Watching a squirrel scamper up a tree can be charming, but it can be frustrating to go to the trouble of setting up a bird feeder, only to have it raided by these fluffy thieves. Many birds need the extra food that gardeners provide in late spring, as they are either going through their mating season or returning to the UK after migrating for the winter.
If squirrels eat all the bird food, they may begin to rely heavily on feeders instead of foraging naturally. This can lead to squirrel overpopulation in your local area and may scare off birds, leaving you with fewer feathered friends visiting your garden.
However, the animal experts at Ark Wildlife have shared that there is a very easy way to deter squirrels and stop them stealing bird food, as all you need is a little spicy cayenne pepper.
They said: “This one feels almost too simple, but it works. Cayenne pepper is a natural squirrel deterrent; just sprinkle a little in the bird seed.
“Birds don’t have the same receptors for spicy heat, so they won’t notice, but squirrels will take one sniff and back away.”
Cayenne pepper will be hot and irritating to squirrels since they have very sensitive noses and taste buds, so they will stay far away from a bird feeder after having an unpleasant experience with the spice.
All you need to do is mix one tablespoon of cayenne pepper in with your bird seed mixture, and reapply whenever it has been raining, otherwise, the seasoning can wash off.
Make sure to wear gloves to make it easier to mix up the bird feed and lessen the chances of accidentally getting the spice in your eyes or mouth.
Squirrels are unlikely to come back after you use cayenne pepper, but you can also ensure they stay away by being careful about what bird seeds you have in your garden.
The expert said: “Not all bird food is equally attractive to squirrels. While they’ll devour sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet without a second thought, there are some options they’re less keen on.”
Safflower seeds have lots of fatty acids that birds will love, but have no nutrient benefit for squirrels, and they will quickly learn to leave them alone.
These seeds also have a sharp and bitter taste, which squirrels will hate, but like with cayenne pepper, it will have no effect on birds.
Taking the time to ward off your bird feeder properly will ensure you help out birds such as swallows, blackbirds, magpies and even robins while keeping bushy-tailed squirrels away naturally,