How to Keep Raccoons Off of Hummingbird Feeders
- 1). Hang the hummingbird feeder on a branch that is too slender to support the weight of the raccoon. Alternatively, put up a cable between two trees and hang the feeder on the cable so raccoons can't reach it.
- 2). Smear sticky grease products marketed for coating the inside surface of insect traps on the pole of the hummingbird feeder. Cooking oil will also work, but reapply it every few days when the pole becomes dry. According to the University of Maine, raccoons don't like having grease sticking on their fur.
- 3). Install a baffle on the pole of the hummingbird feeder. A baffle fits around the pole under the feeder, creating a barrier that raccoons can't get around to reach the feeder. Otherwise, put up a fence around the feeder.
- 4). Take down the feeder until the raccoons move away to look for food somewhere else. Put it up again when you no longer see raccoons in the area.
- 5). Place a trap in an area that raccoons frequent. Use a live or cage trap to prevent injuries to nontarget animals. According to Michigan State University, the trap should measure at least 10-by-12-by-32 inches. Use bait such as canned fish, cat food, sardines, fish or chicken.
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