Squirrels raiding the bird feeder? Try a dash of hot pepper. Many wild bird mixes now include capsaicin which is the compound that makes chilies hot. This is to deter furry thieves. Birds happily munch away at the hot pepper laced birdseed because the heat doesn’t affect birds because the pain receptor triggered by capsaicin in mammals just doesn’t work in birds. But one spicy taste sends seed-stealing squirrels packing. It’s a humane way to turn up the heat on pests while keeping our feathered friends safe and satisfied.
Growing Home - Capsaicin and Squirrels
