Looking to keep those pesky squirrels away from your bird feeders? Look no further than the effective squirrel-proof bird feeders. With two main designs – cages and weight-sensitive feeding port perches – these feeders are designed to keep squirrels out while allowing birds easy access to the food. To make it even more difficult for squirrels to reach the feeders, baffles can be added to poles or cables. For those dealing with larger squirrels and birds, some feeders even have wire cages surrounding them. One notable option is the Droll Yankees Flipper, a battery-powered squirrel-proof bird feeder that spins when a squirrel is detected. While reviews praise its ability to keep squirrels out, there have been complaints about the battery, which is a NiCad battery that must be fully discharged before recharging to avoid memory effects. Overall, the decision to purchase the Flipper feeder depends on personal preferences and tolerance for dealing with the battery.
Designs to Keep Squirrels Out of Bird Feeders
Cage Design
One effective design to keep squirrels out of bird feeders is the cage design. These feeders have a wire mesh cage surrounding the seed compartment, allowing smaller birds to enter and feed while keeping larger squirrels out. The cage design is highly effective at preventing squirrels from accessing the bird seed, making it a popular choice among bird enthusiasts.
Weight-sensitive Feeding Port Perches
Another design that is effective in deterring squirrels from bird feeders is the weight-sensitive feeding port perch. These feeders are equipped with perches that are designed to close off access to the seed compartment when a certain weight is applied. This means that when a squirrel lands on the perch, its weight triggers the mechanism and closes off the feeding ports, preventing the squirrel from accessing the bird seed.
Adding Baffles to Poles or Cables
In addition to the specific feeder designs mentioned above, another way to keep squirrels away from bird feeders is by adding baffles to poles or cables. Baffles are essentially conical or dome-shaped devices that can be attached to the poles or cables supporting the bird feeder. The purpose of the baffle is to make it more difficult for squirrels to climb up and reach the feeder. When installed correctly, baffles can be highly effective in preventing squirrels from accessing the bird seed.
Bird Feeders with Wire Cages
Some bird feeders on the market come with wire cages surrounding them. These feeders are designed to exclude larger squirrels and birds while still allowing smaller birds to access the seed. The wire cage acts as a barrier, making it much more challenging for squirrels to reach the bird seed. Bird feeders with wire cages are a popular choice for those who want to deter not only squirrels but also larger birds from their feeders.
The Droll Yankees Flipper
Description and Features
One of the most innovative and effective squirrel-proof bird feeders on the market is the Droll Yankees Flipper. This battery-powered feeder is designed to spin when a squirrel is detected, effectively knocking the squirrel off and preventing it from accessing the bird seed. The Flipper feeder has a capacity of up to 5 pounds of bird seed and features four feeding ports, making it ideal for attracting a variety of bird species.
Effectiveness in Keeping Squirrels Out
According to numerous reviews, the Droll Yankees Flipper is highly effective at keeping squirrels out of bird feeders. Many bird enthusiasts report that since installing the Flipper feeder, they have seen a significant decrease in squirrel activity around their feeders. The spinning mechanism is quick and responsive, ensuring that squirrels are quickly deterred from accessing the bird seed.
Battery Complaints
While the effectiveness of the Droll Yankees Flipper in keeping squirrels out is widely praised, there are some complaints regarding the battery. The Flipper feeder operates on a NiCad battery, which needs to be discharged fully before recharging to avoid memory effects. Some users find this process cumbersome and time-consuming, as it requires monitoring the battery levels and manually discharging it.
Using NiCad Batteries
Discharging Fully Before Recharging
NiCad batteries, like the one used in the Droll Yankees Flipper, have a memory effect that can reduce their overall capacity if they are not fully discharged before being recharged. This means that it is important to allow the battery to fully drain before recharging it to ensure optimal performance. While this may require some effort and attention, it is crucial for maintaining the longevity of the battery.
Advantages and Disadvantages
NiCad batteries have some advantages over other battery types. They tend to last longer in cold weather conditions, making them suitable for outdoor bird feeders that are exposed to harsh temperatures. Additionally, NiCad batteries are generally more robust and durable compared to lithium-ion batteries. However, they are slightly harder to find on the market compared to other battery types.
Availability and Cost
In terms of availability, NiCad batteries can be purchased from various retailers that specialize in batteries and electronic devices. However, due to their slightly decreased popularity compared to other battery types, they may not be as readily available in all locations. It is important to consider this factor when deciding to purchase a bird feeder that operates on NiCad batteries. Additionally, NiCad batteries can be more expensive than other battery types, which is an important factor to consider when calculating the overall cost of maintaining the Flipper feeder.
Issues with the Flipper Feeder
Seed Spilling Out
Some users have reported issues with the Droll Yankees Flipper feeder, specifically regarding seed spillage. The spinning motion of the feeder can sometimes cause the seed to spill out, leading to waste and potential mess around the feeder. While this may not directly impact the feeder’s effectiveness in keeping squirrels out, it is an important aspect to consider for those who value cleanliness and tidiness in their bird feeding area.
Difficulties with Battery Recharging
As mentioned earlier, the process of discharging the NiCad battery fully before recharging can be seen as a drawback for some users. Monitoring and managing the battery levels can be time-consuming and may require additional effort. This aspect should be carefully considered by potential buyers, especially those who prefer a more straightforward and hassle-free maintenance process.
Considerations before Purchasing the Flipper Feeder
Personal Preferences
Before purchasing the Droll Yankees Flipper feeder, it is essential to consider personal preferences. Some individuals may find the spinning mechanism and battery maintenance requirements to be a great and exciting addition to their bird feeding setup, while others may prefer a simpler and more low-maintenance option.
Tolerance for Dealing with the Battery
The battery-related aspects of the Flipper feeder, such as discharging fully before recharging and potential difficulties in managing the battery, should also be taken into account. Assessing one’s tolerance for dealing with these aspects can help determine whether the Flipper feeder is the right choice or if a different squirrel-proof bird feeder design would be more suitable.
In conclusion, there are various effective designs available to keep squirrels out of bird feeders. From cage designs and weight-sensitive feeding port perches to the innovative Droll Yankees Flipper feeder, bird enthusiasts have several options to choose from. Each design has its advantages and considerations, and it is crucial to assess personal preferences and tolerance for maintenance before making a purchase decision. By selecting a squirrel-proof bird feeder that meets individual needs, bird lovers can ensure that their feathered friends enjoy uninterrupted access to bird seed while keeping squirrels at bay.
