Okay, so I’ve been wanting to get into this whole bird-watching thing, and I figured a good way to start was to set up a bird feeder. But not just any bird feeder, I wanted something that would keep those pesky squirrels out. So, I decided to go with this thing called the “Absolute II Bird Feeder.”
First off, I did some digging around to see what kind of feeders are out there. It seems like platform feeders are cool for bigger birds like jays and cardinals, while the ones with small perches are better for the little guys. Then, I stumble upon this weight-sensitive bird feeder which could close access to the seed tray when squirrels attempt to feed. It’s called “Absolute Bird Feeder” and has lots of positive feedback from customers.
So, I ordered this “Absolute II” feeder. When it arrived, it was actually pretty easy to put together. It’s got this big seed container, about 12 pounds it holds, which is way more than those other tiny feeders. And it’s got perches on both sides, so birds can eat from either side. I’ve heard that double-sided feeding draws more birds, so I guess that is one of the reasons why I chose it.
Now, the real test was setting it up. I filled it up with birdseed and hung it on a pole in my backyard. For the first few days, it was mostly small birds – you know, the usual sparrows and finches. They seemed to love it, no fighting, just peaceful snacking.
Then came the squirrels. These guys are persistent, I’ll give them that. I watched as one tried to get to the seeds, but as soon as it landed on the perch, the door to the seeds slammed shut. It was like magic! The squirrel tried a few more times, different angles, even hanging upside down, but no luck. It eventually gave up and went looking for an easier target.
It’s been a few weeks now, and the “Absolute II” has been living up to its name. Absolutely no squirrels have gotten to the seeds. The birds are happy, I’m happy, and I’ve even started to recognize some of the regulars. I clean it twice a month from May to September and once a month from October to April.
I’m thinking about adding a suet feeder next, to attract some woodpeckers. Bird watching is turning out to be pretty fun, and this feeder has definitely made it a lot easier to enjoy.
If you’re looking to get into bird watching and want a feeder that actually keeps the squirrels out, I’d definitely recommend giving the “Absolute II” a try. It’s been a game-changer for me.
- Pros:
- Keeps squirrels out effectively.
- Large seed capacity.
- Double-sided feeding attracts more birds.
- Easy to assemble and clean.
- Cons:
- Might be a bit pricey compared to basic feeders.
Overall
This thing is solid. A bit of an investment upfront, but worth it in the long run if you’re serious about feeding the birds and not the squirrels.
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