Bird feeders attract gorgeous feathered creatures, making your lawn and garden more scenic and peaceful. However, they may also attract raccoons who feast on the seed and make a mess of your yard. Wildlife control professionals recommend the following tips for keeping these critters at bay.  

4 Ways to Keep Bird Feeders Raccoon-Free 

1. Don’t Hang Them From Trees

Raccoons spend quite a bit of time in trees, so avoid hanging bird feeders from limbs and branches. Instead, hang them from hooks on mounted poles, walls, or fences. Though it doesn’t have to hang as high as a branch, the feeder should still be at least four feet off the ground so raccoons can’t reach.

2. Use a Baffle

For pole-mounted bird feeders, use a squirrel baffle to deter raccoons. These parts make it more challenging for raccoons to climb up the pole and jump onto the feeder. Keep in mind that you should still mount poles at least seven to eight feet from trees and rooftops so raccoons can’t leap to them. 

3. Take Them Inside at Night

Raccoons are nocturnal and tend to rummage for food at night. After sundown, bring your bird feeders inside. If this feels like a hassle, wildlife control experts suggest spraying repellant on the ground beneath the feeder and on the container and pole. 

4. Keep the Area Clean

Raccoons will have a clearer path to your bird feeders when birdseed scatters throughout the area. Clean up fallen birdseed from your lawn when you notice it. Doing so will make raccoons less curious about investigating the feeders above them. 

When raccoons, squirrels, and other animals become a problem on your property, get in touch with American Bio-Tech Wildlife Services in New Milford. Since 1971, these animal removal specialists have provided safe and humane wildlife control services to clients throughout Connecticut. Call (860) 355-1231 to make an appointment for wildlife control or home animal removal. Visit them online to learn more about their methods for keeping woodchucks, skunks, bats, and snakes off your property.