Introduction
Squirrels can be very pesky when it comes to bird feeders. Their acrobatic abilities allow them to access feeders with ease, and they have a voracious appetite. Chasing them away rarely works for long. A more effective solution is to build a deterrent device that will discourage squirrels from approaching your feeders in the first place. A motion-activated laser turret is an inexpensive way to startle and scare off squirrels when they attempt to raid your bird food.
Materials Needed
Building a laser turret to deter squirrels requires just a few affordable components:
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Laser pointer - A laser pointer with at least a 5mW output is recommended. Green lasers are more visible than red.
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Motion sensor - This will detect when a squirrel approaches and activate the laser. Look for a sensor with adjustable sensitivity.
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Servo motor - This will control the horizontal motion of the laser pointer. A standard servo is sufficient.
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Mounting hardware - Nuts, bolts, brackets etc. to mount the components.
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Wires and soldering equipment - For connecting components.
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Battery pack - To power the devices. 4 x AA batteries recommended.
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On/off switch - To control power to the device.
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Enclosure - A plastic box to mount everything inside, protecting from weather.
Assembly Instructions
Building the laser turret involves basic electronics skills like soldering. Here are step-by-step instructions:
1. Mount the servo motor
Attach the servo motor to the inside of the enclosure using brackets and hardware. Center it horizontally as best possible.
2. Attach the laser
Glue or tape the laser pointer to the servo horn. Position it pointing straight forward.
3. Wire the electronic devices
Connect the motion sensor, servo, laser pointer, switch and battery pack with wires. Refer to device manuals for wiring instructions.
4. Install the motion sensor
Mount the motion sensor on top of the enclosure pointing outwards. Adjust sensitivity as needed.
5. Test operation
Turn on the device and test that the servo directs the laser properly when triggered by the sensor. Make adjustments as needed.
6. Mount the enclosure
Attach the enclosure near your bird feeder pointed at the area squirrels approach from. The laser should sweep across the area.
7. Use safely
Only activate your device when you are around to monitor it. Do not aim it at eyes or aircraft. Modify as needed to improve effectiveness and safety.
Tips for Deterring Squirrels
Here are some additional tips to make your laser turret more effective at keeping squirrels away:
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Place the feeder at least 3 meters from trees, fences and other objects squirrels can jump from.
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Clean up fallen seed to eliminate a food source on the ground.
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Use a plastic or metal feeder, not wood which squirrels can chew through.
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Apply vegetable oil to feeder poles and hanging wires to make them slippery.
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Install the laser turret in a sheltered spot so rain does not interfere with the electronics.
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Use bright flashing LED lights in addition to the laser to increase the deterrent effect.
With a simple motion-activated laser turret installed near your feeders, you can finally enjoy watching birds dine in peace without having to constantly chase away nosy squirrels! Just be sure to use and maintain the device safely.