Some people are happy to feed any critters in their yards, whereas others would prefer to stick to feeding birds. Love them or loathe them, squirrels are likely to raid your bird feeder unless you put measures in place to prevent them. Some bird feeders come with "squirrel baffles" – cages or covers designed to let small birds through and keep squirrels out. But these aren't ideal if you want to feed larger birds, too.We recommend putting cheaper food – such as peanuts and corn — down on the ground to feed your resident squirrel, leaving the bird feeders (and more costly seed) free for your feathered friends. The benefit of taking this route is that squirrels are highly territorial and will protect their food sources. If you feed one squirrel in your garden, he's likely to keep others at bay.