When it comes to bird feeding, one of the most common sources of frustration is putting out food for your lovely backyard birds only to have marauding squirrels come by and take it all away.It is one of the most well-known and effective ways to prevent squirrels from gaining access to the birds' food that is made of baffles, which are used to literally baffle them from gaining access to the birds' food.Squirrels are notoriously difficult to deter from gaining access to bird food, and this is one of the most well-known and effective methods available.

Additionally, squirrel baffles are inexpensive and simple to install, and they will keep squirrels away from your bird feeders and other food sources for a long period of time if installed correctly.Continue reading for some valuable information on baffles that will assist you in making the most of your baffles, assuming that is the case.Baffling bird feeders is available in two different variations, with the first one being mounted above the feeder and the second one being mounted below it.It is possible to use these two different types of baffles in order to keep squirrels away from bird feeders.They're both made of metal, which is convenient.While the top baffle is most often associated with hanging feeders, it can also be used with pole feeders in certain circumstances.However, the bottom baffle is only used with pole feeders, and not with hanging feeders, as the name implies.

The bottom baffles are frequently shaped like a lampshade or in the shape of a cylindrical tube, which makes it easier for squirrels to slide down them when compared to the top baffles, which are typically dome-shaped and sloped to the point at which squirrels will slide down them.Designs for each of these types of layouts can be found in the photos to the left, which show examples of each type of design.

It doesn't matter which type of squirrel baffle is used; the end result is always the same: it prevents squirrels from getting access to bird feeders or other food sources.If the baffles are in good working order, squirrels have a difficult time navigating around them.

Due to the fact that baffles, whether they are top or bottom baffles, are custom made to the specifications of the customer, they are not available in a standard size.There is a widespread belief that the top baffles should be approximately 15 or 16 inches in width, and this is supported by numerous studies.If the size of the obstruction is large enough to act as an impediment to squirrels feeding on a specific feeder, as determined by the manufacturer, the baffle should be effective.

Because the vast majority of squirrel baffles are made of smooth plastic or metal, squirrels have a difficult time gaining the necessary grip to maneuver around the obstruction in their path.As an added feature, it is intended that some of the top baffles that are not attached to the feeder move in tandem with the squirrel rather than remaining in one fixed position.The baffle is tipping and bobbing in an attempt to throw the squirrel off balance as much as possible while it is navigating its way around the smooth surface in which it is traveling.

Given that they are permanently attached to the pole on which the feeder is mounted, the bottom baffles are generally immobile; however, they still serve as a formidable deterrent to squirrels who attempt to scale the pole and gain access to the feeder via the bottom baffles.

It should go without saying that the type of baffle you choose is entirely up to your own personal taste in this matter.It is critical to understand why the top or bottom baffle is preferable before making a decision.However, providing an answer to that question is not particularly difficult for you because you are the only one who has the ability to do so.First and foremost, take a step back and observe which direction the squirrels in your yard appear to be most inclined to steal food from the birds in your backyard.You are free to carry on in this manner for as long as you deem appropriate.

According to the manufacturer, the most appropriate choice for shimmying feeder poles would be a pole with any type of bottom baffle, depending on your specific situation, and this would be the most appropriate choice.It will be necessary to install a top baffle if the squirrels are jumping out of trees or other high places and scrambling down feeders in order to reach the food, as this will prevent them from continuing their journey in order to reach the food.As long as you arm yourself with this knowledge, dealing with squirrels will be a piece of cake in no time.Congratulations on a productive birding season this year!