Squirrel repellent? (2 Viewers)

[neil calabro]

Hi,
I am new to the feeder forum & seeking the assistance of the list with a squirrel problem. I live in an apartment building (third floor) with a balcony. I have a sliding glass door to access the balcony. We have a small feeder suction cup mounted on the door. The area is pretty urbanized though there are some trees near the balcony. (The trees’ limbs are cut back annually). Squirrels have been jumping from the trees to our balcony to the feeder. I wish to remove the squirrels. My local gardening store recommends a product called “BioDefend Squirrel Repellent.” The manufacturer claims the product uses offensive smells and tastes (white pepper, vinegar, sulfur) to scare off the squirrels without injuring them. They also claim it is bird safe. I am considering spraying the substance around the balcony area though not on the feeder, food, or areas where food falls. My goal is to scare off squirrels without injuring them or the birds. Has anyone had experience with BioDefend or similar animal repellents? Are they safe for wildlife? Are they effective?
Best wishes,
Neil

 

[mattsharps]

Hi Neil.

Although I have not used BioDefend (I doubt they have it here in the UK) I shall recommend to you using hot chilli powder. Although I haven't tried the method (I am rather fond of the little devils) I hear that all you do is sprinkle a bit into your seed, give it a shuffle and thats it! Apparently, It is incredibly effective as the squirrels cannot stand the suff whilst birds couldn't care less!

Im sure your BioDefend would work perfectly well though!

MattSharps

 

[neil calabro]

Hi Matt,
Thanks for your recommendation. Can you recommend a ratio of seed to chili powder? (I have heard there is a point at which you can put down so much chili even the birds won't eat it).
Best,
Neil

Hi Neil.

Although I have not used BioDefend (I doubt they have it here in the UK) I shall recommend to you using hot chilli powder. Although I haven't tried the method (I am rather fond of the little devils) I hear that all you do is sprinkle a bit into your seed, give it a shuffle and thats it! Apparently, It is incredibly effective as the squirrels cannot stand the suff whilst birds couldn't care less!

Im sure your BioDefend would work perfectly well though!

MattSharps

 

[mattsharps]

Update for you Neil

I cant seem to find the correct amount you hould put in. I'd say enough so it is about 10 seeds to a grain or two of chilli powder. or you could use tobasco

I have also found out that chilli powder contains a vitamin that is good for birds. You cant go wrong, really.

MattSharps

 

[neil calabro]

Thanks for your assistance. I will modify the bird seed with red cayenne pepper tomorrow. Hopefully the squirrels will be miserable & discouraged!

 

[Melinda_B]

Why not try thistle (nyjer) seed instead of whatever seed you feed your birds? According to YardEnvy.com, squirrels do not like the taste of thistle seed. That is one route we are going to try. We are putting our birdfeeder up this weekend.