Perky-Pet 336 Squirrel-Be-Gone Wild Bird Feeder Review

The Perky Pet 336 Squirrel Be Gone wild bird feeder is a small, compact feeder that has a low seed capacity, but comes equipped with many of the same features and trigger system design that larger models by this manufacturer offers. The durable design, combined with the feeder’s efficient port closing system is one of the reasons why this small feeder remains popular with avid birders. The feeder’s unique design offers a couple of levels of protection, making it incredibly difficult for squirrels to access the contents of the feeder while allowing multiple birds to enjoy using the feeder at the same time. This model is a great buy if you’re struggling with a booming squirrel population and need a model that’s up to the task.

Our Verdict: This compact, smaller bird feeder does a great job of preventing squirrels from getting their hands on your birdseed. It comes with a trigger-activated cage that will slam into place once the weight of the squirrel triggers the system. The decorative leaves work to cover the six feeding ports, making it impossible for squirrels to reach the birdseed. The included cord makes this model easy to hang, which is definitely a plus. This feeder has a smaller seed capacity, which may be a deal-breaker for some people, however, it will ensure that your birds only eat the freshest seeds. This is a great buy if you’re looking for a highly adjustable feeder and one with a reputation for being effective.

Overview and Features

This model features ports that will close once the weight of a squirrel triggers them. This prevents squirrels from accessing the birdseed and cleaning you out. This model is equipped with a total of six seed ports, which allows a variety of birds to use your feeder at the same time. The durable design allows you to leave this model out year round while preventing the elements from ruining the seeds. The feeder is easy to assemble and hang, thanks to the well-written instructions and the built-in cord that will allow you to hang it on a pole, or a nearby branch. The system’s two levels of squirrel security make this model one of the best squirrel proof bird feeders on the market, however, this model is not without its drawbacks.

Design

When you’re shopping around for a bird feeder, aside from a design that prevents squirrels from touching the birdseed, you need a model that’s durable and able to be left outdoors year-round, especially during the winter months. Fortunately, this is a model that was clearly designed with durability in mind, which is evident based on the types of materials it’s made out of.

This isn’t like your usual squirrel proof bird feeder. Not only is this model functional, but it features a decorative leaf-themed design that will make it a beautiful addition to any yard. This is a weight-activated model that features a powder-coated finish that will prevent the feeder from rusting when left out during the rainy season. The metal design also works to prevent the squirrels from chewing right through the security cage in order to access the birdseed. The feeder’s U-shaped perches will allow birds of all sizes to perch and enjoy mealtime in total comfort. The built-in cord allows you to easily hang the feeder from the branch of a tree, a hook from the patio’s cover, or you can attach it to a hook on a pole.

Security

The perches are weight-sensitive, which means once a squirrel places their weight on one of them, this activates a spring-loaded system that will cause a cage to pull down, preventing the squirrel from reaching right in to grab some seeds. The system is calibrated to only support the weight of birds, which weigh significantly less than a squirrel. Once the cage is in place, the decorative leaves become functional, working to cover the seed ports, taking away the squirrel’s ability to eat their fill. The metal cage not only adds much-needed protection from squirrels, but the metal will prevent the squirrel from chewing through it.

Multiple Bird Use

The six ports allow several birds to feed at the same time since the ports are spaced evenly around the feeder’s reservoir. The U-shaped perches are designed with the bird’s comfort in mind and are very supportive. The ability to feed more birds at the same time ensures that the birds that visit your yard are well fed, which is a big deal, especially during the winter months. Because the perches are evenly spaced out, each bird will have plenty of a room, which can prevent squabbles from breaking out between hungry birds in a hurry to eat.

Seed Capacity

This model has a lower than average seed capacity which can be a drawback for some since it means you will need to refill the feeder more frequently. The seed capacity comes in at two pounds. However, the lower seed capacity will also prevent issues with mold and bacteria. When it rains, or when it’s very humid out, moisture can make its way into a feeder. The moisture will cause bacteria and/or mold growth, which can cause serious illnesses in birds. The fact that this feeder must be refilled more often will work to significantly cut down on these issues. The clear design of the feeder will allow you to keep a close eye on the seed level, so you can refill it when needed.

Weight Adjustability

Many models in this price range don’t allow the user to adjust how sensitive the perch trigger system is, so it’s a surprise that this feeder offers this option, and it’s definitely a plus for the birder who wants to reserve the birdseed for smaller birds.

You can choose from three different weight options. Even if the model is set at the highest weight setting, the system will still become triggered under the weight of a squirrel. These weight settings are designed to prevent certain larger species of birds from feeding, such as blackbirds and grackles, which can scare off smaller birds while the larger birds clean out your bird feeder.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros

Cons

Perky Pet Versus Squirrel Buster Plus Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder w/Cardinal Ring

The Squirrel Buster is one of this model’s top competitors. It comes loaded with some great features including a seed ventilation system that prevents mold growth, and a cardinal ring that’s designed to attract these beautiful birds and other orange birds of North America. Like the Perky Pet feeder, this model allows you to adjust the weight system so you can have total control over which size of birds eat at your feeder. The competing model has a seed capacity of three quarts and offers the same type of design that the Perky Pet does, as far as the seed ports closing once the weight of the squirrel triggers the system. However, the Perky Pet option offers both a cage and the leaves to protect the feeder, whereas the Squirrel Buster only works to shut the seed ports. Both are available at a comparable price, but this model easily beats out the competing feeder, thanks to its innovative design.

Conclusion and Rating

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This is a smaller bird feeder that’s perfect for any yard. The charming design is very eye-catching, but it’s also very functional. This model features a cage design that works to prevent squirrels from chewing threw the body of the feeder to access the seeds. The addition of the leaves, which work to cover the feeding ports, offers a whole new level of protection that’s sure to deter most squirrels. The biggest drawback with this feeder is the smaller seed capacity, however, since it can cut down on the chances of birds eating moldy birdseed, many birders will see the lower capacity as a plus. I gave this model a rating of four and a half stars out of five.