ngrea Loc: Sandy Spring, Maryland

This picture is for Ofwaih who thought that squirrels would be defeated by a slinky. Some of them are - if they try to crawl inside. but I have several trail camera shots showing how they work around. This one jumped a good 6 feet from the birdbath to the pole. Another climbs up by reaching between the coils. I find that greasing the pole (I use cooking oil or other non-toxic fat) works so far, but I have to replace it frequently.
I could do a whole essay on "feeder wars" as I try to ensure the bird seed lasts long enough to attract the birds I want. I have had raccoons, and deer, as well as murders of crows and flocks of starlings, in addition to the squirrels. Any of them can clean a feeder in minutes. I have 12 feeders and it is an on-going struggle. I have found that some feeders are more resistant and distance and height help, but no perfect solution. The most squirrel proof feeders are less popular with the song birds.

rcarol

Have you considered attaching an inverted plastic funnel to the pole a couple of feet below the feeder?

Country Boy Loc: Beckley, WV

Interesting photo. My wife also has a number of large feeders and we have all the basic critters you have and it is fun to watch the unique way some reach the food. I have to say, this is my first slinky!

ngrea Loc: Sandy Spring, Maryland

Unfortunately, I can't get the screws loose to remove the foot of the pole, so I can't slide any of the common baffles up the pole. Some day, when I'm bored and have time, I'll figure out how to attach something that doesn't have a seam the squirrels can grab a hold of. But in the mean time, the on-going challenge and watching the squirrels defeat each of my attempts is entertaining.

IDguy Loc: Idaho

Check out the Yankee Clipper.

My denizens are elk.

(Download)