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If you love backyard wildlife, a dedicated squirrel feeder is like setting out a front-row seat for the theater of nature. Instead of watching squirrels raid bird feeders, you give them their own buffet and turn chaotic raids into charming visits. A purposeful feeder helps manage where squirrels feed, protects bird seed, and gives you predictable viewing—perfect for backyard photographers, families, and folks who just enjoy a little daily wildlife entertainment. Think of it as zoning your yard for animals: give each species its own space and the whole neighborhood runs smoother.
Platform feeders are simple, sturdy, and squirrel-friendly. These are flat trays or small decks that sit on poles or hang from branches and hold a variety of foods—nuts, shelled peanuts, corn, and even fruit. They’re easy to fill and to watch squirrels use, but they offer little protection from the weather and attract other critters. If you choose one, look for a model at least 12 inches wide so multiple squirrels can share, and consider a small roof or overhang to keep food dry.
Tubular or hopper feeders designed for squirrels typically have wider openings and sturdier perches than bird versions. Some models dispense food as squirrels pull or nudge, which keeps the food moving and reduces spoilage. If you prefer a contained look, a PVC tube about 6 inches in diameter makes a great homemade option. Commercial hoppers often hold several pounds—handy if you have a lot of visitors.
These are actually bird feeders designed to shut down under a squirrel’s weight or to use cages and baffles to block access. They’re not for squirrels, but they’re worth knowing: they let you feed birds without constant squirrel interference. If your goal is both bird and squirrel watching, pair a squirrel-proof bird feeder with a separate squirrel feeder to keep the peace.
Squirrel feeding stations are multi-tiered setups with several feeding cups or perches, often made of wood or heavy plastic. Some include puzzles or small doors to slow access, encouraging natural behaviors. Specialty feeders might offer compartments for whole nuts, sunflower hearts, or corn cobs. These stations can be decorative and functional, acting as garden focal points while satisfying local squirrels.
Home Depot carries a broad selection of squirrel and wildlife feeders across many price points. You’ll find everything from simple platform feeders for under $25 to larger wooden stations and metal baffles. The advantage is consistent stock, easy returns, and the ability to inspect materials in person if you shop in-store. Home Depot is a good first stop for basic hardware and feeder mounts, too.
Lowe’s stocks feeders similar to Home Depot but often focuses more on durable metal and decorative wooden models. If you want a feeder that doubles as a garden accent, Lowe’s tends to carry nice mid-range pieces between $30 and $100. They also stock poles, shepherd hooks, and mounting brackets sized in feet and inches, which helps with planning placement in your yard.
Walmart is a go-to for shoppers looking for inexpensive feeders and quick replacements. You can find tray feeders, hanging models, and small stations for under $20. The quality varies, so Walmart is best for casual hobbyists or those testing what their yard attracts before upgrading to a heavier-duty feeder.
For rural properties and heavy-duty use, Tractor Supply offers feeders built to last. Their models are often larger, resistant to chewers, and designed for larger wildlife. If you need a feeder that handles many visitors or harsh weather—think feeders that hold 10 pounds or more—check Tractor Supply for sturdy wood or metal options and pole-mount solutions that stand up to strong winds.
Wild Birds Unlimited is an independent chain that specializes in all things bird and wildlife. Their staff often provides hands-on advice about local species and the best feed types. Prices can be higher, but the selection includes specialty feeders and higher-quality materials, plus personalized recommendations to match your garden layout and local squirrel behavior.
Online marketplaces like Amazon offer enormous variety—from clever anti-squirrel gadgets to specialty wooden stations—delivered to your door. Amazon is great for reading thousands of customer reviews, comparing features, and finding brands you can’t always buy locally. Specialty online stores focused on wildlife or backyard birding also stock premium or custom feeders if you want something unique.
Look for steel, powder-coated metal, or rot-resistant wood like cedar. Plastic is light and cheap but can crack in freezing weather. If squirrels are regular visitors, plan for chewers; metal or heavy hardwood will last longer. Fastenings should be stainless steel or galvanized to avoid rust, and any seams should be smooth so squirrels don’t hurt themselves while feeding.
Capacity matters. A small feeder that holds 2 to 3 pounds is fine for one or two squirrels, but if you have a busy yard, go for models that hold 5 to 10 pounds. That reduces refill frequency. If you track consumption, expect heavy visiting yards to use roughly 1 to 2 pounds of nuts per week per feeder, depending on the number of squirrels.
Mounts and placement are critical. Squirrels are expert jumpers—place feeders at least 6 feet away from launch points such as fences, roofs, or tree trunks, and hang them at a height of 6 to 8 feet above the ground to reduce ground predators. Poles fitted with a 12- to 18-inch baffle are ideal. Think in feet and inches when you plan; a feeder 8 feet high and 6 feet from a deck is a good starting point.
Moisture is the enemy. Choose feeders with drainage holes or roofs that channel water away. Look for sloped roofs and trays with 1/4-inch drainage holes to keep seed dry. Weatherproof finishes and UV-resistant plastics help prevent fading and cracking under strong sun or freezing conditions.
If your main goal is observing and photographing squirrels, pick a feeder with a clear line of sight from a window or patio and a stable perch that lets squirrels sit comfortably. Models with several perches or a wide platform let multiple squirrels pose, and metal edges reduce wear. Position your feeder 10 to 15 feet from a window to capture action without startling the animals.
To keep birds fed and squirrels content, use a squirrel-proof bird feeder paired with a separate squirrel feeder. Squirrel feeders should be far enough—typically at least 6 feet—from bird feeders to discourage a jump between the two. Another tactic is to offer foods squirrels prefer, like peanuts in the shell, at the squirrel station so they leave bird feed alone.
Feeders that handle whole peanuts, sunflower hearts, corn cobs, or shelled mixes are excellent for attracting a variety of squirrels. Choose wide trays or specialty nut cups. If you’re feeding large quantities, invest in a feeder that holds at least 5 pounds to keep refill chores minimal.
If space is tight, compact hanging feeders and wall-mounted trays work well. A feeder roughly 8 to 10 inches across provides space without dominating the area. Keep the feeder hung so it’s about 6 feet above the floor of the yard or balcony and at least 3 to 4 feet from any railing or structure squirrels could launch from.
Want to craft a feeder that’s unique and budget-friendly? A 6-inch diameter PVC pipe about 24 inches long, capped at one end and drilled with feeding holes, makes a durable tube feeder—cap the bottom and add a screw-in eye bolt to hang it. For a platform, repurpose a 12-inch square piece of wood with a shallow lip and a weatherproof finish; mount it on a 1-1/2-inch steel pole and add a 12-inch metal baffle below to keep ground predators away. Pine or cedar planks, a few weatherproof screws, and basic tools are all you need to build something that’s both practical and charming.
Classic choices include unsalted, shelled or in-shell peanuts, sunflower seeds, corn, and small pieces of fruit. Offer treats in moderation—about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per feeding session for a small backyard—to avoid overfeeding. Avoid processed foods, chocolate, and anything with salt or seasoning. Natural, whole foods keep squirrels healthy and help maintain natural foraging behavior.
Squirrels are most active at dawn and late afternoon. Setting up a routine—refilling once in the morning and once midafternoon—creates predictable visits and gives you regular viewing windows. If you can’t maintain a schedule, choose a larger feeder so food is available longer and won’t spoil quickly.
Place feeders away from decks and play areas to reduce the chance of contact between squirrels and household pets. Keep feeders at least 6 feet from the eaves of houses to prevent squirrels from using feeders as a bridge onto roofs. Regular cleaning and proper food storage keep diseases at bay and ensure a healthy environment for urban wildlife.
Clean feeders at least once a month, more often in wet weather. Use a mild bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water—measureable as 1 cup bleach to 9 cups water—to sanitize trays and tubes, then rinse thoroughly and dry before refilling. Empty and replace wet or moldy food immediately. Inspect metal for rust and wood for rot; a yearly coat of outdoor-grade sealant on wooden parts extends life, and a quick repaint keeps metal looking new. Small maintenance tasks now save big replacement costs later.
Expect to spend anywhere from $15 for a simple plastic platform to $150 or more for decorative, heavy-duty stations. Mid-range sturdy feeders commonly cost $40 to $80. Remember ongoing seed costs: a busy yard might use 1 to 2 pounds per week, which adds up to roughly 50 to 100 pounds per year depending on traffic—so factor in $30 to $150 annually for food, depending on what you buy. Investing in durable materials often saves money over time compared with repeatedly replacing cheap feeders.
Choosing the right squirrel feeder comes down to your goals—do you want close-up viewing, to protect bird feeders, or to outfit a rural feeding station? Consider materials, capacity, mounting options, and where you’ll buy the feeder. Stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart, Tractor Supply, and specialty retailers like Wild Birds Unlimited cover most needs, and online marketplaces expand your choices. With the right feeder and a bit of planning—placement in feet and inches, durable materials, and regular maintenance—you’ll create a happier, tidier yard that's great for squirrels and for you.
