Horse Head Squirrel Feeder: Dress Your Squirrels for the Party
The squirrels were going to raid your yard anyway. Now they will look fabulous doing it.
There is a special place in internet history for the horse head mask, the rubber costume piece that turns any person into an unsettling equine party guest. Archie McPhee took that iconic image and applied it to backyard wildlife. The result is the horse head squirrel feeder, and it is as ridiculous as you would hope.
When a squirrel pokes its head inside to eat, it looks exactly like it is wearing a tiny horse mask.
How does the horse head squirrel feeder work?
The feeder is a hollow vinyl horse head that you hang from a tree branch or hook. You fill it with nuts or seeds, and squirrels climb inside to reach the snacks. According to the product details we checked, it measures about 6.5 by 10 inches, which is just big enough for a squirrel to fit its head and upper body inside.
The result is a steady stream of photos that look like squirrels attending a costume party. Squirrels come and go, and the horse head appears to come alive each time.
It comes from Accoutrements and Archie McPhee, the same novelty folks behind Handerpants, and it has earned a cult following among backyard wildlife fans.
Because it is made of vinyl, it is best to bring it in during harsh weather and clean it occasionally to keep it looking good.
Placement makes a big difference. Hang it somewhere visible from a window, ideally near a branch or fence line squirrels already use as a highway, and they will discover it much faster. Refill it regularly and you will soon have a rotating cast of masked visitors, each more confused-looking than the last.
If you share photos online, prepare for them to be the most popular posts you have ever made.
Horse head squirrel feeder: who it’s for (plus gift ideas)
The horse head squirrel feeder is ideal for backyard wildlife lovers, people who enjoy photographing animals, and anyone who wants the funniest feeder on the block.
It is also a great gift for friends who have a love-hate relationship with the squirrels in their yard.
- Backyard birders who have given up on keeping squirrels away
- Wildlife photographers looking for a funny setup
- Fans of absurd internet humor
- Anyone who already names the squirrels in their yard
Pros and cons
What we like
- Absolutely hilarious to watch
- Great for photos and videos
- Easy to hang and fill
- Made by an iconic novelty brand
- Keeps squirrels busy
What gives us pause
- Squirrels may chew on vinyl over time
- Not weatherproof forever
- Needs a sturdy branch or hook
- Neighbors may have questions
FAQ
How big is the horse head squirrel feeder?
It measures about 6.5 by 10 inches, according to the product details.
What should I put in the horse head squirrel feeder?
Nuts or seeds that squirrels like work well.
Will birds use it too?
It is designed for squirrels, though other small animals may investigate.
Is it durable?
It is vinyl, so it holds up reasonably well but benefits from being brought in during harsh weather.
Should you give your squirrels a horse head?
If you want to make your backyard the funniest place on the block, the horse head squirrel feeder is the move. For more backyard weirdness, see the chicken saddle and the Bob Ross Chia Pet for your windowsill.