Here's some more detail on the problem of squirrels at bird feeders, and also if you have trouble with larger bully birds such as jays, crows, starlings or grackles. Often times a yard does not allow for putting up a pole system with a squirrel baffle, and even if you did this, bird feeders can still get hogged by large birds who keep smaller songbirds away from your feeder. The easiest solution to both of these problems is with a grid caged bird feeder. Caged bird feeders are just what they sound like - bird feeders with cages completely surrounding them, preventing access from squirrels or large birds but the grid is sized so that small songbirds can easily pass through and feed. They can perch on the metal of the grid itself and eat. These feeders are the best answer if you want a patio or balcony feeder, or wish to hang a feeder in a tree, but need to keep squirrels out or are being raided by bigger, bickering birds.
If you decide on one of these and squirrels are an issue, make sure that the grid is placed far enough away from the seed tube or food source that squirrels can't reach through. Most are designed that way but a few only have enough space to deny large bird access. The good points of this style feeder is that they are simple to use, can be hung just about anywhere. are effective and birds can see them well. The down side is that they can be harder to clean sometimes. The metal cage is most often chew proof to prevent squirrel damage and will lift off for cleaning and include a lock down mechanism for hanging.
Cage bird feeders are made for seeds such as black oil, suet baskets, thistle nyjer seed and even come in decorative designs. They are commonly made of a high grade stainless steel, again, to be chew proof, but this also makes them quite durable and one should last for years in a backyard. If starlings descend or the grackles take up residence in your yard, one of these feeders may be the answer to keep them away. Eventually they will need to go elsewhere to find their food and hopefully leave your yard alone.Meanwhile, the small songbirds such as titmice, chickadees and nuthatches won't blink an eye and be able to happily feed in peace.
