It's frustrating to find your beautiful wooden park benches gnawed by squirrels. These rodents chew to wear down their ever-growing teeth and may target your benches for material or out of curiosity. Don't worry—you can stop this with humane and effective strategies.
First, make the wood taste terrible. Apply a commercial squirrel repellent spray containing capsaicin (hot pepper) or bitterants to the bench legs and arms. Reapply after rain. A homemade mix of vinegar and cayenne pepper can also work.
Create a physical barrier. Wrap the bench's most vulnerable legs and corners with metal flashing or hardware cloth (wire mesh). Squirrels can't chew through metal. Ensure the material is smooth and securely attached.
Remove attractants and modify their habitat. Keep the area clean of food scraps, fallen nuts, or birdseed. Trim tree branches that overhang the bench to eliminate easy access routes. Consider providing a distant, alternative chewing spot like a untreated wood block.
Use motion and scent. Install motion-activated sprinklers or lights near the bench to startle them. Predator scents, like those from coyote urine (available at garden stores), can create a threatening zone, but need frequent renewal.
Consistency is key. Squirrels are persistent. Combine two or more methods, like a taste deterrent with a physical barrier, for the best long-term protection. With patience, you can enjoy your benches squirrel-free.