Best Squirrel Baffle Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide
Squirrels are adorable creatures but can easily turn into pests and steal your birds’ seeds so they need to be stopped with the help of the best squirrel baffle on the market. If you’re looking for a new squirrel baffle to keep them away from damaging your bird feeders, one item that we consider suitable is the Woodlink NABAF18 Audubon Wrap Around Squirrel Baffle. The product is made of textured powder-coated steel and won’t rust or be damaged in time by wind, cold, sunlight exposure or rain. It is delivered with all necessary pieces to create a strong defense against squirrel pests and, the best part is that you don’t have to remove the bird feeder when you’re mounting it. The sides snap together with an inward motion to lock in the item. If this device is not available for purchase immediately, a trustworthy alternative would be the Predatorguard Squirrel Guard Baffle Anti-Rust.
Comparison table
1st Choice
This item is made of high-quality, powder-coated steel and won’t rust, chip or break after just a few months. It is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions without rusting or changing its appearance due to constant sunlight, wind, rain or cold exposure. The sides snap apart with inward pressure to lock in the item.
Smart animals like squirrels won’t be easily defeated by a regular baffle. Soon, they will learn to go around it and get to the seeds.
Although you might think squirrels and raccoons are adorable, these animals can easily harm your crops and steel your birds’ seeds. Opt for this steel baffle to keep them away.
2nd Best
Your birdfeeder will no longer be in danger with the help of this baffle. It is made of rough galvanized steel and won’t rust, meaning it is designed to withstand different temperatures. The black powder-coated steel and the slippery no-grip surface will prevent squirrels and other pests from reaching the birdfeeder.
The baffles don’t seem to do a good job of staying on the pole and will fall down to the ground if they are not screwed in properly.
If you want free entertainment, install a camera in front of the birdfeeder and watch squirrels as they give their best attempt of pole dancing to grab and eat the seeds from the birdfeeder.
Also To Consider
This elegant product is made of quality materials that won’t change color or rust in time. It represents a perfect garden decoration. It is designed to be kept outdoors and create a protective barrier around the post of the birdfeeder, preventing raccoons and squirrels from stealing the food. It is secured with included wood screws.
If you want to keep squirrels away from the seeds, you need to make sure first that the pole is made of aluminum or stainless steel and not wood.
Available in an elegant emerald finish, this baffle will perfectly blend in with your garden and backyard while protecting your birds’ food. It is made of durable materials and won't rust in time.
10 Best Squirrel Baffles (Updated Reviews) in 2024
If you’re looking for a large squirrel baffle to protect your birds’ food, there are plenty of good items on the market. Showcased below you can find some of the most sought-after models, together with their in-depth reviews so you can choose the perfect one for your garden.
1. Woodlink NABAF18 Audubon Wrap Around Squirrel Baffle
Measuring 18 inches in diameter, this affordable squirrel baffle represents a good way to keep predators away from the birdfeeder and your birds’ seeds.
Although squirrels and raccoons serve their purpose in nature, it is frustrating to see all your favorite birds starving because of these pests. With the help of the Woodlink NABAF18, you can stimulate your favorite types of birds to charm you with their songs every morning while they eat from the birdfeeder.
This product is made of textured powder-coated steel and will not rust or change its color in time. Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, it creates a protective barrier around the bird feeder pole to keep pests away.
It is delivered with all necessary screws and accessories to be easily mounted and, what’s best, you don’t have to remove the birdfeeder while doing it. The sides snap together with inward pressure applied on each side.
Pros
It is made of durable steel that won’t rust or change its color in time, meaning it can be safely kept outdoors throughout the year.
The product is easy to install and doesn’t require removing the birdfeeder from the ground first. It comes with detailed, step-by-step instructions to finish mounting in 20 minutes or less.
The unique coating is slippery so it won’t give the squirrels a chance to climb it and reach the feeder.
It also works perfectly as a shade provider for your birds during the hot summer days.
Cons
Squirrels are ingenious rodents so it won’t be long until they will learn their way around the baffle to get to the seeds. We suggest that you take all necessary precautions, and this includes creating a squirrel-free feeder, apart from mounting this baffle.
It is not wide enough to fit a 2-inch diameter pole, so carefully measure your bird feeder pole before ordering this product.
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2. Predatorguard Squirrel Guard Baffle Anti-Rust
Measuring 17 inches in diameter, this squirrel baffle for pole is designed to last you a lifetime. The wrap-around item secures birdhouses and feeders from raiding animals such as squirrels and raccoons.
It is made of tough galvanized steel and is sturdy enough to resist harsh weather conditions. It is specifically designed for outdoor use so it won’t rust or change its color in time due to constant sunlight exposure, cold temperatures, wind, rain or snow.
What we liked about this particular baffle is that it is easy to mount and comes with all mounting hardware included, so you won’t spend additional time looking for screws or small pieces that fit.
The black powder-coated steel features a slippery, no-grip surface that defeats even the most persistent squirrel from trying to reach the bird feeder. It can be easily attached to the feeder’s pole without having to remove it from the ground.
Pros
It measures 17 inches in diameter, wide enough to provide full protection for your bird feeder pole.
It is made of sturdy steel that won’t chip, break, bend or rust, maintaining its unique design and color for years from now on.
The black powder-coated steel provides a slippery, no-grip surface to prevent squirrels, raccoons or other animals from climbing on the baffle and reaching the bird feeder. Your birds will love it but we’re pretty sure the squirrels will hate it.
Unlike other items, this one is delivered with all necessary mounting hardware, as well as easy-to-follow instructions. Even without any previous experience, it won’t take you more than 15-20 minutes to attach the baffle to the pole.
Cons
It may take a while until you secure the baffle into position so it won’t get knocked down by animals.
Keep in mind that some squirrels are resilient enough to finally find a way around this product and get to the seeds.
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3. Woodlink Post Mount Squirrel Baffle BAF3GR
Boasting a beautiful emerald-like color, this baffle will make your garden or backyard look more luxurious. It is made of pure steel and features a weather-resistant powder coating. Thus, it won’t corrode, rust or change its color when exposed to direct sunlight, wind, cold temperatures, rain or snow.
The product is perfect for creating a protective barrier around a 4×4-inch post. It is designed to guard bird feeders and houses against raccoons, squirrels, and other predators, and it does a good job at it. It is delivered with all necessary mounting hardware and step-by-step instructions, so you won’t spend more than 20-30 minutes attaching the baffle to the pole.
It snaps together and apart with inward pressure on each side of the seam for easy mounting and doesn’t require anything else but wood screws to stay in place. All you have to do now is bring your camera and film the show your squirrels will put on when trying to climb the baffle.
Pros
The product is made of high-quality steel and won’t break, chip, bend or rust after a few months.
It is delivered in a beautiful green powder-coated finish to perfectly match your garden or backyard and look fabulous near your decorative plants and bushes.
It comes with all necessary mounting hardware, as well as easy-to-follow instructions so you won’t spend more than half an hour installing the baffle.
The slippery, no-grip finish prevents squirrels and other predators from climbing or jumping on it to reach the bird feeder.
Cons
It may work for a while but if your neighboring raccoons and squirrels are stubborn enough, they might find a way around it. We suggest that you mount the baffle at least four inches above the ground and keep the feeder in an open space, away from trees or tall structures that pests might use to climb and jump from.
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4. Perky-Pet 340 Transparent Squirrel Baffler
If you’re looking for a more elegant approach to keeping pests away from your bird feeder or house, the new Perky-Pet 340 might be the right choice for you. It measures 16 inches in diameter and can hold up to 12 pounds, so it will prevent most squirrels and raccoons from reaching the feeder.
The unique shape of the product allows you to hang it on top of the feeder or mount it below the pole. Either way, it is a great addition to your garden or backyard.
The transparent design allows birds to have a clear view and feel safer, so they will always know when a predator is around. Moreover, the clear baffler will easily match the rest of the landscape and decorative plants in your garden.
When attached on top of the feeder, the product will partially protect the seeds inside the feeder from rain, snow, and high humidity, helping them remain fresh and delicious for longer.
Pros
The transparent design allows birds to feel safe and in control whenever they are eating. Thus, they will always know when a predator is around so they will have enough time to fly away.
The product can be mounted on top of the feeder or the pole, depending on your preferences. When attached on top, it will protect the seeds and dried fruits from rain and snow.
The slippery coating provides no grip, making it virtually impossible for squirrels to climb or jump on it.
What we also liked about this baffle is that it is delivered with all necessary mounting hardware (3 screws, 2 hooks, and a baffle hub).
Cons
The hooks are made of plastic so don’t expect them to last you a lifetime. Although it prevents squirrels from finding a way to reach the birdfeeder, the baffle is not sturdy enough and might not make it through the winter.
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5. Achla Designs Squirrel Deflector
Invite birds into your home and allow them to amaze you with their wonderful roll. Protect the birds and their food from pesky predators such as squirrels, ferrets or raccoons, and help them find a constant source of food no matter the season. This hanging squirrel baffle can be purchased in a pack of one up to four items, so you can mount them on all the bird feeders on your property.
The product is designed for 4×4-inch posts and includes an adjustable post clamp to attach around the post. The deflector can be easily opened and snapped into place, which makes the entire mounting process easy and hassle-free.
It is made of heavy-duty steel and won’t rust or break after a few months. Designed for outdoor use, the baffle will maintain its original color and won’t be affected by winds, storms, rain, snow or direct exposure to sunlight.
Pros
You can purchase this baffle alone or in a set of up to four identical items to add them to all your bird feeders.
It is made of durable steel and won’t break, chip, bend, crack or rust in time. It features a weatherproof coating that will keep it away from the harmful effects of direct sunlight exposure, cold, rain, wind or snow.
The roof-like design with a pointy tip prevents squirrels or raccoons from having enough room to land on the baffle or climb on it so they can further reach the seeds in the bird feeder.
It is delivered with all mounting hardware and the entire installation process won’t last more than 20-30 minutes, even if you’re a complete newbie.
Cons
The deflector only seems to rest on the bracket so it is not secured in position. This means that it can be easily knocked down by heavier or bouncier squirrels.
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6. Erva Post Mounted Squirrel Baffle Galvanized
Proudly made locally, in the United States, this product measures over 23 inches in diameter, making it perfect for most poles, no matter how thick they are. It provides plenty of protection from pests and can be easily mounted. All you have to do is slide it over an existing 4×4 post and it is ready to work its magic.
The product features a sturdy steel construction that won’t rust, break, chip or crack easily. The weather-proof design ensures that the baffle maintains its original color and shine even after months spent outdoors in all temperatures and weather conditions.
The chew-proof baffle is practically indestructible and will easily match your backyard landscape. The four tabs extend downward to secure the item to your post with the help of the included screws. Moreover, the shiny, slippery surface will prevent squirrels from climbing on the baffle and reaching the bird feeder.
Pros
Measuring more than 23 inches in diameter, this baffle is one of the biggest on the market, offering plenty of protection for your bird feeder.
It is made of superior quality steel and, thanks to its dust coating, it won’t rust or change its color in time, even when exposed to severe weather conditions such as heavy rains, snow, storms or direct sunlight.
The product is proudly made in the United States so, by purchasing it, you will support a local business.
It is delivered with all necessary mounting hardware, including tabs and screws, as well as step-by-step instructions.
Cons
It is mainly intended for small predators like raccoons and squirrels so it cannot support the weight of heavier animals like cats or dogs. Therefore, we don’t recommend using this baffle to prevent your cat from climbing trees.
Although it is made of galvanized steel, it is thin enough and susceptible to bending.
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7. Myard MBF BD13 Wobbly Squirrel Proof Deflector
A cheap squirrel baffle doesn’t necessarily have to be a poorly constructed product that will break after a few months. This wobbly feeder baffle effectively insulates bird feeders from the grabby paws of raccoons and squirrels, protecting the food inside the bird feeders.
For perfect results, the manufacturer recommends installing the baffle cover 1-2 feet below the bird feeder, and a few feet above the ground.
Although transparent, the product boasts an anti-UV coating that will protect it from degrading or changing its appearance in time. You won’t have to worry about rust either, and it will perfectly match your garden flowers and decorations.
It is made of durable materials and the transparent design allows birds to feel safe and more secure. Moreover, the wobbly feature will prevent squirrels from climbing. Whenever the squirrel or raccoon touches the baffle, the product starts tilting and wobbling, knocking down predators.
Pros
The product is easy to install and doesn’t require any special tools. It comes with all necessary mounting hardware and it won’t take you more than 15-20 minutes to mount it.
The transparent design ensures a sense of security for birds that can always see whenever a predator approaches their bird feeders, so they have plenty of time to fly away.
It features a UV-resistant coating and is specifically designed to last outside. Therefore, it won’t be damaged by wind, storms, rain, snow or direct sunlight exposure and, most importantly, it won’t rust in time.
Whenever a predator approaches the baffles and tries to climb it, the product starts tilting and wobbling, preventing animals from jumping on it.
Cons
Although the clear and transparent design looks elegant in your garden, the baffle isn’t sturdy enough to fight against raccoons or heavy squirrels. Eventually, the animals will find a way to work around this product and get to the seeds.
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8. Stokes Select Squirrel-X Baffle Metal Wraparound Guard
Measuring 18 inches in diameter, this product is large enough to cover the entire area of the bird feeder pole, ensuring increased protection against pests. The baffle is specifically designed to stop squirrels in their tracks, preventing them from reaching the bird feeder and stealing away the food.
The Squirrel-X is made of durable materials and won’t rust, chip, break or bend in time, maintaining its color and fresh design for a longer time. Thanks to the weather-resistant finish, the product can be left outside throughout the year, without being affected by rain, storms, low or high temperatures or snow.
We also liked that it is delivered with all necessary mounting hardware and is easy to install. It even includes a coupler for secure positioning, preventing it from being taken down by raccoons or squirrels. The manufacturer recommends placing the bird feeder at least 8 feet away from any tall structure and the baffle to be mounted around four feet off the ground.
Pros
If you’re looking for a durable and reliable baffle that will maintain its original design and color for a longer time, the Squirrel-X is a perfect choice.
It is made of weather-resistant steel and it won’t rust, chip, break or bend even when left outside all-year-long.
The unique coating is super slippery, preventing squirrels or other animals from climbing or jumping on it to reach the bird feeder.
It is available in two sizes, 15-inches and 18-inches in diameter, so you can pick the item that best fits your bird feeder.
Cons
The diameter of the cone could be bigger to keep away all pesky rodents. Keep in mind that squirrels, tree rats, and even rabbits and raccoons can be very determined, so your bird feeder won’t stand a chance if it is within a reachable distance from the ground. The manufacturer recommends placing the feeder or birdhouse at least 8 feet away from any tall structure.
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9. North States Bird 1757 2-Way Squirrel Baffle
North States has been in the business for almost 8 decades, delivering superior-quality products that will last you a long time. Resembling a pot lid, this baffle will protect bird feeders and bird houses from harmful animals such as tree rats, squirrels, and even rabbits.
Proudly made in the United States, the product is made from durable, UV-protected, weather-resistant plastic so you won’t have to worry about it changing its color or rusting in time. Thus, you can keep it outside all-year-long as it won’t be affected by direct exposure to sunlight, low temperatures, rain or snow.
It is convenient to use with hanging or pole-mounted bird feeders, which makes it an excellent choice for all bird lovers.
We liked that the product is lightweight and easy to carry around and store when you’re not using it but sturdy enough to prevent squirrel attacks. The top coating is slippery and won’t allow animals to climb or sit on it so they could reach the bird feeder.
Pros
It is made in the United States, from local materials so buying this product means you will be supporting the national economy.
It is delivered with all necessary mounting hardware and works perfectly for both hanging bird feeders and pole ones.
The product is made of durable plastic that is UV-resistant and, unlike other items, won’t rust in time, even when left outside all-year-long.
The baffle is designed to keep away squirrels, raccoons, and other animals from the birds’ food. It will keep the bird safe and alert at all times so they can easily fly if there are any predators around.
Cons
No matter how strong and reliable the baffle is, it is still made of plastic, so don’t expect it to last you a lifetime. Sure, it won’t rust but it isn’t designed to hold more than a few pounds, so it may not be the best option for aggressive predators.
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10. Audubon NACLBAF16 Clear Squirrel Baffle
Going through this squirrel baffle review, you will easily understand why this product is one of the most popular on the market right now. The clear design is elegant and fits perfectly in any garden, mimicking the surroundings and helping it blend in with the rest of the flowers, trees, and decorative plants.
The product measures 16 inches in diameter and fits poles between 1-inch and ⅜-inches wide. The plastic construction is sturdy enough and won’t rust, break or chip easily. It can be used to protect bird feeders throughout the year as its design won’t be affected by the harsh temperatures or weather conditions.
The transparent design also ensures maximum visibility for birds, minimizing obstruction of view and helping them to always stay alert and look for predators. This way, they can fly the moment they see a dangerous animal trying to approach their house or feeder.
Pros
The dual-purpose product can be used as a weather shield to protect the feeder from rain and direct sunlight or it can be mounted on a pole and used as a baffle. Either way, it represents a smart investment for your birdhouses and feeders.
It is made of clear, transparent plastic that will provide maximum visibility for birds and allow them to stay alert.
It won’t rust, break or change its color in time, meaning you can use it all-year-round in your garden or backyard.
The baffle is delivered with all necessary mounting hardware, as well as easy-to-follow instructions that won’t take more than 20 minutes to complete.
Cons
Although it does a pretty good job of keeping pests away, the plastic structure is not reliable and time will confirm this. For aggressive squirrels and other animals, we suggest sticking to baffles made of galvanized steel that feature a slippery, non-grip coating.
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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
If you’re in the market for a metal squirrel baffle to protect your birdfeeder from predators, it won’t be enough to go through squirrel baffle reviews to find the right item. Continue reading this buying guide and find the most important features your product needs to check before you bring it home with you.
Sturdy materials
A good product should be designed to last you many springs from now on, so the quality of the materials used is essential. We’re rooting for galvanized steel, stainless steel, and even aluminum that won’t break or chip after a couple of months.
Stay away from accessories made of flimsy materials such as plastic because they won’t keep away squirrels or other animals. You may also think that wood is a good choice but don’t forget that squirrels are rodents, and they love chewing on everything, especially wood. So, unless you want to end up replacing the baffle every other month, steel is the best option for you.
Designed for outdoor use
Keep in mind that the baffle should stay attached to the birdfeeder throughout the year, so you’ll need an item that is designed for outdoor use. This means it shouldn’t change its shape, color or texture even when exposed to direct sunlight, high or low temperatures, wind, rain or snow.
Look for baffles that feature a weatherproof coating and which won’t rust in time. They may be more expensive but they are the safest way to keep the birds and squirrels separated.
Mounting mechanism
Your baffle should be also easy to mount without requiring too many additional tools. Opt for items that are shipped with all necessary mounting accessories so you won’t spend more time looking for pieces that fit.
The snap-on mechanism may not be the most durable by comparison to old-fashioned screws but it will be easier for you to attach and detach the baffle as often as you want to.
No matter the product you’re opting for, it should come with full, step-by-step instructions and shouldn’t take more than 20-30 minutes to mount and fix on the pole. Don’t forget to also check the mechanism that keeps the baffle in place and that prevents it from falling to the ground once pressure is applied.
Additional safety measures
Squirrels are smart rodents so a simple baffle won’t keep them away from your birds’ food for too long. All they have to do is learn the mechanism and how to go around it, so you’ll need a solid plan to get rid of these pests for good.
Some baffles come with slippery finishes that don’t provide any grip and prevent squirrels from landing on them. Others, on the contrary, may feature studs or a pointy tip that will keep the surface as narrow as possible so that squirrels won’t stay on it.
Although we do want the baffle to prevent pests from stealing the food of your birds, this doesn’t mean that these products should be harmful or dangerous to them. Thus, avoid spikes, wood splints or any other finishes that might cause injuries to these poor animals.
Lastly, take a look at your garden and make sure your birdfeeder is mounted in the right place. It should be in the open, surrounded only by bushes, grass, and flowers. All tall surfaces, including gazebos, barbeques, decorations or trees can become perfect ramps to launch your squirrel and have it landing on the birdfeeder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s a squirrel baffle and what is it used for?
If you love feeding the birds and have them enchant you with their songs daily, you must probably own a birdfeeder. However, birds are not the only ones to feed on delicious seeds and dry fruits mixes, and they can attract other animals, including squirrels and raccoons that will try to steal the food away.
A squirrel baffle represents a pointy piece of material, usually steel or something durable, that is shaped like a hat and is mounted on the birdfeeder’s pole to prevent squirrels from climbing and stealing the food. They are used to keep birds and their seeds safe from predators and represent an effective accessory, especially for people who live around woods.
Avoid opting for products made of PVC or wood as they are not durable and won’t provide the same protection as baffles made of steel. Although they might learn how to avoid baffles, these products remain one of the safest methods to keep pests away from getting to bird feeders.
Q: How high should a squirrel baffle be?
Installed properly, baffles can protect your bird feeders from squirrels, ferret or raccoon assaults and robberies. These accessories are also designed to prevent squirrels from getting inside birdhouses and harming these creatures, which means you have to invest in a quality and durable item.
It is important to know that squirrels can jump 11 feet down from a tree branch and can leap up to 7 feet vertically, so don’t underestimate this rodent’s Cirque du Soleil abilities. Squirrels can also climb the thickest poles with ease and, thanks to their specially adapted claws, vaseline, grease or cooking oil won’t stop them.
If you want the baffle to be successful in preventing squirrels from attacking a bird feeder, you need to install it at least four feet above the ground, out of the animals’ jumping distance. But, since no two animals are the same, you will probably have to adjust the baffle depending on the size and breed of your backyard companions.
Q: Is the material of the squirrel baffle important?
Unless you missed the information above, the material used to manufacture the baffle is extremely important. Plastic or PVC are flimsy and can be easily knocked down by strong winds and storms. Wood won’t stand a chance either in front of these pesky rodents, so there is no reason you should even consider such a product for your garden.
The remaining options include aluminum and stainless steel, both durable and heavy-duty. No matter your choice, the baffle shouldn’t rust or corrode in time. You can choose products that feature a slippery coating to prevent squirrels from landing on the baffle.
Adding grease, vaseline or cooking oil on the pole is also a good idea but don’t forget to reapply it every other day, especially if it’s rainy or cold outside. Don’t forget to also place the bird feeder in an open space, away from any trees or tall constructions such as gazebos, tool sheds or garages if you want to keep squirrels away for good.
Bibliography:
3) Relentless Squirrel vs The Squirrel Baffle
4) How to Keep Squirrels Out of Bird Feeders
November 29, 2020 at 7:35 am
I really like Woodlink Baffle, It is easy to install and has a high quality feel to it. What I love about this squirrel baffle is that it does not allow any squirrel to wander around and get inside the pole of the bird feeder. I like its cool design too since it is designed with a solid black color. The rest of the options are also great, thank you so much for sharing your experience with us.
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December 2, 2020 at 10:18 am
Hi Cyrus. Thank you for taking the time and leave feedback!
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