Squirrel baffle

A squirrel baffle is a device designed to deter squirrels, raccoons and other small mammals from climbing birdfeeder poles to retrieve birdseed. They are typically mounted on the pole of a birdfeeder.

Squirrel baffles vary in design. One type may employ a rotating cylinder to destabilize the climbing surface, while another will feature a large round tube difficult for a squirrel to grab onto. Other designs include tapered cones and sloped disks. Many squirrel baffles are made of painted metal or plastic, in order to create a slippery surface.

The roof of a hanging birdfeeder can also be designed to act as a baffle.

Squirrel baffles are often cited as proof that humanity and its technologies cannot overcome a determined creature. While it is true that most installations of this device fail to prevent raccoons and squirrels from climbing onto bird feeders, the cause of such failures do not rest solely with the baffle. The opportunities afforded by nearby trees, buildings and wires must always be taken into account. In the case of nocturnal raids by flying squirrels, little can be done.

Providing an alternate equivalent food source in conjunction with a squirrel baffle is often the best way to minimize unwanted visits to a birdfeeder.