Nothing raises a bird watchers blood pressure like seeing a squirrel dangle upside down on the side of a bird feeder while gorging itself on expensive seed.

If the squirrels aren’t pigging out on bird seed they’re digging holes in your garden in search of tasty bulbs and uprooting plants along the way.

The more your yard resembles a smorgasbord, the larger the number of unwanted visitors you will have.

Luckily there are a few things you can do to make your property less of a Happy Meal.

Plants that Squirrels dislike.

You won’t see a lot of squirrels chomping on daffodil bulbs. Daffodil bulbs contain a toxic alkaloid called lycorine that is harmful to squirrels, other rodents, and humans.

Apparently the bulbs of Fritillaries have an unpleasant flavor, so squirrels tend to leave them alone.

Alliums, Marigolds, Narturtiums, and Mint all have scents that squirrels find to be repugnant. Consider planting them in proximity to vulnerable plants.

Over the years, we’ve purchased a wide variety of bird feeders. Some more squirrel proof than others. Durability has been an issue. Our existing tube feeders have become jammed up and no longer return to the open position after a squirrel departs. They have also become susceptible to moisture. Squirrels have also chewed threw springs and end caps of various feeders.

We’ve just purchased a new feeder that purports to be squirrel proof. We’ll let you know how it goes.