And if you release a squirrel into a new area with the idea it will have a happy future somewhere else, think again. Your relocated squirrel will likely be driven out by established resident squirrels. Unable to establish or defend a feeding and territory, it will ultimately starve to death, succumb to illness, or be killed by a predator. Relocating squirrels to the foothills or mountains isn't a sound environmental solution, either. Fox Squirrels released into higher elevations now threaten the survival of native Abert's and Pine Squirrels.
Relocation is no solution.
A spring mechanism drops a protective shield over the seed supply when a squirrel lands on the feeding platform. Birds, however, are too light to trip the mechanism and can feed in peace. Although weight-activated feeders are typically more expensive than ordinary feeders, the investment quickly pays for itself in lower seed bills and the satisfaction of knowing the seed you put out is reserved only for the birds. Another squirrel-proof option is using either safflower or thistle seed. Although squirrels have no interest in it, it is readily eaten by House Finches, Mourning Doves, Red-winged Blackbirds, and Evening Grosbeaks.