I bought the Squirrel Buster Mini even though I would have preferred a larger feed capacity. The Mini, however, has a cage that our woodpeckers like and perches that other birds seem to prefer. I used this model to replace a bird feeder that claimed to be "squirrel proof" and certainly was not.
I started by adding a 5 inch wire bent to form hooks at either end. This extra joint in the hanger eliminates the problem, mentioned by a reviewer, with hooking the birdfeeder onto a support without spilling birdseed. This also makes it more difficult for squirrels to shake and empty the feeder's contents because it is more difficult for the squirrels to wildly swing the feeder with this extra joint in the hanger. It also makes it more difficult for the squirrels to reach the feeder. Be sure to keep the feeder 18 inches away from any structure capable of supporting a squirrel. Shorter distances will allow the squirrels to grab the feeder from the sides and eat without closing the feeder ports.
We have 4 very cleaver squirrels that have had no problem mastering our previous "squirrel proof" birdfeeder. Our previous feeder has now been replaced with the Brome Squirrel Buster Mini and it really works to limit the amount of time that our squirrels spend hanging on the feeder. It doesn't keep them from trying but they lose interest before long and birds can spend more time at the feeder without the encumbering squirrel sweater. We like squirrels so we feed our squirrels separately with food intended for them.
I use a coarse mixture of birdseed in the feeder that includes cracked corn and sunflower seeds. I have had no issues with clogging. This has been mentioned as a problem by other reviewers. Maybe my model has been improved.
The feeder has 4 feeding stations with perches that attract a variety of small birds. The perches are short so larger birds don't seem to be attracted to the feeder. They opportunistically wait on the ground below the feeder to gather seeds that are selectively and frequently ejected by feeding birds.
We have Cardinals in our area and I have seen them feeding on the squirrel food that we place on the ground [poetic justice]. We have yet to see them at this feeder but we haven't given up hope.
Pros:
1. The Squirrel Buster Mini really does discourage our squirrels and they have been quite successful eating at our previous "squirrel proof" feeder. Maybe they will eventually stop trying but I am not convinced. Regardless, it limits the time that was previously spent scaring birds away from the feeder.
2. Very solid construction. Mostly powder-coated metal that the squirrels try to unsuccessfully chew through. I am unsure how long the plastic feeder tube will last but the rest of the feeder is very well made.
3. Excellent ventilation system that helps to keep the seed dry.
4. Very good price at Amazon. This is a relatively inexpensive feeder.
Cons:
1. Not easy to fill without spilling seed. You may wish to use a funnel or a large bowl under the feeder to catch the inevitable spillage.
2. The Squirrel Buster Mini has a small capacity, as the name implies, that seems to last our birds about 4 to 5 days. The larger models don't appear to have both the perch design that I like and a cage to attract a combination of woodpeckers and other birds. This is why we selected this model and tolerantly accept its limited capacity. It just means that we clean the feeder more frequently and this is healthier for the birds. This model instructs the owner to not use a dishwasher for cleaning but I don't believe that I wish to share my dishwasher with bird droppings. I should clarify that other Brome models have a cage and perches but I particularly like the size of these perches as they deter larger birds. Other individuals may have different preferences.
I strongly recommend the Brome Squirrel Buster Mini. It is well made, supports a variety of birds, and keeps the squirrels baffled. It is perfect for woodpeckers and a variety of small birds.
>>> UPDATE 17Dec2011 <<<
The Cardinals have arrived but they are infrequent visitors. Maybe I have the wrong feed mixture. The squirrels are still confused but will sometimes try anyway.
I noticed an issue where the wire cage near the feeding ports may bend inward slightly and prevent the cage from closing over the feeding ports. This is a little difficult to visually see and probably happened while fillling the feeder. Always check the operation of the closing mechanism before hanging the feeder. If it doesn't close properly then check that pieces of the wire cage, near the feeding ports, are not bent inward, thus preventing proper operation. This issue could have been eliminated by design.
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Add a debit or credit card to save time when you check out
Convenient and secure with 2 clicks. Add your card
Frequently bought together
$35.78
Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11
In Stock
Total price:
To see our price, add these items to your cart.
Choose items to buy together.
Discover similar items
& Up
Price: $25 - $50
Material: Metal
Seed Capacity: Up to 1.9 Pounds
Recommended Uses For Product: Seed
Length longer horizontal edge: Up to 4.9 in
Width shorter horizontal edge: 4.0 to 5.9 in
Special Features: Squirrel Proof
Target Species: Squirrel
Included Components: Manual
Height base to top: 11.0 in & above
No results available. Please adjust the filters and try again.
$46
$26List:$35.99
$54
$26List:$30.99
$24List:$27.99
$19Typical:$26.99
$36
$28
$26List:$29.79
$33
$25
$32
Top rated similar items
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
From the manufacturer
TRULY SQUIRREL-PROOF FEEDERS BUILT TO LAST!
Disposable products are no longer an option. All of our products are designed with our planet in mind: all parts are designed to be replaceable. The future of new products, manufacturing and the preservation of our planet must be linked to a vision of products made to last.
CLEANING YOUR FEEDER
- Frequency of cleaning varies according to climate.
- Heavy bird traffic can increase the frequency of cleaning.
- Washing by Hand. Wear Gloves!
- Dismantle and discard any accumulation of wild bird food.
- Wash by hand in warm soapy water and/or in 1/10 bleach solution.
- Make sure all components are completely dry before assembling.
- Warning: Bird droppings contain contaminants. Avoid skin contact.
HOW IT WORKS
Openings in the shroud align with the feeding ports, providing birds access to the food. When a squirrel climbs onto the feeder, its weight automatically forces the shroud down, closing access to the ports. Squirrels and some large birds are foiled but not harmed in any way.
- REMOVABLE PERCHES
- FOR BOTH PERCHING AND CLINGING BIRDS
THE NEED FOR CLEARANCE
Remember it’s a squirrel’s weight that triggers the closing mechanism. If a squirrel can reach over from a nearby foothold and avoid placing its weight on the feeder, it can access the birdseed. To overcome this problem, allow for at least 18 in/47 cm of clearance around the feeder. This will force the squirrel to climb onto the feeder and trigger the closing mechanism.
MORE INFORMATION
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|
BROME CAREShould you need a part covered under our Brome Care, we will happily provide it to extend the life of our products. |
NO TOOLS REQUIREDAll our feeders are designed to be dismantled by hand into individual components without the use of tools. This allows for easy cleaning and maintenance. |
BROME BIRD NEWSHow much do you love birds? Our free online show dedicated to birds and everyone who loves them. Buying a bird feeder is just the beginning of a rather exciting journey. Join us to learn more! |
WHERE TO LOCATE YOUR FEEDER
Position your feeder wherever you like to get great close-up views of your favorite birds. Hang it over a window, in a tree, on a deck, from a fence, in your garden, on the side of your house, from a rain trough or over sliding doors. Use brackets, extension hooks and tree hooks to hang your feeder at the 18-inch (47 cm) recommended clearance.
Videos
Page 1 of 1Start OverPage 1 of 1
Videos for this product
1:11
Click to play video
Customer Review: The BEST squirrel-proof feeder!
Eric Barao
Videos for this product
1:04
Click to play video
Customer Review: Feeds your Birds, not your Squirrels
Chad
Compare with similar items
This Item  Squirrel Buster Mini Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder w/4 Metal Perches, 1.3lbs Seed Capacity, garden green |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Price | $35.78 | $39.97 | $36.99 | $64.45 | $36.99 | $33.96 |
| Delivery | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 |
| Customer Ratings | ||||||
| Sturdiness | ||||||
| Easy to clean | ||||||
| Value for money | ||||||
| Durability | ||||||
| Sold By | Amazon.com | Vanquer | cityUS | Amazon.com | Wee-US | YUGYUM HOME |
| material | Metal | Plastic, Metal | Metal | — | Metal | Metal, PVC |
| mounting type | Hanging Mount | Hanging Mount | Hanging Mount | Hanging Mount | Hanging Mount | Hanging Mount |
Reviews with images
Foiled squirrel attack within hour
I put this up and within an hour one of the numerous squirrels tried to go on it. I watched him for at least 15 minutes go at this thing from every angle, And then he started chewing on it, only to sit at the top fuming and then run off in embarrassment. That alone is worth 5 Stars just to see him lose the attack. Before I bought this feeder I put a black cone around the previous cheaper one (NOT a Brome) but the squirrel just started chewing on it so much that the cone broke and then he just lifted up The feeder and dumped it all out, so I hope it's strong enough Withstand chewing Because I guarantee the squirrels r gonna come back.
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on November 24, 2023
The feeder has four sturdy metal perches, accommodating multiple birds at once. The 1.3lbs seed capacity is generous, ensuring a constant supply for our feathered friends.
It's easy to set up, and relatively easy to clean (I have a bottle brush I keep aside for it which makes it pretty easy) and I'd say it's perfect for seasoned birdwatchers and beginners. Overall, I give the Squirrel Buster Mini a well-deserved 5/5 stars for its effectiveness, quality, and the joy it brings to birdwatching and photography enthusiasts.
Color: garden greenStyle: MiniVerified Purchase
Perfect for Bird Lovers: Keeps Squirrels Out!
Reviewed in the United States on November 24, 2023
no squirrels have been able to access the seeds, which means more food for the birds and uninterrupted viewing pleasure for us.Reviewed in the United States on November 24, 2023
The feeder has four sturdy metal perches, accommodating multiple birds at once. The 1.3lbs seed capacity is generous, ensuring a constant supply for our feathered friends.
It's easy to set up, and relatively easy to clean (I have a bottle brush I keep aside for it which makes it pretty easy) and I'd say it's perfect for seasoned birdwatchers and beginners. Overall, I give the Squirrel Buster Mini a well-deserved 5/5 stars for its effectiveness, quality, and the joy it brings to birdwatching and photography enthusiasts.
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2024
Color: garden greenStyle: MiniVerified Purchase
Keeps the squirrels out as intended. Easy to fill and so far had held up nicely. Highly recommend!
Images in this review
Top reviews from other countries
Diane Durant
Keeps the squirrels away perfectly
Reviewed in Canada on April 15, 2024Color: garden greenStyle: MiniVerified Purchase
Kaye Geiger
Really good feeder!
Reviewed in Canada on July 9, 2023Color: garden greenStyle: FinchVerified Purchase
Cathi
Es funktioniert!
Reviewed in Germany on October 28, 2022Color: garden greenStyle: MiniVerified Purchase
aus-pex v
The best bird feeder
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 7, 2022Color: garden greenStyle: MiniVerified Purchase
Kaymo
Actually works!
Reviewed in Canada on April 24, 2024Color: garden greenStyle: MiniVerified Purchase
