has the tendency to slip off. The only thing you need to do is to check up on it from time to time, so that you can be sure that it is locked securely in place.
12. Gardener’s Supply Company Squirrel Baffles
I opted to have a classic and simple wrap around squirrel baffle. Fortunately, I came up with this product. This type of baffle is great for squirrel proofing bird feeder because it is wrapped tightly onto the pole; therefore, there will be no way for any squirrels to enter your feeder.
In like manner, this baffle has the capability of being mounted onto different sizes of poles. It can fit into poles that have 1/2 inch to 1 3/8 inches in diameter. This goes to show that it is very flexible in terms of its attachments.
Did you know that some squirrels get so big that they can maneuver their way around some baffles? I love how this baffle is made of metal. I was confident to buy this because it is heavy and thick, and that makes me feel more secure because at least I know that squirrels would not be able to move it around because of its weight.
I can testify to how strong and durable it is. It can also withstand severe weather conditions. So, regardless of the weather condition in the surroundings, I can be at peace knowing it can deliver its claims. I believe that this simple yet effective baffle is the best squirrel guards for bird houses.
- It is wrapped tightly onto the pole.
- Can be mounted onto different sizes of poles
- Made of metal so it is strong and durable
- Simple yet effective solution to squirrel problems
- None
I guess it is safe to say that this product from Gardener’s Supply is my top rated baffle. I have seen how this squirrel baffle has made the squirrels in my area frustrated. This product made them regret ever trying to get inside the feeder!
What is The Perfect Squirrel Baffle?
The Audubon Wrap Around Baffle that’s especially designed for squirrels is labeled as the most trustworthy squirrel baffle option. This is because it is durable enough to withstand any type of adverse weather conditions. It is built to be dustproof and it can also offer more protection against chewing. What is more, it is smooth sailing to assemble. Doing the necessary adjustments to fit your needs is also made easy.
More importantly, once you installed this squirrel baffle, it does not require maximum maintenance. All you need to do is to allow it to serve its purpose. Many users love the wrap around style of this baffle. In the same way, it comes with a sleek texture that helps impede squirrels from climbing. This stuff is also known for its being lightweight, portable and built to last features.
How Does it Work?
When installing a squirrel baffle, it is essential to highly consider its height and position. During installation, it should be at least 5-feet above the ground. You also need to place the baffle in a spot that is away from trees, bushes, and shrubs. You can design the hanging bird feeder roof so it could function as an inhibitor to block squirrels and rodents from leaping into the feeder. These devices are generally designed to safeguard bird feeders from various mammals, squirrels and rodents.
Likewise, baffles are also reliable in terms of keeping bird seeds to stay in place. It helps shield them from adverse weather conditions. Also, these are superb at averting different types of mammals from devouring the seeds that you prepared for your birds to consume.
With a functional squirrel baffle, your bird seeds are safe to be consumed by irking predators. This can help you save more since it is unnecessary to refill the seeds more frequently. You can also save time on cleaning because there will be minimal dropping.
What are The Different Types of a Squirrel Baffle?
There are 4 common types of baffles, namely:
Cone-shaped Baffles
This type of baffle is shaped like a cone – it is similar to an upside down shape of a funnel. You use this type of baffle to place it on the hanging feeders or pole.
Pole-style Baffles
This is a great choice for preventing the squirrels from entering the feeder. It has the perfect shape to guard the pole so that it can block squirrels from going up by climbing on it.
Dome-shaped Baffles
These baffles are usually clear and have round shapes. They are commonly used by hanging on the feeders or by mounting them straight to the pole.
Platform-Style Baffles
Of all the baffle types, this is the worst one. They are not recommended mainly due to their flat structural integrity. If this is the baffle in use, the squirrels will have more chances of striking it and going inside of your feeder.
Why do You Need a Squirrel Baffle?
Baffles serve as a protective covering or shield for your birdhouse. They prevent squirrels from getting inside the feeder where they will feast on the seeds that are meant to be eaten by your birds. These baffles work also by keeping the bird seeds in place, protecting them from aggressive and inclement weather conditions, and by maintaining a safe eating environment.
Having a squirrel baffle surely is a great way to get rid of unnecessary worries that you may have as a bird owner. So now that you know how to prevent them from annoying you further, get your feeder some squirrel baffles now!
Buying Guide
Now that you have already acquired the knowledge about squirrel baffles, now is the perfect time to figure out what to look for in buying one. It can be overwhelming because there are a lot of different products in the market, but there is no need for you to worry because here is a list of the perfect baffle.
Things to Look Out for in a Squirrel Baffle:
Material
Of course, you have to consider the type of material that it is made of. Since squirrels are known to be aggressive chewers of literally anything that they can chew, you might want to steer clear from materials that they can bite – such as plastic, plexiglass, and hard plastic.
By staying away from these materials, you are saving yourself some hard times. Who would want to use a baffle that can be destroyed by the thing that it is supposed to control, right?
When choosing a baffle, it is best to look for the ones that are made of steel and metal because these materials offer the best quality. They cannot be chewed by squirrels and they provide a hefty amount of weight so that no squirrel can move it around.
The Pole Size
Nothing is worse than buying a baffle that does not fit into your feeder’s pole. So it is only practical for you to measure your pole’s size first before venturing into the bird supply store to buy your new baffle.
Make sure that the baffle that you will buy is perfectly compatible with your pole at home. There are also two types of posts: metal and wooden. So make sure to get the correct baffle for the type of pole that you have.
Hang It or Mount It?
Do you want to hang your baffle on top of your feeder pole? Or maybe you would want to mount it directly onto the pole? Whatever it is that you decide to do, make sure that the baffle that you are purchasing can be attached according to the method that you prefer.
Price
Now for the most crucial part – the amount of money that your brand new baffle will cost you. Of course, it would not be super cheap but at least get something that is reasonably priced. Do not spend too much money on something expensive that works just as fine as something more affordable.
Care and Maintenance
When you buy a baffle, you have to take good care of it so that it will last you for a long time. Here are some tips that you can do to prolong its great condition:
- Make sure that your bird feeders are placed far from trees and fences. These are common areas where squirrels can jump from so that they can land on top of the feeder. Avoid this so that your baffle will not be dented or deterred.
- You may try applying grease on the poles where the feeder is on. You can also install your baffle feeders on the top portion as well as the bottom portion of the pole. By doing this, you now have coverage on all available areas, leaving no openings for squirrels to enter.
- Always clean your baffles every single day. Most birds will defecate on brand new baffles so that they can mark it with their scent. Beware of this habit and clean your baffles all the time to avoid the formation of bacteria that can harm the health of your birds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Most Trusted Squirrel Baffle Brands?
Some of the most trusted baffle brands are Audubon, iPrimio, Squirrel Stopper, Woodlink, Stokes, Squirrel Guard, and Perky Pet. These brands offer the most credible baffles in the market as of today.
Do Baffles Keep Squirrels Away?
Baffles specifically function as an inhibitor; a blocker that will prevent the squirrels, raccoons, and even rats from entering the house for your birds. These are notorious for getting inside of the feeder where they much on the bird seeds, leaving no food for the birds that you own and take good care of.
Yes, baffles are really effective in keeping squirrels away from your birdhouse. But make sure that the feeder is far from trees and fences so as to avoid the sudden jump from squirrels.
How High Should a Squirrel Baffle be?
For a baffle to work and be effective, it has to be placed at least 3 to 4 feet from the ground level. This will prevent squirrels from jumping on its top portion. Once you have already secured the baffle in place, you have to add a feeder or maybe even two feeders on the top portion of your pole.
How to Install a Squirrel Baffle?
For post-mounted baffles:
- Make sure that your location is at the very least 7 to 8 inches from other structures where squirrels can climb and jump from. Some examples are garden walls, fences, trees, sheds, railings, and stumps. Even the best baffle that is available in the world will not work effectively if the squirrels in your area can just jump straight into the feeder.
- Make sure that your baffle is placed on top of the pole and it at least 4 inches above the ground. It is preferred to be placed exactly right below the feeder.
- Lastly, if you have a shepherd’s crook pole with a hanging feeder, make sure to situate the baffle so that it will be 4 inches from the ground. But take note that it should be too night that squirrels can just jump from the pole under the baffle immediately toward the feeder.
For hanging baffles:
- The first thing that you need to do is to select a tree branch that is not too high and not too low. This is to make sure that the bottom portion of your feeder is at least 4 inches above the ground. It also has to be long enough so that the feeder is 7 to 8 inches from the tree’s trunk.
- Let the baffle hang from a tree branch by using a hook, hinge, or a chain that is at least 18 to 24 inches in length. With this, hang the feeder just right below the baffle.
How to Make a Squirrel Baffle?
Making a DIY squirrel baffle is something that all bird owners have to master because it is an essential aspect of taking care of the birds. Here are the materials and steps needed to make your very own baffle.
Materials:
- Stovepipe
- Sheet metal screws
- Stovepipe end cap
- Screwdriver
- Drill
- Vise/ Clamp/ Pliers
- Hose clamp
- Small drill bit
- Large drill bit/hole saw
Steps on How to Build Your Own DIY Baffle:
#1. Drill the hole
Make sure to clamp the end portion of the cap firmly in a vise or with the use of pliers. Use a drill or a hole saw to drill a hole in the center of the end cap – do this carefully and calmly.
However, if you have a square pole, you may want to create a small pilot hole and slowly enlarging it using a saber saw or a metal shear that can be used to cut the hole according to the shape that you want.
#2. Fit the end cap
Join together the stovepipes and fit them directly and accurately inside of the end cap.
#3. Drill your pilot holes
Place the baffle as carefully as possible and lay it on its sides. While it is in this position, drill the pilot holes through its sides (end cap) and make sure that the holes are able to go through the end cap as well as the stovepipe.
#4. Attach the screws
Get it on and tighten the metal screw sheets as tightly as possible. This will ensure that the end cap and the stovepipe are held well together.
#5. Pass the baffle right over the pole by slipping it
While the baffle is placed head down like a bell, slip the feeder pole in one swift motion through the hole that is located in the center. The upper portion of the baffle needs to be at about 4 to 5 inches from the ground. Put a mark on the pole on the top and raise the baffle.
#6. Attach the hose clamp
Use a screwdriver so that you can attach the hose clamp right onto the pole at the mark you created a while ago.
#7. You may now install the baffle
By slipping the baffle right back down, you will allow it to rest on the hose clamp. Now, you have created your very own baffle!
How to Care for and Wash?
There are two options on how you may wash your baffle. You may either…
- Wash the baffle using warm water and a bar of antibacterial soap. Rinse it thoroughly and repeat as needed.
- You may scrub it with some warm vinegar solution (1 water: 1 vinegar) and then proceed with washing it with warm water and a bar of antibacterial soap.
Where to Buy It?
There are a lot of stores where you can purchase your own baffle. Some are Lowe’s Home Improvement, Tractor Supply Co., Walmart Supercenter, The Audubon Shop, and Wild Birds Unlimited.
You may opt to buy from a department store or a bird specialty store for proper assistance.
Conclusion
Over the years, I have been an avid bird owner. I enjoy seeing my birds fly and flutter their wings to the best of their abilities. However, the problem I often encounter is how squirrels are so determined to eat my bird’s seeds. This has cost me quite a lot because instead of feeding just my pet birds, I am also feeding the squirrels!
Finally, I have found 12 of the most amazing baffles for squirrels that are currently available in the market. It is important to stop these squirrels from pestering my feeders, so I am very thankful for the innovation that has put an end to my misery.
What are you waiting for? Here are 12 of the best squirrel baffles! It is now the best time for you to get your hands on these amazing squirrel baffles. They will surely solve your problems about those pesky squirrels!