A Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder that works! Easy, inexpensive DIY solution, 2 hours, less than $20

I finally won the squirrel challenge! Since putting this up in the spring , not a single squirrel has made it to the bird feeder instead of their own! Build a simple but very effective squirrel barrier. This design is adaptable to almost any kind of feeder.
See the High Velocity Wind Edition, Version 2.0 • Squirrel Proof Bird Fe...
See the 6 month Follow Up - Happy Creatures • Squirrel Proof Bird Fe...
We love the squirrels, but they were eating all of the suet and not leaving any for the birds. You too can keep them out of the bird feeder for under $20 and a couple hours of easy work.
Protect, guard and shelter your birds. Baffle those squirrels!
Free Printable 9-page Step-by-Step Visual Guide: large images and text for easy reference while building your new Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder! A pictorial materials list and easy-to-follow steps make this a fun and easy DIY project! uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-pro...
The suet feeder we are using is from Wild Birds Unlimited, but they don't have it online and not every store carries them. I highly recommend this feeder since it excludes starlings and grackles very effectively. However if you can't find one, I have a couple of links to Amazon for feeders that would be easy to adapt to this umbrella system. amzn.to/3hzVbtJ amzn.to/2G1oGHc amzn.to/2QuzGig
If you found this video helpful, please Like, Comment, Subscribe and Share! And, if you have ideas, questions, comments, or images of YOUR project, you can post them on the Uncharted DIY article page at uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-pro...
See UnchartedDIY.com for more how-to information, videos, details and links to resources.
Intro music by monkeyman535, freesound.org/s/466981/
Squirrel by Mary McGowan/Courtesy of the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards
If you purchase from one of the provided product links, Uncharted DIY may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Check out a short follow up video that shows this feeder 5 months later! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYTFnXxvbdV0htk

[@darylcheshire1618]

I would like to see a few minutes of squirrels trying to access the feeder with the umbrella

[@UnchartedDIY]

I'd like to see that too, Daryl! Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it), they totally ignored the feeder after the first few minutes, so I didn't even have time to film their reaction.

[@bbrachman]

It is simply amazing the lengths some people go to in protecting their backyard birds. I have 5 feeders. Every one of them has been altered to protect my small birds and frustrate the larger birds. One feeder has had 15 different variations. I enjoy watching my birds. Always thinking about how I can make the feeders better. Thanks for the umbrella video.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for the feedback, Bruce. We really enjoy watching our birds too! The birds can use all the help they can get since so many populations are in decline, so thank you for going to those great lengths! I'd love to see some of your feeder innovations, and if you'd like to share them, you can post on the Uncharted DIY site here: uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/

[@rjpoldfart]

At first I thought this was over kill, but after chasing squirrels for days from my new bird feeder, I was willing to try anything. This worked beautifully. Thanks for the tip.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks! I thought it was over the top too, but I had nothing to lose by trying, and I'm glad I did! It's still working perfectly and we don't have to spend all day scolding the squirrels! It has brought peace to our yard again. 😁

[@toekneetogo]

Great idea, love the ingenuity by both parties 🥰 Your squirrels are incredibly resourceful, like most

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks. I'm truly amazed by how smart and tenacious these little creatures are!

[@CosmicStargoat]

That is pretty awesome. I've given up on trying to feed my birds, so I let my neighbor do it. The birds then come to my place for the water in the birdbath. Bees, too.

[@frenchcottage2427]

Wow wow wow!! Very clever setup. I’m gonna do this. Right now I have a plastic flower pot I use as a baffle. Thank you for your video!!

[@UnchartedDIY]

Glad it was helpful. Let me know how it comes out!

[@SmokyMountainBlessed]

looks like a good solution, I just ordered 2 bird feeders

[@UnchartedDIY]

Yay! Happy bird feeding!

[@judithfarmer1379]

You are so creative.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you, Judith!

[@jejoko]

Squirrels will eventually figure it out and then thank you for setting up a shade for them to eat under.

[@UnchartedDIY]

While the thought of them comfortably eating the suet in the shade is amusing, it has been three years now and it's still working! Let's speak quietly about this though...I don't want our squirrels to get any ideas!

[@lilahb123]

That works amazingly can't wait to do it myself

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks Lilah. I can't wait to see how yours turns out! I think you'll have fun with this. When you make yours, you can post photos and share your experience on UnchartedDIY.com. By then, the new user discussion forum should be live, and there's a comment section on the article too.

[@Norm475]

I use to feed the birds when I owned a home, but now I rent so I no longer do. When I would feed the birds I found it entertaining watching the squirrels go for the seeds. I made it difficult but not impossible for them to eat. I found it very entertaining how smart some of those little guys are.

[@UnchartedDIY]

I agree with you Norm! I know a lot of people don't like squirrels, but we love them... Just not on the suet feeder 🙂

[@axscdvfb]

Thank you so much for making this video!

[@UnchartedDIY]

I hope it helped you! I would love to know how yours comes out if you make one. Mine has been been up for over 2 months now, and there have been zero squirrels on the feeder!

[@DIYOneForAll]

Very interesting testing the intellect of a smart squirrel 😀

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks DIY! They are more than pretty (cute) faces!

[@davidwilcox5173]

Awesome!!! It's a daily battle with the squirrels!!! Well done!!

[@UnchartedDIY]

They are so smart! Thanks for watching, David!

[@atticstattic]

Blue baffle: it's fine. Blue umbrella: no way, José.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Totally agree! That's why I painted it camo.

[@davidshettlesworth1442]

Nice! A great idea and project. Thanks for the advice and tips.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks! It's a fun project.

[@judywyatt4790]

Will send photos. Thank you for sharing.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Please do! I love seeing photos of projects.

[@christoole1664]

That is a really cool idea. Thanks for sharing.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for watching, Chris!

[@martinhall60]

What an amazing video, well done and Best wishes from the UK. 👍

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for watching this one and the followup, Martin!

[@S1L3NTG4M3R]

THANKS

[@donnamealy4877]

Ingenious! Thanks. ❤

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you Donna. I didn't know if it was clever or crazy until it worked so well!

[@sharonstanley5054]

Very ingenious, Steve. Keep those squirrels out of the bird feeder, yyyeeeeeesssssss!

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you, Sharon! I am still amazed at how well this works 🤗

[@augeniasestokaite8603]

Thanks for your work- super great...!!!

[@UnchartedDIY]

Glad you liked it, Augenia!

[@RamBabu-ub5wl]

EXCELLENT WORK

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you! If you try this project, please add an image showing your project on the website comments section: uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/ We would love to see your squirrel proof feeder!

[@musings2022]

Brilliant. Thank you!

[@UnchartedDIY]

I'm glad you like it. Thanks for watching!

[@denisenadeau5243]

really good idea

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for watching, Denise! Glad you liked it.

[@ytcarol]

Excellent narration, clear steps and great accompanying visuals. I couldn't do this in my retirement community with its rules but am delighted to see a solution. Only thing missing here is the video of squirrels being thwarted! Subscribed.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks, ytcarol! I wish I had funny video of them trying to defeat my system, but they didn't really try. I think it looks impenetrable to them so they leave it alone. Works great, but no squirrel antics for amusement!

[@aspensulphate]

Love your video. I think it's a clever idea, and well executed, but I can't see it holding up very long. I've seen squirrels chew through half-inch plywood. Doesn't seem like it would take them long to get through the thin fabric of that umbrella. Nevertheless, it's working now, and I hope it keeps working for you. Thanks for posting.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you for watching and commenting. I was not sure it would hold up to their chewing either, but after the first day I reinforced the edges, they stopped. The squirrels still hang out in the yard, but we have yet to see one even look at the feeder - they completely gave up! It's also survived for almost three months now, through rain, snow, hail, 70mph winds, 5 degree cold, and 92 degree heat! And it's still working. If it begins to fail in any way, I'll post so viewers can get an idea of how long it will last.

[@sweetmary9326]

Love squirrels how they like challenges. So smart and so cute. Good idea to protect birds food but I love to see them in my yard in just have to buy more food haha.

[@UnchartedDIY]

They are so much fun to watch. Cute and smart is right!

[@tammygurl64]

I love DIY projects and yours is pretty clever. 👍

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks tammygurl! I thought is was a wild idea when I tried it, but it turned out to be super effective. It's still holding up nicely and working great over a year later! Thanks for watching!

[@tammygurl64]

@@UnchartedDIY Wild and crazy ideas are sometimes the best ideas! 😃

[@gloriaharvey3193]

Awesome ideal !!!!

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you, Gloria! I am still amazed at how well this crazy idea worked!

[@lindadiane8705]

thanks for the clear video! Got me thinking of how to create a light weight metal "umbrella" hmmmm.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for the feedback! It has gone through two hail storms and still looks great, but the idea of metal is intriguing. I'll post a video if I come up with something, and if you do, I'd love to hear about it!

[@robinrummel1359]

I was thinking the same thing... maybe sheet metal used to make ductwork? Surely humans are smarter than the smartest squirrel and can figure out an indestructible way to block them!

[@laurenceharris8160]

Awesome engineering!

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you, Laurence!

[@dawn7496]

I would love it if you made squirrel houses. I think you would come up with a great predator protection.

[@UnchartedDIY]

That could be a fun project! Thanks for the suggestion!

[@shep6123]

That was nice I like it

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks. Glad you like it!

[@johndavies6769]

Ingenious. John from County Durham, England Uk

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks, John! Let me know if you make one!

[@sheilanoble269]

I love birds and squirrels and feed both. The little squirrels are so cute and are hungry, also. My birds and squirrels share!

[@UnchartedDIY]

We also love the squirrels. They are fed their own food too, but this keeps them from eating the expensive suet before the birds can get to it. All the critters are happy!

[@sheilanoble269]

@@UnchartedDIY I gotcha! I'm glad to know that all are happy! LOL!

[@GlenAllen]

i've recently hung three feeders using the fine wire used for hanging a drop ceiling grid. I made sure the feeders were kept at least 5 feet off the ground (vertical jumping distance). I also ensured the feeders were at least a 5-6 feet away from other branches or other objects so the squirrels couldn't jump across or jump down onto the feeders. So far so good..

[@UnchartedDIY]

That sounds like a great solution - nice work!

[@WayneRigley]

OMG sounds just like Red Green ! LOL

[@UnchartedDIY]

It's funny you say that Wayne! I had someone else say that in another video.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Free printable step-by-step visual guide for this project here: uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/

[@denwin9039]

Big garbage can lids are just the right size. Much tougher too.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for the comment Denwin. It sounds like a great idea. I do wonder what would happen in strong wind though, since 70 or 80 mph is not uncommon around here. If you've done this, I'd love to see some photos of what it looks like. You can post photos in the comments section on my website here: uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/

[@creativeone3392]

Hi guys, Hannah here. Love, love, love this! Hope u don't mind me sharing your site with my friends. wonderful.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you! Please share away!

[@tubetop123]

Awesome. There's another video method that makes the Peter out of circular rings. That works perfectly

[@UnchartedDIY]

I'm guessing autocorrect changed "feeder" to "Peter"? If I ever need to replace mine, a circular ring solution might work well. Thanks for the tip.

[@kimnielsenthewordyvikingett159]

I think that's a pretty sharp idea there guy. All hats off to ya 👏 bravo bravo 👏.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thank you, Kim!

[@dmcdlj]

I just bought a couple of Yankee flipper feeders. Squirrel problem solved. It only took a few days of being thrown off the feeders ( which are about 10' off the groun so the squirrels didn't get hurt ) and they stop trying. I do have a couple of feeders for the squirrels and put out food for them.

[@UnchartedDIY]

I like those feeders too, and giving the squirrels their own food eliminates much of the problem of them eating all the suet!

[@HoundDogMech]

Congrats Bro this is won of the Best DIY videos I've seen. Maybe not the greatest from a project but from the complete and concise explanations that definitely coincide with the video. Do you happen to be into the assembly of Model R/C aircraft. They could use someone of your expertise in explaining how to vids. I think I subscribe.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks so much, HoundDog! I've been eyeing R/C aircraft as a hobby for a while, but I already have WAY too many hobbies and only so much time! I'll dive into R/C when my clone arrives! 🤪

[@kevink552]

Very well thought out feeder, squirrels are difficult to keep off of any backyard feeder. I either shoot them{during the season} or trap and relocate them to a creek bottom 10 miles away depending on the time of year. We have the common fox squirrel here, the population is very high due to them adapting to living around humans.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks Kevin. We love having them in the yard, just not on the bird's suet feeder. When it comes to appetite, they don't seem to have an off switch!

[@justincase1575]

Squirrel soup tastes pretty good! People used to eat them all the time!

[@543dp3555]

Man vs. Squirrels, a never ending war because they got nothing but time to solve what we throw at them.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Wise observation! 😊

[@suezbell1]

A large recycled thrift store cone shaped christmas tree stand might work as a squirrel baffle? Might last longer than an umbrella?

[@UnchartedDIY]

Great idea, Sue Zbell. If it's a large enough diameter to fully cover the feeder, it would work really well!

[@varshapatel8612]

It's good idea. I also want to share mine too. If I want to share my settings in my backyard how can I ? I want to share my some pictures of my backyard.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for asking, Varsha. Images can't be posted here on KZbin, but you can post pictures and comments on the article page here: uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/ I look forward to seeing what you have done!

[@ct7625]

My peanut butter containers with Folger coffee lids on top(rain) and bottom(feed tray) and dowels hanf from clothesline. Only one squirrel got to the feeder. They now grab the seeds that the birds drop and some peanuts. Problem is bluejays and blackbirds who empty the feeder.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Sounds like an effective solution! As for the other birds, that's a much more difficult problem to solve 😃

[@bluzzjazz]

Squirrels are maddening. I tried everything but they are glutenous. They even found a way to crawl up the siding on my house to get to a window feeder. Thus far, the only method that has worked, is my break- barrel pellet gun. Even that is temporary, as I can't shoot enough of them to keep up with the onslaught. I back up to woods and there must be hundreds of squirrels in them. The large seed cakes are expensive and it sux to see squirrels have devoured one in two days. Damn squirrels.

[@UnchartedDIY]

That sounds pretty frustrating, bluzzjazz. With that many squirrels, getting rid of them will only create a vacuum and new ones will always be right there to fill the gap. Rather than shooting them, you might try my feeder solution. We have both the suet cage style feeder and a large cylindrical seed cake feeder hanging below that. You can see the setup in the squirrel proof feeder followup, here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYTFnXxvbdV0htk. In the year since I put it up, we haven't had a single squirrel make it onto the feeder. If your feeder is setup differently, like on a pole for instance, the same technique as my tree-hung feeder would be pretty easy modify - it would just require a larger hole through the umbrella, and zip ties or wire to attach the umbrella handle to the pole. As for the window feeder, what comes to my mind is attaching aluminum roll flashing on the siding below the feeder. It's easy to work with and can be painted, so it doesn't have to be ugly. It's so smooth and slick, the squirrels would have nothing to grab onto to. I used this flashing to clad our apple tree and made a cone baffle to protect the Flicker woodpecker cavity nest from predators and it has worked perfectly, enough where the flickers have raised three broods so far, and are working on another. This video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inWcqKWkjp6Yb9U shows the whole protection system, and this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4OTe5pmnLCBi8U shows how to to make a baffle and work with the aluminum flashing. There is more information and links to the products I used on my website here: uncharteddiy.com/predator-defense-system/ Good luck, and I'd love to hear what ends up working for you...

[@Shinobi_18]

I would like to know how this proyect been doing lately

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for asking Sistalov! Since I can't post images here on KZbin, I added a photo of the feeder from yesterday to the Uncharted DIY site: uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/ It's down in the comments section. It has held up incredibly well and looks the same as when I put it up. I haven't had to do a thing to it other than add more suet to the feeder! The birds love it and the squirrels are happy to stay off it and eat their own food. If you are thinking about doing this project, I highly recommend doing it. It's fun, easy and cheap! If you do, please post pictures on UnchartedDIY.com!

[@raymondrak961]

An ingenious solution to squirrels eating bird food. I noticed when you cut the bottom of the umbrella shaft that it was hollow. Wondering if it is possible to cut the shaft at the other end and thread the cable through.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for asking such a great question, Bellva! If your tree is higher off the ground (out of a squirrel's jumping range), running it all the way through the shaft might work really well! I love the way you think! For my situation, I considered running the cable through the handle, but it needed to come out near the top so the feeder didn't hang too low. You can see that the branch it hangs from is pretty low in my followup video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYTFnXxvbdV0htk I couldn't cut the handle down since running it through the feeder really helps stabilize it in the wind. Then, I thought about just running it part way from the top and exit a few inches down through a hole, but I was concerned that it might weaken the shaft.

[@UnchartedDIY]

I just wanted you to know that I added your great question to the comments on the article page on UnchartedDIY.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/ Thanks for watching and suggesting ideas!

[@DeathReviews]

How does it hold up under weathering? I imagine being exposed to the elements 24/7, in sunny days and foul weather, would cause the umbrella fabric to decay...

[@UnchartedDIY]

It's been a year of Colorado sunshine, high wind and lots of snow and it still looks great! The fabric still feels like it did when I painted it. It would probably not hold up so well if it had NOT been painted.

[@robertsimpson7113]

Put hole in umbrella fabric with a heated up awl. makes hole and sears fabric... no runs or rips.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Great idea, Robert! I thought about using a lighter but worried the whole thing might catch on fire, so that's a great solution.

[@MrKrawk]

Have you not had issues with the squirrels basically chewing a hole in the umbrella? Like, down the middle?

[@UnchartedDIY]

Not yet, but given how crafty those squirrels are, they might figure it out. Please don't tell them, and we can try to keep it a secret 😉🐿️

[@blipblip88]

cool. we put out cayenne-infused suet, and that seems keep the squirrels at bay.

[@UnchartedDIY]

We tried the cayenne suet too, blip. Unfortunately, the birds didn't seem to like it and quit coming to the feeder. I think we just have spoiled, picky eaters 😃

[@elainedow9839]

Hot spices can irritate birds’ eyes.

[@keithzeykon9428]

Nice try. Its good entertainment for sure. Try a 4"x24" galvanized or aluminum chimney pipe for a baffle. Close one side up around a pole.

[@UnchartedDIY]

That will work great for a pole mounted feeder. I did something similar to protect a cavity nest in our apple tree, shown here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inWcqKWkjp6Yb9U

[@time2pray777]

Is there an easier way to do this for those of us who do not have your skills? Can you make these somehow to be easily assembled by others and then I can buy it from you?

[@UnchartedDIY]

I'm not really set up for producing these, but I would suggest getting a family member, friend or neighbor to make one of these with you. It would be a fun way to spend some time together!

[@UnchartedDIY]

You can now post images with your comments on the each of the website articles. Show us and other readers your bird feeder! uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/

[@darylcheshire1618]

After watching a few of these squirrel bird feeder videos, I wondered if squirrels chew through wood, like rats. In Australia we don’t have squirrels but we do have possums and rats. Not sure if they present the same problem as squirrels. And possums are protected. (not sure if you can shock them)

[@UnchartedDIY]

I have never seen ours chew on wood. I don't know if that's always the case, but the squirrels I've lived with in Colorado don't seem to have that habit. Maybe their teeth aren't continually growing, so they don't need to constantly chew?

[@darylcheshire1618]

@@UnchartedDIY I wondered if they chew wood for their nests. I’m not sure what a squirrel uses for a nest.

[@debf2756]

Wonder if it work for homing pigeons?

[@UnchartedDIY]

I'm not sure what you mean. Are they eating your suet? The only thing I know about homing pigeons is from the movies 😁

[@ShapdCrusadr]

There is a video where they got sick of Squirrels eating all the bird seed from their feeders on a wood post. So ended up setting up a small electric type fence type setup running up the wooden post. It's just enough of a shock to make them rethink about their action.

[@UnchartedDIY]

I know the shock can be effective, but my umbrella solution is working great without resorting to that. I know it doesn't injure them, but if you've ever touched an electric fence, you know it's not a pain-free experience and I'd rather not subject them to it. We love having the squirrels in the yard and want them to be here, just not on the bird feeder.

[@philipwethington7965]

I wonder if you had thought about giving them a little charge like using a electric fence ? I bet those Fox Squirrels weigh close to 4 Pounds, I use to hunt Squirrels, I haven't been in a long time. It is funny to watch gray and fox squirrels try to figure out how to get pass the fence.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for asking, Phillip. If this was an ongoing problem, I might consider it, but since the umbrella has been so effective and it's such a simple solution, I don't see any need. While I know the zap won't injure them, I'd rather not scare them away from the tree since we like having them around. We just don't want them preventing the birds from getting to their feeder.

[@getin3949]

I don't know what you're shopping for squirrel baffles but the $148.00 one I saw in your video I only paid $14.99 for. And of course you're correct, there isn't much that at least one squirrel can't figure out. My grandfather used to set up obstacle courses for the squirrels and in the end at least one of them figured it out but it entertained my grandfather and made him laugh watching the squirrels. Myself, I don't find it amusing, it's costly because they can devour a full hopper feeder in no time. I have two of the weight activated hopper feeders so when a squirrel sits or pulls on the perch it closes ALL of the feeder ports. I have NO problems with squirrels on those two feeders. I will try your umbrella method on the suet feeder because I've just put ghost pepper dust on the cakes and so far I haven't seen a squirrel on the feeder. Maybe the combination of the umbrella and the ghost pepper will keep them at bay. Thanks for your video sir.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for the feedback, get in. I would love to hear back how it works for you when you try the umbrella trick! Ours is still going strong and the squirrels don't pay any attention to the suet feeder. The baffle shown in the video was an extreme example, but the point was that without even taking cost into account, an 18" baffle wouldn't slow the squirrels down any more than the 14" one we had. I couldn't find anything larger than an 18" that wasn't stupidly expensive AND usually ugly too! Seeing the extreme price on the baffle in the video was the last straw for me. Rather than continue down a path that was getting us nowhere, it was time to think outside the box. It turns out to have been the smartest $20 I've spent AND it was fun to make too. As you know, keeping up with the suet is tough enough when it's only the birds eating it, so it was out of control with all the squirrels eating it too. The birds weren't getting any of it. Now, all the creatures are happy and fed, and it has transformed the yard into a peaceful and enjoyable oasis from the chaos of the world!

[@jerymedobbs9786]

That highly animated still frame seems to show the squirrel trying to prevent the human from violating chess etiquette. Am I wrong?

[@UnchartedDIY]

I guess I was so excited to finally win a match that I temporarily forgot my manners! I am usually a good sport.

[@Terryblount]

Have you tried the squirrel attic strobe light?

[@UnchartedDIY]

I have not actually tried the strobe light, but I'm pretty sure it would also scare away all the birds that I actually want to have at the feeder. Good idea for an area like an attic or crawlspace where nothing should be living in there.

[@tammygurl64]

That's a great idea... not for the birds though but a strobe light on a motion sensor tucked away under the house might deter the possums that get under there in winter. Thanks for the idea!

[@UnchartedDIY]

@@tammygurl64 Funny you mention that! I just put up a new video about a system to scare off critters, including possums. kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLCaqubarJppac This one involves a high pressure hose, but the same setup could be used for a strobe. I also made a version of the device shown in that video that combines sound, motion and light for when water won't work. Stay tuned...

[@tammygurl64]

@@UnchartedDIY Thanks! Project SCRAM was awesome!!!👍😂🤣😂🤣

[@UnchartedDIY]

@@tammygurl64 Thanks! Another SCRAM device video is in the works!

[@normanrhone2791]

So it is tear, or bite proof? Wouldn't it make more sense to use a sturdier material with same umbrella shape?

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for asking, Norman. It's not bite or tear proof, but it turns out it doesn't need to be - it still looks just like when I put it up in March and it's survived snow, hail, rain and scorching sun. To this day, no squirrels have made it onto the suet feeder. Check out the follow up video to see how it's holding up. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYTFnXxvbdV0htk

[@LeeBv9983]

@@UnchartedDIY Link doesn't seem to work, even after removing the period in "tube."

[@UnchartedDIY]

@@LeeBv9983 I tried the link and it seems to work on this end of things, but here's the actual URL just in case. Thanks for letting me know. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYTFnXxvbdV0htk

[@donhuffer4637]

A 2 to 4 inch pipe keeps them off mine. Can't climb the slick pvc.

[@UnchartedDIY]

That is a great solution for pole mounted feeders. Glad to hear it works well.

[@jyotikijyoti]

Wow that is clever but I cant do it myself.. Need somebody to do it for me :(

[@UnchartedDIY]

Is it the actual making of this, or is it getting it hung up that makes it difficult? I'd be happy to offer tips and advice if I can. With school out, it might be fun to make this a DIY project with neighborhood kids or nieces and nephews if that's a possibility.

[@Miketar2424]

The issue is that it hangs from a tree. If the squirrel can get on top of it, it will eventually figure out how to get through it. I used a standing feeder pole, with a baffle, placed 10 feet away from the nearest tree. It works great, as the squirrels or chipmunks can't climb past the baffle.

[@UnchartedDIY]

I put together a short video update that addresses this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYTFnXxvbdV0htk I prefer mine IN the tree, and this works perfectly. The squirrels gave up trying very quickly. It keeps the birds sheltered and helps prevent them from being picked off by accipiter hawks that watch feeders, waiting for an easy meal. Thanks for the feedback.

[@joeyd.OEF.2010]

If I use a pole feeder with a baffle, the squirrels stay off but the bear knock it down ......over-and-over.

[@micahgoingback1771]

I would run the wire down the inside of the umbrella shaft

[@UnchartedDIY]

I'd love to know how it comes out. I thought about doing that too. 👍

[@kyleday7452]

I think the original color of the umbrella looked a lot better than your ugly paint job! Plus, you made this WAY more complicated than it needed to be! But it works.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Our DIY community is always interested in ways to simplify projects. Looking forward to seeing your take on this.

[@billstrowder]

Paint the umbrella with polyurea.

[@UnchartedDIY]

It's been over a year and has held up perfectly, so I don't think I'll need to do that yet. Good idea though, William! Polyurea is tough and the umbrella might live longer than I do!

[@LyneisFilm]

Squirrel Raids Bird Feeder - Cyclotron Physicist Builds a Squirrel Cafe. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2GvppifitCVb8U

[@UnchartedDIY]

I love watching your squirrels and your storytelling is very entertaining!

[@patriciagantz377]

I just went to the dollar store and got a oversized metal serving tray , drilled a hole in the center , got it balanced . Now it takes nothing to tip it and down they go .

[@UnchartedDIY]

That's a great solution Patricia! If it's shiny metal like I'm picturing in my mind, I wonder if seeing "another" squirrel in the reflection might help keep them away too? I'd love to see a picture if you would like to post one. The comments section of the squirrel article at uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/ will allow commenters to post photos.

[@abnrgr7569]

I'm surprised they haven't used claws to grio the umbrella. Wouldn't that RIP it? I chase them off with rubbing alcohol, grain liquor, pepper oil and Ammonia. They don't like getting hit with that.

[@UnchartedDIY]

I thought they might rip through it too when it first went up. However, it's been over a year now and they stay off of it. I get the impression that they don't like the feeling of the fabric, since they don't even put their full weight on the umbrella when they've tried. I suspect it's a combination of an unnatural texture and a springy response that probably feels really unstable.

[@Terryblount]

Why would you do all that work painting and trimming it before you tested it to know if it would work?

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for asking Terry. It was easy enough to just complete it for testing, and I didn't think the birds would be very happy about a giant blue umbrella hanging over the feeder. I also didn't want to have it be so noticeable for us and for our neighbors. As it is, the neighbors have said it's unobtrusive and clever.

[@hyacinththompson6089]

Thrust me, their eventually going to figure it out!

[@UnchartedDIY]

I thought they might too, Hyacinth. But, it's coming up on 7 months and they haven't yet!

[@dathyr1]

Why didn't you show the Squirrels in action on this revised Feeder now.

[@UnchartedDIY]

They completely stopped trying to get to the feeder, which makes for boring video!

[@davve50]

Dam , I made one of these years ago, I should have patented it , I'd be rich, I used thin sheet metal.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Clearly, you are an advanced thinker David! 😁 I had also considered making this from sheet metal, so I'd LOVE to see pictures of what you did! Images can't be posted in comments here on KZbin, but they can on the article page here: uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/ I'm really curious to see if it looks like the image I have in my mind!

[@melodydelgado5211]

Poor squirrels they're hungry too !!

[@UnchartedDIY]

We feed them too. We just don't want them eating the suet, preventing the woodpeckers from getting their food. You can see happy and healthy squirrels enjoying the backyard in this followup video kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYTFnXxvbdV0htk

[@chriskourlos4407]

🤠👍

[@getin3949]

I just Googles 18" wrap squirrel baffle and all of the prices are under $20.00. I don't know where you found that high price $148.00 but it isn't right.

[@normanzurich2781]

La meilleure façon d’agir est d’acheter des graines aromatisées au piment 🌶 les oiseaux mangent ces graines sans danger pour eux MAIS les mammifères y renoncent à cause de l’odeur. Ces graines existent dans le commerce (pet food stores) ❤❤❤

[@UnchartedDIY]

Merci pour la suggestion! J'ai entendu dire que le poivre fonctionnait bien. Nous l'avons essayé et tous nos oiseaux ont arrêté de venir à la mangeoire. Je pense que nous avons juste des oiseaux très sélectifs (et capricieux) 😁

[@jklfds85]

Now how do you create a solution that protects your entire vegetable garden and fruit trees???

[@UnchartedDIY]

Well jkl, I have been searching Amazon and the rest of the internet, but it seems that no one makes a 40 foot diameter umbrella! Something like that might also cost a bit more than $20...😁

[@nunyabeezwax3058]

Since you are cutting the handle off the thing why not just drill a small hole in the top of the umbrella's metal cap and run the cable down thru the pipe that way you dont cut the cloth of the umbrella. you can also then run the wire thru the PVC fitting u used to stop it from swing and it will anchor it easier into the PVC fitting. also by running the cable thru the handle u can then connect to your feeder without cutting your feeder up as well, also with doing it this way IF they do crack how to get past the umbrella they then have a free swinging feeder to deal with that will prob toss them off after making any type of drop from the umbrella onto the feeder

[@UnchartedDIY]

Great question, nunya. I like the way you think! I did consider this option, but there are several reasons why it wouldn't work for me. The first is that the inside of the umbrella shaft contains the release mechanism, and this prevents passing the wire down through it. It looks hollow, but it isn't. The second is that my feeder would hang too low if it was attached to the bottom of the shaft. The squirrels would be able to jump up from the ground, and if you've ever watched how athletic they are, you know how easy it would be for them! If you make one, I'd love to see pictures, especially if you make modifications! You can post photos at uncharteddiy.com/squirrel-proof-feeder/

[@diannawatenpaugh6870]

We’ve tried everyyyyyything … we have 15 in our yard and unfortunately nothing works..

[@UnchartedDIY]

I can relate, Diana. They are so smart and agile! That's why I decided to try this idea that sounded crazy, and it works!

[@ireallyreallyhategoogle]

Nice, simple solution, unfortunately our feeders are not hanging from a tree.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Thanks for watching and commenting anyway!

[@dlarge860]

Put some Texas Pete on it they will only take a bit or two

[@UnchartedDIY]

Actually, D, we did try various forms of hot stuff, from sauce to cayenne pepper. Unfortunately, the squirrels didn't seem to mind the taste at all, and even asked for a side of tortilla chips! 😉 The birds weren't too impressed though, and we noticed a big drop off in "customers" at the feeders.

[@sleddy01]

I just feed squirrels. Much more relaxing hobby.

[@UnchartedDIY]

We do too and have done so all along. It's just they ignored their own food with peanuts and black oil sunflower seeds. Instead they went straight for the suet and ONLY the suet, preventing the birds from getting any. Now they are happy with their food and all the creatures in our yard are at peace! Check out the follow up video linked above to see them all enjoying the backyard.

[@coyoteheartdestinythesylph5902]

i don't know that we will do this--- though it is a great Idea... I live with my 88 year old dad and I dunno if this is how he will like to go...he has taken to chasing squirrels and tossing items at them---- either he will kill one or hurt himself... I think your idea is a very good and humane one... I will run the umbrella idea by him. LOL

[@UnchartedDIY]

While the mental picture I have of your dad chasing and throwing things at the squirrels is pretty funny and endearing, I think the umbrella would be much safer for everyone involved! Let me know how it goes!

[@normanrhone2791]

All this rocket science to thwart a tiny climbing animal.

[@UnchartedDIY]

To thwart incredibly agile, athletic tiny animals! If the Olympics accepted animal competitors, I'm convinced the squirrels would be bringing home the gold!

[@WillBravoNotEvil]

Norman Rhone Rocket Science? The tiny & climbing aspects are irrelevant. Domestic cats have decimated our bird population. This is just giving the birds a little better chance at survival. Although personally I’d just shoot or electrocute the f’ing tree rats.

[@larrysfarris]

I’ll be surprised if this becomes a long term solution due to the ease with which the squirrels will be able to penetrate the umbrella material. Let us have a follow up in a year and report how its held up.

[@UnchartedDIY]

I didn't expect it would be a long term solution either, but it's been over 13 months now, and it still looks great and not a single squirrel has made it onto the feeder! I can't explain why they don't bite or claw through the fabric. Not only has it withstood lots of squirrel attempts, but it has baffled the raccoons too. I have watched them hang from the branch, swinging to try to reach the feeder, and they go away empty handed!

[@larrysfarris]

@@UnchartedDIY Well according to my comment, I’m obviously surprised they haven’t ripped through the material in 13 months. I kept my sunflower seeds stored on my back porch in one of the large grey plastic trash bins (very thick industrial type plastic). And they chewed through it in a matter of days. I had to buy one of the old style metal garbage cans and wire down the lid in order to keep them out of the seed storage. Hard to understand how/why they haven’t found a way through the umbrella material. But continued good luck! 👍

[@mbgal7758]

I wanted to see the squirrels trying and failing to get in

[@UnchartedDIY]

They gave up trying so quickly we didn't get the chance! In a way, I'm disappointed since it's so much fun to see their creative problem solving in action!

[@mbgal7758]

UnchartedDIY They are quite intelligent. I saw a video where a guy made a whole obstacle course for them and they still got to the food in a couple days after the figured it all out. It was hilarious 😆

[@UnchartedDIY]

@@mbgal7758 I love that video!

[@penniprater5571]

My husband and I are old... So not too handy anymore. Our solution? Droll Yankee squirrel proof birdfeeders. They're expensive but last years and years. And yes, they're squirrel proof.

[@UnchartedDIY]

Those are nice feeders, Penni. I just didn't want too spend much, so I came up with this idea. Thanks for watching, and happy bird feeding!

[@lindadechiazza2924]

I just feed the mammals this DIY is a rube goldbergesque

[@watchdiscern135]

You didn't demonstrate it working🤔

[@UnchartedDIY]

Malakah, I would love to have footage of it keeping the squirrels off, but it has simply worked too well and I never had the opportunity. After the first couple of days, they decided they couldn't get past it and now have apparently forgotten all about it!