Winter feeding
Squirrel bird feeder: how to set up a suitable feeding station
The squirrel bird feeder should be placed at a reasonable height to protect the rodents from predators
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In autumn, squirrels build up their winter supplies. When natural food is in short supply during the cold season, a bird feeder can support the rodents. Read here what you need to consider when setting up the feeding station.
Due to the cold temperatures, squirrels have an increased energy requirement in winter. Caring for wild animals is usually not necessary, but it can be recommended in the city and when the winter is very hard and the ground freezes so that the squirrels can no longer get to their hidden food. However, you should not feed according to your personal gut feeling, but pay attention to species-appropriate feeding. This means that you have to use untreated food that the animals otherwise eat and choose the right feeding point. Here you can find out what to watch out for and how to choose a suitable bird feeder for squirrels.
Where should you place the bird feeder for the squirrels?
Always place the squirrel bird feeder high up. The small rodents have an innate escape behavior and in this way protect themselves from their natural enemies. If you set up the feeding station close to the ground, you could expose the squirrels to increased danger. The higher the bird feeder is, the faster the animals can rescue themselves in the event of danger.
Feeder for squirrels: this is important to note
- In order to avoid possible mold growth and associated diseases, you should clean the bird feeder regularly. The animal’s droppings can also contaminate the feeding station. The WWF therefore recommends covering the floor with newspaper so that cleaning is quick and easy.
- That Squirrel bird feeder must be covered so that the food cannot get wet and moldy for the squirrels. In addition, the roof offers the wild animals protection from natural enemies in the air.
- The bird feeder should have a device to get it in reasonable amount to be able to attach to a tree trunk in order to protect the rodents from enemies on the ground.
These squirrel bird feeders exist
You can choose between different bird feeders. Whether classic made of wood or robust made of metal, you will find a selection of different feeding stations here.
Wooden feed box
Bird feeders made of wood are classic. This Bird feeder consists of weatherproof pine wood and comes from a German production facility in the Black Forest. The granulated film on the roof is supposed to be an effective moisture barrier and protect the rodents’ food from moisture and mold.
Metal feeder
These Metal feeding station is easy to care for. The squirrels can lift the light lid on their own and the food is well protected from moisture and other animals.
Birdhouse as a feeder
Large bird feeders that squirrels and birds can share are also a great option. This Bird house consists of easy-care plastic, has a transparent silo for monitoring the feed level and filling is easy through the roof opening. A suitable hanging cord is included.
Source: WWF
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