[AlanHo]

The rear garden of our house adjoins open fields and woodland. It was a major factor when we chose the house to avoid being over-looked by neighbours. A second bonus is the large variety of birds that visit the garden - attracted by the bird feeding stand which is kept replenished with a range of goodies to attract the various species.

The downside is that the buffet on display attracts squirrels and for longer than I care to admit I have been waging a technological war with them to stop them gobbling up the bird's food. I have bought all sorsts of so-called squirrel proof feeders (which didn't work) and have inventd more defence devices and gadgets than you could shake a stick at - but the little blighters always find a way to defeat me. Friends and family consider me to be quite bonkers and my battles have given them a source of much amusement over the years.  Until now.....

For more than a month now - despite the most persistent and fascinating attempts to get to the food by the little buggers - my latest defence has proved to be impregnable. And it was so simple.

I buy fat balls in plastic tubs which are roughly 35 cms diameter. Using a heated tube I melted a 25mm hole in the bottom to fit onto the feeding station pole and removed the top rim (with an electric soldering iron - cutting by knife, scissors or saw produces splits) so there was nothing for the squirrels to get a grip on. I then mounted it on the pole about head height (inverted) so that when a squirrel climbs the pole - as they still regularly do - it finds itself inside the tub. They are unable to reach out and grab the edge of the tub to climb around it........ Simples.

[Shambles]

Thanks for that idea Mr Ho.

I now own patent #324655432, so if you'd please apply to me for your license 

[AlanHo]

Thanks for that idea Mr Ho.

I now own patent #324655432, so if you'd please apply to me for your license 

You need to have strong words with your patent agent - they failed to reveal that I have well documented prior art. You have wasted your money and I will contest your patent application with full vigour......

[asathorny]

Well, not being as persistant as you I just gave up on feeding the little fellers becuase my squirels got promoted to RATS, at that point I just ceased feeding.   The main ALPHA rat got so large and cocky he didn't even bother to do a runner till I was almost within arms reach.   He did get very very fat tho, and one night last fall, it was dusk and I had not turned any lights on yet and my little doggie friend brought something in the house, which was of a similar size to himself (he's a Shi Tzu) and when I switched on a light it was Mr Ratty, Mr VERY BIG FAT RATTY..

Bird feeding ceased there and then.

I may now try your fail safe method, I shall be sueing you if it doesn't work, or, if Mr Ratty mark 2 comes a calling.

Thanks
Asa