How to Clean a Squirrel Buster Bird Feeder
There are a few different ways to clean your Squirrel Buster bird feeder, from removing sticky food particles to preventing the wood from becoming damaged. The Squirrel Buster Plus and Mini feeders can both be cleaned with a 20% water and vinegar solution, though the latter should not be put in the dishwasher. Instead, you can safely clean the feeder using water and white vinegar. This combination won’t damage the feeder, and it will not affect the bird food.
Bleach solution
A bleach solution is a safe alternative to disinfecting a bird feeder. The ratio of one part of bleach to nine parts water is the most effective disinfectant solution and should be applied at least once a week. Depending on the level of dirt and grime in the feeder, you may need to scrub it with soapy water and then apply the bleach solution. Afterwards, it is important to rinse the feeder thoroughly and apply mild dish soap to remove any residue of bleach.
Cleaning all feeder parts
To clean the Squirrel Buster bird feeder, you can use warm water and dish detergent. Rinse thoroughly with a weak solution of bleach. Follow this procedure for at least 10 minutes and then dry the feeder completely. Use a bottle brush to clean any parts that are difficult to reach. You can also soak the feeder in bleach solution for 30 to 60 minutes, then rinse with clean water. This process will remove any remaining scum and bacteria from the feeder.
Avoiding sticky substances around feeders
To hang a squirrel buster bird feeder, you can use the suspension technique. You will need two trees at least 10 feet apart, and a single wire positioned from dead center to dead end. The feeder should be free of any slick or sticky substances to prevent the squirrels from reaching it. Another option is to hang a spinner from the wire, such as a plastic soda bottle or PVC piping.
Maintaining attractiveness of wood
If you want to attract more birds to your backyard, you should think about squirrel-proof bird feeders. These types of feeders typically feature intricate mechanisms or added features to make them resistant to squirrels. However, the level of attraction of a feeder will depend on its construction, location, seed type, and level of maintenance. In the winter, this maintenance is even more crucial. Here are a few tips for maintaining the attractiveness of wood for squirrel-proof feeders.
Defending wood against mold and mildew
To prevent the growth of mold and mildew on your bird feeder, you must protect it from the elements. To do this, you should protect the wood with a suitable stain. Cedar wood has good weathering properties and can remain functional for many years. Although, it will fade in color with time. To maintain its color, you can use linseed oil or a water-soluble stain.
Filling with seeds
Squirrel Buster bird feeders are the best way to attract these colorful creatures to your yard. These feeders feature padded perches and a divided tray to prevent contamination. They are easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about fungus and bacteria building up. You can also adjust the perches to make the feeder more attractive to larger birds. To prevent clogging, you can also add an optional Cardinal Ring, a heavy plastic ring attached to the metal spoke perches. This adds a unique perch position that Cardinals like to utilize.
Cleaning perches
Keeping your backyard birds happy and healthy requires regular maintenance and cleaning. It is vital to ensure that the feeder is free from debris, mold and other harmful elements that could infect wild birds. In order to avoid these problems, follow these steps to maintain the cleanliness of your feeder. Wet weather is a common culprit for mold and mildew growth. You can also clean your feeder with a good-quality cleaning product.
Is it necessary to clean the bird feeder?
Yes it is necessary to clean the bird feeder in order to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
How often should the bird feeder be cleaned?
The bird feeder should be cleaned at least once a week.
What is the best way to clean the bird feeder?
The best way to clean the bird feeder is to rinse it with hot water and soap.
What should be done if the bird feeder is dirty?
If the bird feeder is dirty it should be taken apart and cleaned with hot water and soap.
How can the bird feeder be prevented from getting dirty?
The bird feeder can be prevented from getting dirty by wiping it down with a damp cloth after each use.
What is the best way to clean the inside of the bird feeder?
The best way to clean the inside of the bird feeder is to rinse it with hot water and soap.
What is the best way to clean the outside of the bird feeder?
The best way to clean the outside of the bird feeder is to wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Can the bird feeder be cleaned with bleach?
No the bird feeder should not be cleaned with bleach as it can be harmful to birds.
What should be done if the bird feeder is rusting?
If the bird feeder is rusting it should be sanded down and repainted.
Can the bird feeder be cleaned in the dishwasher?
No the bird feeder should not be cleaned in the dishwasher as it can damage the feeder.
How can the bird feeder be dried after it is cleaned?
The bird feeder can be dried by wiping it down with a clean cloth.
What should be done if the bird feeder is chewed on by a squirrel?
If the bird feeder is chewed on by a squirrel it should be replaced.
What should be done if the bird feeder is broken?
If the bird feeder is broken it should be thrown away and replaced.
What should be done if the bird feeder is missing parts?
If the bird feeder is missing parts it should be thrown away and replaced.
Can the bird feeder be used if it is not cleaned?
No the bird feeder should not be used if it is not cleaned as it can be harmful to birds.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
