Some of the funniest moments I experienced growing up involved my dad and his ongoing quest to keep squirrels out of the bird feeder hanging from a tree in our yard. First, he would outfit the feeder with homemade booby traps designed to outsmart these crafty woodland creatures. Then, he would sit at the kitchen table daring…DARING…his bushy-tailed foes to try…JUST TRY…to get to the bird food. And after a drawn-out performance of tree acrobatics played against a soundtrack of expletives from my father - the squirrel would reign victorious. Every time.
My father was not alone in his plight. Countless others have faced a similar enemy. Today - we take back our bird feeders, and our sanity, with a trip to Wild Birds Unlimited (WBU) located on Route 22 in Scotch Plains. Here, one can procure “The Eliminator” a bird feeder that when hung or mounted according to instructions (at least 18 inches off the ground and away from the nearest tree limb) is reliably squirrel-proof. Using weight-sensitive technology, the feeder's seed ports close when a squirrel touches the perch ring. The perfect gift for the frustrated bird lover in your life.
Wild Birds Unlimited has been owned by local bird enthusiast, Richard Elliott, since 2017. He offers fellow hobbyists a wide array of backyard bird‑feeding supplies, nature‑themed décor, and unique gifts. His store is immaculately organized, yet cozy and interesting. It is easy to walk around and lob out questions that Richard - or any member of his team - are more than happy to answer. While I am at the store I witness a consistent stream of loyal customers coming in to replenish their seed supply or to get new pieces for their outdoor feeding system. A gentleman named John shares that he drove almost an hour to Richard’s store, specifically for the exceptional customer service he receives, even though he has options closer to his home.
Perhaps you know someone who loves sitting at the window for the quiet pleasure of watching birds visit their yard. Richard will help you find the perfect feeders and seed to create a bird friendly habitat that attracts the birds indigenous to this region. “Bird feeding is a wonderful way to connect with nature right in your own backyard” says Richard. To get you started he offers these gift buying tips and recommendations:
How to Gift?
- For the Beginner / New Hobbyist: Something simple like a hanging tray feeder or a gift card introduces the gift of a new hobby.
- For the Seasoned Bird-Watcher: High-quality feeders, bath heaters, or specialty nectar/hummingbird items—these show you know and appreciate their commitment.
- Consider space and climate: Does the person have a yard, patio, balcony, or an apartment window? Window feeders or hummingbird setups are better for smaller spaces. High-fat seed blends are a great option for winter birds.
What Feeders to Gift?
- The APS Hanging System provides an elegant base for a feeding station
- The Eco Tough Classic Feeder is made of recycled plastic so it won’t crack, fade or rot.
- The Seed Cylinder blends creative design with bird feeder functionality
- The Eliminator Squirrel Proof Feeder for those battling squirrels in their yard like my dad!
Fun & Thoughtful Gifts
- Bird‑themed mugs (with gift boxes) featuring owls, hummingbirds, goldfinches and more.
- Bird Identification Guide Books
- Seed characters and ornaments; whimsical seed cylinders shaped like owls or other animals ready to hang and attract a wide variety of birds.
- Nature-themed home decor items like wind spinners, bird baths, or hand-felted birdhouses crafted by artisans. Unique gifts for indoors and outdoors.
For the bird‑lover in your life, you’re not just giving an object — you’re giving the experience of nature, the joy of surprise visits by birds, and the satisfaction of creating habitat in one’s own backyard. Minus the squirrels!