We installed our first bird feeder over three years ago. It has proven to be a solid design with no squirrel intrusions at all. With the dry summer this year, the birds, particularly the cardinals, have relied heavily on our feed. One side of the feeder is filled with generic wild bird seed. The other side is filled with black oil sunflower seeds specifically for the cardinals. Those birds can consume the sunflower seeds within four days. So, we decided to install a second feeder dedicated to the cardinals. All of the major components were purchased from Lowe’s or Amazon and are pictured below. They are the bird feeder, a galvanized line fence post, a flange, and a Slinky.

The secret to the squirrel proofing is the Slinky on the correct sized pole. Yes, you read that right. A good old-fashioned Slinky. Make sure you purchase an original, steel Slinky. If you watch videos of other folks with Slinkys on their bird feeder, you will find that the ones that fail use thin poles allowing the squirrel to climb inside the Slinky. It is important that the pole be large enough to prevent this. We have witnessed squirrels attempt and fail to climb our feeder.

The construction is simple. First, select a location. it should be near other bushes and trees that birds can escape to quickly. It should also be far enough from surrounding trees and structures that squirrels cannot jump to the feeder.

Second, dig a post hole about 18″ deep. Fill the hole with dry concrete mix.  A 40 pound bag is sufficient. Insert a galvanized line post in the dry concrete mix 12-16″ deep. Use a level to check the post is plumb. Allow this to set for a couple of days. The concrete mix will absorb moisture from the dirt and harden. (You certainly can mix the concrete with water if you like.) Remember, we are installing a bird feeder, not setting a post for a deck.

Third, attach the flange to the bottom of the bird feeder. I attached the flange to a scrap piece of metal which I then attached to the bird feeder, but I could have easily used a piece of wood. The method you choose will depend on the exact bird feeder you purchase.

Fourth, bend the end of the Slinky into a hook and hang it on the pole. Slide the flange over the top of the pole capturing the end of the Slinky and tighten the set screw on the flange.

Finally, fill the feeder and enjoy!