So I am a bird and squirrel feeding nut. I love having huge flocks of birds at my front window. I've trained the squirrels to eat out of my hand now, too.

The problem is the little rodents are wrecking every feeder I buy. (I'm a poor college kid, so this is quite the exasperation.)

My hanging options are limited. I have a shepherd's hook that stakes into the ground with two prongs, so a baffle is not an option. I hang feeders from my gutter with metal hooks I have at the store.

They climb on my roof and hang upside down like bats to eat the seed rather than finish the ear of corn I set out for them! They chew through the plastic. When the feeder falls, it cracks. Is expensive metal my only option? I love squirrels. They are adorable and I love having them around and feeding them. I'd also like to see some birds and not waste expensive seed.

Perhaps it is time to invest in a pole that permits a baffle. And cut some branches that lead to the roof.

Sigh.