Bird tables and squirrels

pagepark

My garden is overrun with squirrels. I've successfully squirrel proofed the bird feeding stations. But am stuck with a couple of bird tables ( the sort with a roof )that the squirrels have taken over. They leave nothing behind for the birds. 

I'd like to try covering the table with chicken wire. 

Any ideas which size would keep squirrels out and allow small birds in? 

I'm surprised squirrel proof bird tables aren't available commercially. 

I thought I had found the solution. 

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/188799409370003402/?d=t&mt=login

But I contacted wildlife direct and they don't sell anything suitable. 

Any ideas welcome. 

Fairygirl

You can buy cages specifically for the purpose. I made my own using mesh that has apertures of around 1.5 inches. It was the shelving from one of those useless plastic greenhouses. 
Chicken wire will certainly allow many small birds in.
 
This was from a couple of years ago They regularly try to get in - without success. It's also too tight for starlings



He had a face like a well skelped a*se afterwards. 

They both have well established little green roofs now too. 

Uff

How do they access the bird table pagepark? Do they jump onto it from trees or climb the pole?

pagepark

Thanks for your comments. Please let me know where to buy cages specifically for the purpose. I've searched unsuccessfully on line. 

Yes they go up the post and over the squirrel baffle from the RSPB. The table is in the middle of lawn. 

Fairygirl

There are certainly cages available - a house not far from me has a large one hanging in the garden. Maybe the RSPB would have something.
If it's to use for a table, you may just have to use some wire mesh and attach it though. You can get that in various diy outlets or online.
I think some people also buy bird cages that are normally for indoor use, or those decorative ones. You'd just need to add some wire to the openings to make them smaller.

Those shelves I used from the plastic greenhouse are often cheaper though, and the mesh is a perfect size. You can get them in lots of outlets for about £20- £30. Home Bargains is particularly good, but Homebase or similar will probably stock them too.  I expect lots of stores will have them in soon