Second, minimize the amount of seed that can reach the ground. Squirrels, mice, voles, etc. Simply placing a flat board or plate underneath the feeder to catch food will do the trick. If you would like to feed ground feeding birds like mourning doves, then spread the food on a smooth surface like a blanket or driveway and remove the remaining food after they have fed. Do not leave the food out over night or if you notice squirrels eating along with the birds.
Trash cans are another major food source for raccoons, skunks and opossums.
It seems that no matter how tight the bungy cord is fastened, raccoon can still lift the lid. The solution is simply to leave the cans inside the garage or a storage shed. If neither a shed or a garage are available you can build a wood box with a lid to hold the trash cans inside. It can be made out of plywood and screws in a relatively short amount of time. Preventing animals from raiding the cans when they are at the curb for trash collection is a simple matter.