winter feeding
Squirrel Feeder: How to set up a suitable feeding station
The squirrel feeder should be placed at an appropriate height to protect the rodents from predators
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In the fall, squirrels stock up for the winter. If natural food is scarce 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. Tending to wildlife is not usually necessary, but may be advisable in the city and when the winter is very harsh and the ground freezes, preventing the squirrels from accessing their hidden food. However, you should not feed according to personal gut feeling, but pay attention to species-appropriate feeding. This means you have to use unprocessed food that the animals would otherwise eat and choose the right feeding place. Here you can find out what needs to be considered and how to choose a suitable feeder for squirrels.
Where should you place the squirrel feeder?
Always place the squirrel 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 put the squirrels at increased risk. The higher the feeding house is placed, the faster the animals can save themselves in case of danger.
Feeder for squirrels: This is important to note
- In order to avoid a possible mold infestation and diseases associated with it, you should clean the feeder regularly. The droppings of the animals can also lead to contamination of the feeding place. The WWF therefore recommends covering the floor with newspaper so that cleaning can be done quickly.
- That Squirrel feeder must be covered so the food for the squirrels can’t get wet and moldy. The roof also offers wildlife protection from natural enemies in the air.
- The bird feeder should have a device to put it in reasonable amount attached to a tree trunk to protect the rodents from predators on the ground.
These squirrel 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.
Feed box made of wood
Wooden bird feeders are classic. This bird feeder consists of weatherproof pine wood and comes from a German production in the Black Forest. The granulated film on the roof is said to be an effective moisture barrier and protect the rodents’ food from moisture and mould.
Metal feeder
This 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.
Bird house as a feeder
Large birdhouses that squirrels and birds can share are also a good option. This birdhouse consists of easy-care plastic, has a transparent silo for checking the feed level and filling is easy through the roof opening. A suitable hanging cord is included.
Source: WWF
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