4 Ways to Raccoon-Proof Your Bird Feeder

Keep Raccoons Away From Bird Feeders

Courtesy Tiffany Wagner

“Baffles are not keeping raccoons away from my feeders. Are there any effective deterrents that won’t harm birds or other wildlife?” asks Birds & Blooms reader Victor Reed of Port Townsend, Washington.

Birding experts Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman say, “Unfortunately, raccoons are smart, strong and agile.” Here are some methods that they recommend to raccoon-proof your bird feeders.

Also check out our picks for the best squirrel-proof bird feeders and 12 tips that work.

Try Raccoon Baffles

To keep them off feeders, the baffle must be much larger than the ones designed to deter squirrels. Wrapping a smooth sheet of metal around the pole up to 4 feet high, and placing a wide baffle above that, should stop raccoons from climbing.

Learn how to keep squirrels from digging up flower pots and bulbs.

Keep Feeders Away From Trees

Kathleen Reeder Wildlife Photography/Getty Images

After you add baffles to raccoon-proof a bird feeder from the ground, it’s also necessary to place the feeder away from any tall structure or tree that raccoons can jump from.

Do safflower seeds deter squirrels?

Keep Your Bird Feeding Station Clean

To avoid attracting raccoons in the first place, attach a tray under the feeder to stop food from falling, and sweep up any that accumulates on the ground.

Is hot pepper bird seed safe for birds?

Take Feeders Down Before Dark

Courtesy William Anekstein

Raccoons tend to be primarily nocturnal (meaning they are more active after dark), so it may help to use detachable or hanging feeders and bring them in at night.

Psst—if you can’t beat them, enjoy them. These funny raccoon pictures will make you smile today.

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Sources

Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman, official birding experts for Birds & Blooms