Squirrels can be quite the mischievous little creatures, and while they may be cute, they can also cause some serious issues for bird box camera users. One of their most concerning habits is their tendency to chew through electrical wires. For our cameras that are wired... well it's just not ideal.
So, why do squirrels chew on wires in the first place? Like many rodents, their teeth grow incredibly fast, and they need to gnaw to keep them at a manageable length. It’s kind of like a constant dental appointment to keep their teeth sharp and in check! Now, if you’re looking to protect your wiring from these furry little culprits, we’ve got some handy tips for you!
First up, you can cover your wires with PVC piping. Just find the wires that are most accessible to the squirrels, then take a piece of PVC piping and cut it lengthwise. Slip it over the wires so they’re snug inside the pipe. To make it even less appealing for those little nibblers, wrap the PVC with soft insulation. Squirrels usually prefer chewing hard materials, so this extra layer might just do the trick. The slippery PVC can also make it tougher for squirrels to get a good grip!
Next, check for any downspouts or railings that lead up to the wires. A simple way to deter them is to cover these with masking tape. A slippery surface can make it a lot less inviting for the squirrels to climb up to those tempting wires. By taking these precautions, you can help keep your camera connection safe from squirrel-related mishaps!
