Review: Perky Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone II Home Style Bird Feeder
Product Name: Perky-Pet 339-1SR Squirrel-Be-Gone II Home Style Bird Feeder
Model Number: 339
Price: Ranges from $29.94 to $51.02
Cheapest Place to Buy: Amazon/ Home Depot
Size of Container: Height/ 14 inches Length/ 13.75 inches Width/ 11 inches
Weight: 4.5 pounds
Capacity: 8 pounds of seed
Seed Type: Black-oil sunflower seed, hulled sunflower seed, mixed seed, or safflower seed
Material: Metal
Guarantee: One year replacement policy/ No replacement parts
My Rating: 4.8 out of 5.0
Overview
Since 1985 when I bought my first home, I have had numerous bird feeders hanging in my backyard. I never had problems with squirrels eating the birdseed until I moved into my latest dwelling which is in a small town. Since then, I have struggled with squirrels devouring all the seed put out for the birds.
I have been on a quest to find a truly squirrel-proof bird feeder. Recently, I came across a couple that are proving to be effective as squirrel busters.
This review will discuss the Perky Pet Squirrel Be Gone feeder, discuss some of its pros and cons, and give tips on how to make it even more squirrel proof.
Product Qualities:
Well Built
This bird feeder has all metal construction that is powder-coated to enhance rust resistance for all-weather durability. It comes with an adaptor which allows you to install it on a pole or hang it on a hook.
Fair Warning!
Squirrels are crafty. Make sure you have at least 18 inches of clearance on all sides so the squirrels don’t stretch and reach the ports without activating the perch.
Easy to Fill
The feeder is very easy to refill. Twist the handle down then turn the chimney to unlock the roof. Lift the roof off for an easy refill.
Perky Pet 339 Feeder holds up to 8 pounds of seed, making for fewer refills.
Perky Pet Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder - Really Squirrel Resistant?
There are a few features that make this bird feeder more squirrel resistant.
The feeder has a weight-activated perch which can be calibrated to support the weight of birds but not squirrels.
When the squirrels try to access the seed, the feeding ports close off from their weight. Since birds have hollow bones which allow for more air to enter into their bodies, they are much lighter than other animals. Hence, the feeding ports do not close when birds perch on the feeder.
The sensitivity of the weight-activated perches can be adjusted to keep out larger birds.
The chimney lid lock prevents the squirrels from lifting the lid.
Metal frames discourage the squirrel from chewing the feeder.
Nice Appearance that Blends in Well
This bird feeder looks like a little house. The windows and door make it easy to know when you have to refill the feeder. The shade of green blends into the environment and the metal colored roof gives it a rustic appearance.
Easy to Clean
This bird feeder is especially easy to clean. Twist the chimney and lift off the roof. Dip it in a sink full of warm soapy water and thoroughly clean inside and out. Let it air dry and then refill your feeder to enjoy watching your favorite visitors in the winter or anytime.
All bird Feeders should be thoroughly cleaned every 2 to 3 weeks. This helps maintain a healthy environment for our feathered friends. The seed should be free of insects and mold.
Integrity of the Company
Perky Pet Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder has been around since 1958. It’s roots are in Denver, Colorado where they started out by trying to find a better way to feed hummingbirds. They began by modifying a design from medical IV bottles and the rest, as they say, is history.
The company has since made many innovative changes and produced a variety of feeders. These not only enhance the fun of watching the birds, but also enlighten one about the lives of birds and how they interact with our environment.
Perky Pet strives to make their products easy to maintain and cost-effective. For more information on the company’s history, click here.
A Couple of Negatives
Difficulty Locking the Roof
I have had this bird feeder for a few months now. Yes, it is easy to fill but not so easy to reattach the roof.
My main complaint is the difficulty with replacing the chimney cap to lock the roof in place. Underneath the chimney is an oblong, jagged, piece of metal approximately one inch long by a quarter inch wide, which you must insert into the feeder and then twist.
However, it is quite difficult to line up the piece with the opening in order to attach the roof securely. I find it is easier if I position the metal piece in the same direction as the opening under the roof before I attempt to twist it on.
Many times it does not catch. I have had to repeatedly try this in order for the chimney piece to secure the roof.
However, this small nuisance would not deter me from buying another Perky Pet 339 Bird Feeder.
So Far, No Cardinals!
Everyone needs patience when attempting to attract birds to their bird feeder. It takes time for the fine feathered friends to find a consistently satisfying food court.
I have seen many house sparrows, song sparrows, and black-capped chickadees visit my feeder but so far no cardinals.
I just need to be more patient because, like the movie Field of Dreams, “if you build it, they will come”! The words need to be modified a bit…..if you hang it, they will eventually come! Patience is the key.
For more information on how to attract birds in winter, click here.
Perky Pet Squirrel Be Gone Home Style Bird Feeder Review/ Yea or Nay?
There are many reasons to purchase this product:
Built From Quality Materials/ Metal and Powder Coated to Resist Rust
Weight-activated Perch to Deter Squirrels
Adjustable Weight-activated Perch to Attract or Deter Specific Species
Heavy Duty Lid Lock to Prevent Squirrels from Opening the Feeder
Versatile Mountings
Holds 8 Pounds of Seed/ Less Refilling
One Year Replacement Policy
Reputable Company
Based on all the above points, I find this bird feeder to be a good pick for a squirrel resistant feeder. I rate it a 4.8 out of 5 only because of the complaint previously noted.
If you’d like to purchase the Perky Pet Squirrel Be Gone Bird Feeder, click here (from Amazon).
(Some of the links within this post are affiliate links on which I receive a small compensation from the sale of certain items with no extra cost to you.)
(As an Amazon Associate I earn from Qualifying purchases.)
I hope you enjoyed this review and found it worthwhile. If you have any questions or comments regarding Perky Pet Bird Feeder, please leave them below. I’d love to know what you think of this product!
Happy Gardening,
Nina
www.bestgardeningforbeginners.com
bestgardeningforbeginners@gmail.com