Squirrels and Bird Feeders

Environmental & Science Education
STEM
Behavior
Nature
Edward Hessler

Have you ever tried to "squirrel-proof" a bird-feeder?  Maybe you were successful or failed.

Bowdoin College's biology professor Nat Wheelwright recounts his experiences in a short Nature Moments videos. No matter your experience and success or non-success in outsmarting squirrels viewing this film is likely to remind you of squirrel cleverness.

Three comments made about squirrels in the video caught my attention, namely that they are endlessly observant, experimental, and persistent. These remind me of characteristics of field biologists.

One of the most observant, experimental, and persistent is Bernd Heinrich, emeritus professor, University of Vermont. Almost any book he has written showcases such "squirrel characteristics." I recommend two. If you like critters, The Geese of Beaver Pond or if you prefer plants, The Trees in My Forest.

On the other hand, if you prefer to make a choice see here.