Can Coffee Grounds Help Deter Squirrels From Your Bird Feeder? Here's What We Found

If you can't start your day without coffee, you're not alone, but that same magical brew might be just what your bird feeder needs to fend off furry invaders. Bird lovers everywhere know the struggle. You fill up the feeder for your feathered guests, only to spot a squirrel performing Olympic-level acrobatics to hijack the buffet.

But what if your leftover morning coffee grounds could help stop them? Turns out, squirrels hate the smell of coffee. That rich, toasty aroma we adore is way too strong for their sensitive noses. Scattering used coffee grounds around your bird feeder creates a natural scent barrier. It becomes a no-go zone that's safe, cheap, and surprisingly effective. 

Moreover, garden pests like ants, slugs, chipmunks, and even deer tend to steer clear of it, too. Coffee grounds also double as a mild soil booster, adding organic matter and small amounts of nitrogen to your garden beds over time. Just remember that coffee grounds only protect the area you treat. They won't keep squirrels out of your entire yard, off your roof, or from chewing their way into your attic. If squirrels are causing real damage or moving indoors, you should consult a professional.

Keeping squirrels off your bird feeder with coffee grounds is easier than you'd think, and it doesn't cost a dime if you're already a daily coffee drinker. After you've brewed your cup, don't toss the used grounds. Instead, collect them in a container, and once you've built up a small batch, it's go time. Sprinkle the coffee grounds in a circle around the base of your feeder, aiming for about a half-inch to one-inch layer.

This ring creates a scent barrier that most squirrels won't want to cross. If you don't have any coffee at home, many cafés give away used grounds for free, so don't be shy to ask. You'll need to refresh the barrier at least once a week, and more often after rain. Always use spent grounds because fresh coffee can be too acidic for your plants. That said, go easy on how much you use. A thick pile of coffee grounds can compact and form a crust, making it hard for water and air to reach the soil.

If you're spreading your grounds near plants, mix them lightly into the topsoil or spread them thinly. However, used coffee grounds can still contain caffeine, which is harmful to pets if ingested. Most dogs and cats will steer clear of the smell, but it's best to place the grounds where your pets can't easily reach them. If you're worried, opt for decaf. It's just as stinky to squirrels and much safer for your furry friends.