Stop Those Scoffing Squirrels!
According to the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) there’s an influx of grey squirrels in Britain’s gardens this autumn due to declining seed and nut crops in the countryside – more than a third more squirrels can be found in gardens compared to the same period over the previous two years. This is a blow to those of us who prefer to feed the birds rather than greedy squirrels. The situation is exacerbated by the prolific numbers of pigeons who also hoover up more than their fair share of bird food. So if you’re feeling under siege, it might be time to look at investing in squirrel resistant and squirrel proof feeders which will deter both squirrels and tubby large birds. Ernest Charles, online and catalogue wild bird care specialist, has a wide range of bird feeders to deter squirrels and larger birds. For example, there’s a stainless steel squirrel proof feeder which uses gravity to confuse squirrels. A spring weighted metal sheath drops as they leap on to it, covering the feeder (£19.99). The squirrel resistant globe feeder has a metal cage through which small birds can pass through to get to the bird food but adult squirrels and larger birds find it difficult to squeeze through (£19.99). There is also the smooth squirrel baffle which is a dome attached to the feeder to help give squirrels the slip (also £19.99). The BTO also has other tips to put off these greedy chompers of bird food. Adding chilli powder dusted on bird food will send squirrels on their way, and if everything you try still doesn’t work, give them their own restaurant away from your bird feeders.
Gardening courses for beginners - new to gardening a GardenAdvice course is an ideal place to start
GardenAdvice One-Day Gardening Courses
GardenAdvice one-day gardening courses are specially created for gardeners with a range of skills, from beginners to expert gardeners. Our courses take place in your own garden, anywhere in the UK, led by GardenAdvice expert gardeners on a date that suits you – a perfect gardening gift for the gardener in your life.
Become a more confident gardener with the GardenAdvice Gardening Course.
Whether you're new to gardening or have some experience, it can seem a bit complicated at first with all the Latin names and gardening terminology. GardenAdvice.co.uk has developed a specially designed, one-day course to teach you the basic skills of gardening and help you get started.
The courses, held in your own garden, cover essential skills such as pruning, correct digging methods, growing your own shrubs, and creating the perfect lawn. You can also see some of our clients from the gardening courses and our MyGardenTeam service in the client section of the GardenAdvice website.
For more information, visit our gardening courses section or email us at admin@gardenadvice.co.uk. Alternatively, you can phone us on 01225 941023.
