How to Keep Bears and Raccoons Away from Bird Feeders

Squirrels are an annoyance; bears and raccoons are a serious problem. They can flatten feeders overnight — and a bear that learns to raid yards can become a danger to itself and people. Here's how to feed birds responsibly where big mammals roam.

Bears: bring feeders in

The only reliable defense against bears is removing the attraction. In bear country, take feeders down during the bear-active season (roughly spring through fall) and feed only in winter when bears hibernate. Many wildlife agencies require this. A bear that gets a food reward will return repeatedly and may be killed as a 'nuisance.'

If you must feed in bear range

• Hang feeders from a high, hard-to-reach wire (10+ feet up, 4+ feet from supports).
• Bring feeders inside every night and clean up all spilled seed.
• Store seed in a sealed container indoors or in a sturdy shed — never on a porch.

Raccoons: baffles and timing

Raccoons are nocturnal climbing experts. Use a sturdy pole-mounted baffle they can't climb past, bring feeders in at night, and avoid foods like cracked corn that especially attract them. A raccoon that finds an easy meal will return nightly.

Don't feed wildlife directly

It's tempting to 'just let them have some,' but feeding bears and raccoons habituates them, spreads disease, and creates conflict. Keep the food for the birds.

A clean station is a safe station

Whatever your local wildlife, a tidy feeding area — no spilled seed, secure storage, feeders brought in when needed — keeps birds (and your Birder AI list) thriving without inviting trouble.