10. The PVC “Nut Pipe”

This is a low-maintenance silo feeder. You fill a long PVC pipe with nuts, and as the squirrels pull them out of a hole at the bottom, gravity brings the next one down.

  • Materials Needed:
    • 3-inch diameter PVC pipe
    • PVC end cap
    • 90-degree elbow joint
  • Steps:
    • Mount the long pipe vertically to a tree.
    • Attach the elbow joint at the bottom so the opening faces out.
    • Fill from the top and put the cap on to keep the rain out.

Tips & Tricks for Squirrel Feeding

  • The Right Menu: Squirrels love black oil sunflower seeds, unsalted peanuts, walnuts, and dried corn. Avoid giving them “human” snacks like crackers or salty nuts.
  • Fresh Water: Squirrels get thirsty, especially in the summer. Placing a small bowl of water near the feeder will make your yard their favorite hangout.
  • Keep it Clean: Just like bird feeders, squirrel feeders can grow mold if the food gets wet. Clean them out once a week.
  • Location is Key: Place your squirrel feeders far away from your bird feeders (at least 15–20 feet) to keep the peace between the species.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Cheap Suction Cups: If using a window feeder, buy the “industrial” strength cups. Squirrels are heavy and jump with a lot of force!
  • Using Treated Wood: Use natural cedar or pine. Pressure-treated wood contains chemicals that can be harmful if the squirrels chew on the feeder (which they will!).
  • Sharp Edges: Always sand down your wood and check for “pokey” bits. Squirrels are fast and can easily scratch themselves on a stray nail.