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  • 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders UK 2024 1
  • 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders UK 2024 2
  • 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders UK 2024 3
  • 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders UK 2024 4
  • 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders UK 2024 5

10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders UK 2024

The UK has a varied and vibrant range of birds, with both native and visiting species making the British Isles their home throughout the year. Feeding birds provides a necessary role in encouraging bird populations by providing essential nutrients that may be lacking in their environment depending on location and time of year. Placing a bird feeder in your garden, whether hung from branches or poles, is a great way to help our feathered friends.

However, bird feeders may also encourage certain unwanted visitors. Greedy squirrels love to gobble up nuts, seeds, and suet fat balls before the birds can get a look in! In this article, we show you how to prevent pesky critters by sharing our top tips on how to find the best squirrel-proof bird feeder, and introduce the best bird feeders with baffles and cages, or those that spin, to buy online on eBay and Amazon.
Last updated 25/03/2024

Quick List - Top Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders

1

Jacobi Jayne

Squirrel Buster Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Mini
Squirrel Buster Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Mini

Defend Attacks From Every Angle

2

Droll Yankees

Yankee Dipper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
Yankee Dipper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

Weight-Activated Dipper for Protection Against Squirrels

3

Gardman

Decorative Bronze Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder
Decorative Bronze Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder

Fuss-Free Caged Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

4

Peckish

Bird Seed Feeder for Small Birds
Bird Seed Feeder for Small Birds

Protection From the Elements for the Smaller Winged Visitors

5

Gardman

Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Seed Bird Feeder
Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Seed Bird Feeder

Heavy-Duty Bird Feeder That Shuts Squirrels Out

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder in the UK ― Buying Guide

Squirrels are smart and athletic, with strong teeth and agile hands that make light work of standard bird feeders. It’s important to select a bird feeder that comes with safety measures such as weight sensitive perches, cages or baffles to foil thieves. Here we will describe the different types of squirrel-proof bird feeders.
1

Stop Squirrels With Weight Sensitive, Spring-Loaded Perches

Stop Squirrels With Weight Sensitive, Spring-Loaded Perches
Many squirrel-proof bird feeders account for the weight difference between small garden birds and squirrels in the design of their preventative functionality. The average robin weighs around 14 to 21 grams whereas a grey squirrel will weigh somewhere around 600 grams or more!


One method bird feeders use to safeguard against squirrels is to use weight sensitive perches. The perches are attached to the feeder via a spring mechanism; birds will be able to land safely on them and tuck in, however, if a certain weight limit is exceeded a shutter will come down over the opening sealing it shut.


A downside to weight sensitive perches is that squirrels are incredibly nimble, and it is possible that over time some may learn how to bypass this mechanism by hanging upside down from the body of the feeder. These feeders will also prevent larger birds such as crows and jackdaws from accessing food, which may or may not be a good thing depending on your intentions.

2

Caged Bird Feeders Guard Against Large Intruders

Caged Bird Feeders Guard Against Large Intruders
Caged bird feeders are designed in a similar way to weight sensitive perches. These bird feeders come in two parts; an internal feeding tube which can be filled with seeds, nuts or fat/suet balls, encased in a larger external cage.


The outer cage is wired in a way that takes into account the fact that squirrels are much larger than birds. Small birds can fit through the gaps easily to gain access to treats inside, while squirrels’ bulky bodies will leave them stuck on the outside.


Although large birds will face much the same access issues as with weighted perches, long beaked varieties may be able to reach inside depending on the feeder’s specifications. Note that caged feeders will also still be accessible to small rodents who can be as troublesome as squirrels.

3

Squirrel Baffles Prevent Jumping and Climbing on to Bird Feeders

Squirrel Baffles Prevent Jumping and Climbing on to Bird Feeders
If you hang your feeder from a branch or hook where the squirrel can drop down, the baffle is best situated above. For feeders attached to poles installing a baffle underneath the feeder or to the pole itself is a good idea to stop squirrels from climbing up.


Avoid platform style squirrel baffles as the flat surfaces give squirrels a better chance of gaining purchase and clinging on.

4

Spinning Feeders Prevent Squirrels from Hanging On

Spinning Feeders Prevent Squirrels from Hanging On
Spinning feeders are a modern addition to the arsenal of squirrel-proofing devices one can purchase for their garden. A modern electronic update of the baffle, as the squirrel jumps on to the feeder a weight activated motor causes the device to start spinning, sending the un-expecting rodent flying off. Even the most persistent hangers on eventually become dizzy and lose their footing.


Squirrels are robust creatures and the rotations of the device are calibrated in such a way as to avoid causing harm or long lasting effects, making them perfectly safe to use. Note that you will need to change the batteries regularly to keep motorised feeders running. They are also a bit more pricy than usual bird feeders which is something to keep in mind.

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Top 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders in the UK

Now we have given you some food for thought on the most effective methods of squirrel prevention, on to our top 10 ranking best squirrel proof bird feeders in the UK!
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Jacobi Jayne

Squirrel Buster Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Mini

Jacobi Jayne Squirrel Buster Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Mini 1

Defend Attacks From Every Angle

2

Droll Yankees

Yankee Dipper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

Droll Yankees Yankee Dipper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder 1

Weight-Activated Dipper for Protection Against Squirrels

3

Gardman

Decorative Bronze Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder

Gardman Decorative Bronze Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder 1

Fuss-Free Caged Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

4

Peckish

Bird Seed Feeder for Small Birds

Peckish Bird Seed Feeder for Small Birds 1

Protection From the Elements for the Smaller Winged Visitors

5

Gardman

Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Seed Bird Feeder

Gardman  Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Seed Bird Feeder 1

Heavy-Duty Bird Feeder That Shuts Squirrels Out

6

Roamwild

Squirrel Proof Wild Bird Feeder

Roamwild Squirrel Proof Wild Bird Feeder 1

A Large Capacity Bird Feeder With Two Weighted Perches

7

Happy Beaks

Hanging Squirrel Proof Domed Wild Bird Feeder

Happy Beaks Hanging Squirrel Proof Domed Wild Bird Feeder 1

Domed for Protection But Still Allows Birds to Feed

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Jacobi Jayne
Squirrel Buster Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Mini

Squirrel Buster Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Mini 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£34.99
Mid
Reference price
£34.99
Mid

Defend Attacks From Every Angle

Squirrels will quickly become frustrated trying to infiltrate the Squirrel Buster bird feeder. Climbing from above or from the sides forces down the outside cage, sealing off access to the ports. Jumping up or trying to access food from the perches is equally futile, denying attacks from all angles.

Made from 100% non-toxic chew-proof materials, you won’t have to worry about sharp teeth breaking through the outer casing and getting in through the body of the feeder. The Squirrel Buster comes in a range of different sizes and styles to appeal to different varieties of birds and to suit every garden!
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No.2

Droll Yankees
Yankee Dipper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

Yankee Dipper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£108.18
High
Reference price
£108.18
High

Weight-Activated Dipper for Protection Against Squirrels

The Yankee Dipper is one of the sturdiest squirrel proof bird feeders on the market. The seed tube is topped off with a snug fitting metal cap that prevents even the most tenacious of squirrels from ripping it off. 53 centimetres in length, it’s impossible for squirrels to gain access to the feeding ports by hanging down and the girth of the tube prohibits climbing.

Birds can feed from four adequately spaced feeding ports by landing on the metal perches which are calibrated to support the weight of multiple small breeds of birds. However, if a squirrel lands on the perch, it’s weight triggers the perches to collapse under the weight, safely deterring it.
No.3

Gardman
Decorative Bronze Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder

Decorative Bronze Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£11.99
Low Mid

Fuss-Free Caged Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

Peanuts are a fantastic, versatile food for feeding wild birds. While robins and wrens love to eat peanuts all year round, unfortunately so do squirrels! Keep them away with Gardman’s squirrel proof bird feeder. Peanuts are held in an easy to fill, fine mesh tube behind a wide outside cage with especially narrow gaps suitable for songbirds.

The small holes of the mesh require birds to peck and break the nuts up into small pieces rather than eating them whole. If a squirrel does manage to get through to the inside their teeth will be far too large to successfully nibble at the peanuts.
No.4

Peckish
Bird Seed Feeder for Small Birds

Bird Seed Feeder for Small Birds 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.81
Low Mid
Reference price
£12.81
Low Mid

Protection From the Elements for the Smaller Winged Visitors

Peckish’s bird feeder provides shelter from the elements allowing birds to feed safely rain or shine. The centre of the feeder can be filled with nuts, seeds and mealworms, with openings near the base for easy snacking.

This feeder is designed specifically for small birds such as finches, blue tits and goldcrests. Birds enter and exit via portals in the protective outer casing. The tiny size of the entrance portals makes it impossible for even the most svelte squirrel to squeeze through keeping the central feeding chamber safe.
No.5

Gardman
Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Seed Bird Feeder

Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Seed Bird Feeder 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£23.99
Mid
Reference price
£23.99
Mid

Heavy-Duty Bird Feeder That Shuts Squirrels Out

A uniquely designed seed feeder, which provides maximum protection to squirrels and large birds. The body of the feeder is a tough plastic canister that squirrels will not be able to break into! Inside is segmented to funnel seeds into four ports with perches, so no bird will be left hungry.

This feeder uses a heavy-duty cast iron cage to its advantage to keep squirrels out, but attracts a number of small birds from Blue Tits, Robins, Finches and House Sparrows. There is also a safe biocidal coating on the feeder that kills bacteria on contact, but it will still need to be cleaned regularly with disinfectant.
No.6

Roamwild
Squirrel Proof Wild Bird Feeder

Squirrel Proof Wild Bird Feeder 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£64.78
High Mid
Reference price
£64.78
High Mid

A Large Capacity Bird Feeder With Two Weighted Perches

Food can only be accessed through the ports by landing on one of the perches. If a squirrel attempts to get at the food, their weight will move the perch downwards and block off the feeding port entirely. The two ports are individually spring loaded so more than one bird can feed at the same time and the large 1.5 litre capacity means plenty of seed with less refilling.

Totally weather-proof, the built-in weather guard prevents seed clogging, a common problem among weight activated bird feeders that jams door mechanisms and stops them working. This feeder also keeps out larger feathered predators such as crows and jackdaws.
No.7

Happy Beaks
Hanging Squirrel Proof Domed Wild Bird Feeder

Hanging Squirrel Proof Domed Wild Bird Feeder 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£21.99
Mid
Reference price
£21.99
Mid

Domed for Protection But Still Allows Birds to Feed

The smooth surface area and lack of places to grip means squirrels will have great difficulty climbing up or clinging on while birds can fly in and out with ease. The domed baffle protects the feeding tray from the weather and prevents squirrels from leaping down onto the feeder. Even better, the height can be adjusted to cater to both large and small birds.

The feeding tray is very exposed so it is possible for squirrels to reach in from nearby trees or branches. Avoid this by hanging the feeder in an area sufficiently far away from trees, bushes or anything which may provide an overhanging platform from which the tray can be accessed.

Consider the Placement of Your Feeder to Prevent Squirrel Attacks

Consider the Placement of Your Feeder to Prevent Squirrel Attacks
Squirrels may be small, but be warned: they are incredibly good jumpers and climbers! Squirrels can jump to heights of 5-6 feet vertically and 7 feet across. When leaping downwards they can fly an impressive 11 feet! So always make sure to place bird feeders far enough away from trees, buildings and any other structures rodent robbers may be able to propel themselves from.


While suspending your bird feeder from a pole may keep it far enough away from jump off points, squirrels are especially adept climbers. They can wind their way up a pole in a matter of seconds, so it’s a good idea to improve your defences by greasing the pole with cooking oil or Vaseline, or by investing in a cylindrical baffle.

Distract Them With a Squirrel Feeder

Distract Them With a Squirrel Feeder
Once you have your defences in place there is one more tactic you can try to dissuade squirrels from bothering your bird feeder; tempt them away with a squirrel feeder! Providing squirrels with their own easy to access food station is a good distraction tactic.


Try putting up a snack box in your garden and filling it with squirrel-friendly treats! Squirrels will quickly learn how to lift the lid of the box to get their fill without having to compete with the birds, keeping everyone happy.

Summary

Conserving British wildlife is a noble cause, and providing a suitable food source for birds lets you help out at home in a fun and enjoyable way! We hope this article has given you some great ideas on how to choose the best and most effective squirrel proof bird feeder online.


Author: Wren Mann

Top 5 Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders

No. 1: Jacobi JayneSquirrel Buster Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Mini

No. 2: Droll YankeesYankee Dipper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

No. 3: GardmanDecorative Bronze Squirrel Proof Peanut Feeder

No. 4: PeckishBird Seed Feeder for Small Birds

No. 5: Gardman Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Seed Bird Feeder

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