Ground feeding sanctuary wide mesh

3.6105263158 out of 5

95

Having previously purchased one of these ground feeding cages, (wide mesh) some years ago, I recently required another one. I am so disappointed in the quality of the metal and the construction. It is flimsy and I have had to use cable ties to hold the sides in place as the metal rings which were supplied were insufficient. I would not recommend this product.

Having bought two of the earlier models several years ago, we were very disappointed with the current model. It is flimsy, much more difficult to manoeuvre because of this. My husband has tried to strengthen it by wiring the corners together, but we should not need to do this? It compares very, very poorly with our still usable much older model. We would rather pay more for a robust protector than less for this. Please, RSPB, do a re-think and go back to using stronger materials.

Really pleased to have something that offers some cover for the blackbirds that are frequent visitors. Sparrows and robins are big fans as well.
Younger magpies do fit in this (and like running away with the quarters of the suet cakes that we put out) so keep an eye if you get a lot of them.
Definitely recommend, in spite of the above.

Mesh large enough for squirrels

The robins and tits quickly entered the 'sanctuary' - though 'cage' is more what it looks like. After a day of suspicious observation the blackbirds also got used to hopping in and out. Pigeons can stick their necks in and get some of the items of food nearest the edge, but I don't mind that, I wanted to stop them hoovering up the whole lot. It also protects from cats - I have video of a neighbour's cat eating the mealworms (!) The item is ready-constructed, you just need to unfold it and flip the lid on top. The only negative for me is that it does look like a bird cage, but that's a necessary trade-off for saving the food from the pigeons and cats.

I deliberately chose the wider mesh as I hoped this might provide sanctuary for Blackbirds and still keep out the grey squirrels but the latter just laughed as they sauntered in. Disappointed

We were inundated with pigeons & seemed to be spending a fortune on seed feeding them & the smaller birds didn't get a look in. This product works a treat. The robin, blackbird, dunnock, starlings etc can now feed at will without being hounded out by the bigger birds. With the savings we will make on seed this ground protector will pay for itself within a couple of months.

This ground feeding protector is flimsily constructed; the light-weight metal is so badly warped that it does not sit level on the ground. As a result, the lid does not close properly, so a peculiar clasp resembling a dog lead clip has been included to jam it shut, almost as an after-thought.
Most alarmingly, a few hours after I installed this less than impressive contraption I was summoned to the garden by a distress call which turned out to be a furious male blackbird who had become wedged in one of the mesh squares. Fortunately he managed to wrest himself free before I had to intervene but it was very distressing for us both.
An extremely disappointing piece of equipment from the RSPB, who frankly should know better.

The feeder is well constructed and easy to setup. The smaller birds, up to the blackbirds, use it happily, however some of the larger birds can still get their head through to eat from the feeder. Pigeons can’t, but the pheasants can, as can the cockerel that comes from down the road. If the cage could be a little larger in relation to the table that would solve it.

Excellent for deterring pigeons and crows etc. I have used it for two months but my blackbirds still are suspicious, and none have used it, so I still have to put feed outside on the ground for them!
The cage is good for small birds and is used all the time. My only recommendation is that if you are putting it on lawn, you need to move it every day, or else use a mesh ground feeding tray, as the bird food can stain the grass. (? the oil in the seeds?). I also don't use the hooks to anchor it to the ground (too much faff), and just put a half brick on top to deter it being knocked over. It also makes it easier to lift and move around the lawn to a new patch.

We purchased the wide mesh to enable Blackbirds to go in and out to feed and to stop Pigeons from taking the food before the little birds had a chance. The little birds were in and out straight away. Woke up the second day to find a adult squirrel going in and out at will, not good, disappointing

Originally, I bought this in conjunction with the Woodlock ground feeder, to prevent magpies and pigeons chowing down on all the good food for the blackbirds and smaller.
Alas, the food spread, and the larger unwanted birds still managed to poke their heads in, and grab the food from the edges of the woodlock feeder.
I had a spare mesh feeder left over from one of my feeding stations, so I put this in the middle of the woodlock, then surrounded that with this cage, and hey presto! It's take a while, but the pigeons and magpies have finally given up and gone elsewhere (after wearing a track around the outside of the cage in the lawn, where they used to circle round and round and round, looking for any way in, but failing).
So, if you're after this as a way of keeping pigeons, magpies and the like out, then this, the woodlock ground feeder (to keep the food away from the ground, so less slugs, certainly if you add copper tape to the legs to dissuade them, and also dryer), and a smaller mesh in the middle to keep the food away from the edges.
It's now a favourite haven of the birds. Blackbirds, thrushes and all the small birds that can grab the food from the feeder, or the slightly different fare that goes in the ground feeder are having a whale of a time now.

Finally, the blackbirds can eat their food, because the pigeons and rooks can't reach it! In the past, I put out food and, before the blackbirds could reach it, every nibble was taken by larger birds.
Please could you produce a perspex lid that can be clipped securely onto the cage? When it rains, the food sticks together and the birds can't eat it. Thank you

Whilst it would be preferable for the protector to be a little larger, it certainly keeps out the pigeons as intended. They circle it in bemusement whilst the blackbirds, starlings and sparrows feed happily inside.
The comment about hedgehogs in the information on the protector are valid as I didn’t take mine up in time tonight and there was a hedgehog inside happily eating the mealworms remaining. As I approached, he/she tried to exit via one of the smaller holes and got stuck so I had to help him out.

Blackbirds can get through the wide mesh and feed, leaving the wood pigeons on the outside which is just what my parents wanted. Perfect.

Unfortunately, Magpies, Wood Pidgeons, Crows, Seagulls, etc.,! Just put their heads through and feed.
Think a larger cage altogether would probably suffice, taking into consideration the length of necks and abilities of these larger birds.
Please come up with something; you Re RSPB.

I bought this protector to prevent feral pigeons, wood pigeons and magpies gobbling up all the food I put out. I also hoped that it would permit blackbirds and smaller birds to enter.
It is certainly effective in keeping out pigeons, doves and magpies. I was very interested in watching the magpies trying out all the methods of entry which they could think of - but failing to get in !
Unfortunately my local blackbirds have failed to enter, despite a number of efforts.
Overall a good buy.

I agree with the review of earlier this year as it only leaves a couple of inches all round from the table and the family of 6 magpies in our garden just lean through the bars and eat all the meal worms except those in the very centre of the table. They are also keeping the smaller birds away. It would need to be about six inches away from the table edges to keep the magpies and pigeons away, which is what we'd hoped for.

RSPB response: Thank you for your review, I am sorry to hear you are unhappy with this product. We will take your comments on board regarding magpies still being able to get in, however we did work with our wildlife team when designing this product to ensure the specifications were suitable to still allow small birds in. It does take some time for birds to adjust to new products, so hopefully the smaller birds will be using it soon.

We put out food for all the birds, but only small amounts at a time - to avoid unwanted rodent action. Unfortunately we have a resident wood-pigeon who just hangs around and hoovers up anything we're not keeping an eye on. It means the smaller birds never get a look-in, after the first visit. Having been reduced to running around the garden chasing it off - we bought this to see if it would help. It's BRILLIANT. We dropped it over the patch of ground where we sprinkle the food and the robins came straight over - not put off in the slightest. The blackbirds and tits are also now hopping in and out - all within about 24hrs of it appearing. The pigeon has walked around it - but realised it's a lost cause and now contents himself with getting his own portion, which we put on lawn (..can't persecute it just for being pigeon-y).

Ordered the large wire mesh ground protector as a last resort to try and keep feral pigeons from eating everything I put out for the birds. They are increasing in numbers at my expense. I received it this morning and as said by previous customers I would have liked it to be a lot bigger. Twice the size really. Nevertheless I put it straight into the garden with some tasty morsels and prepared to wait and see what would happen. Straight away the black bird came and had a look all around it and then popped straight in. When he went a Robin and a couple of sparrows did the same. Then two pigeons came down and looked very confused. You could imagine what they were thinking. They looked all the way round but couldn't find a way in. Brilliant. The only trouble is that the blackbird is bossy and wont allow other birds in. That's why I would have preferred a bigger cage to give the birds more space. Other than that it's everything I had hoped it would be. Thank you.

As others have commented I also feel that this cage protector should be larger. Perhaps just by a couple of inches all the way round. I have to make sure I keep the food to the centre of the tray or the pigeons get their heads in. The smaller birds won't feed while the pigeons are flapping thier wings to keep their balance. I don't want to get the smaller mesh cage as this would stop the blackbirds and thrush getting to the food.

RSPB response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry you feel the cage to be too small and are having difficulty getting the smaller birds. It is a difficult balance to get right but we will feed back your comments to the product team.

A few reviews about squirrel access. I think RSPB need to check the access then add the fact to the DISCRIPTION section. . Purchased January 2017, fixed in garden. within a day their was a squirrel actually inside the cage on the feed tray. Returning to RSPB requesting narrower version. Apart from that it looks a good product.

RSPB response: Thank you for your review, we would like to clarify that the ground protector wide mesh does not claim to be squirrel proof, in fact it does not mention squirrels in the description at all. It is designed to stop large birds from feeding where you only want small to medium sized birds feeding. We do have many squirrel deterrents in our range but not anything we would class as completely squirrel proof.

I bought this primarily to feed the ground feeders and omit the largest ones as many others. At first, all the small and even the blackbird used it, whilst the pigeons and magpies were prevented. Unfortunately, this morning when it was frozen over, an adult magpie driven by hunger, has managed to squeeze himself in and out successfully, many times. Given this, it will haver to be returned. They will not be thwarted anymore. It is an excellent product, but has no purpose for me anymore. Magpies just won't leave me in peace, not that I'm a magpie hater, but they are hellish in my garden. I don't want them around, but they pay absolutely no heed to this. Why should they? Good point, but it's our garden, our space, our home. My garden is both misery and joy.

I have used this product for a couple of years. It is great in that starlings and sparrows, and the odd robin, can safely feed inside, or more often, can take bread and mealworms out and fly off safely. Magpies and bigger birds cannot access the sanctuary. However, I would like a bigger protector, as large birds can peck through the mesh with the present size which is intimidating for the birds within it. So, the pigeons are quite offputting to birds unless they are in a large group. So please could you design a bigger version. I tried putting 2 together, but because of the sloping sides it did not work!

On the whole I am pleased with my ground protector. Blackbirds are getting in easily, pigeons can't and the birds are protected from cats. The only thing I'm disappointed with is that I've just seen a squirrel sat inside the feeder like it's his own private dining room! When I went out he just slipped through the mesh as if it wasn't there, rats would obviously be able to do the same!

RSPB response: Thank you for your review, we are glad you are pleased with our ground protector. We do not claim that this version will stop squirrels, gaps large enough to allow blackbirds will unfortunately be too large to prevent squirrels, which can squeeze through a smaller gap.

I ordered this ground protector with the table that fits inside, I had plenty of doubts after reading reviews, but was desperate to stop the pigeons eating all the blackbirds sultanas.
It took nearly three weeks for the blackbirds to pluck up enough courage to go inside but WOW they are in & out all day long now, After adding homemade suet balls the robins constantly use it too, but I was especially worried that the song thrushes wouldn't go inside but they didn't even hesitate, I am over the moon with this purchase & would highly recommend BUT PLEASE BE PATIENT WHILE THEY GET USED TO IT.

Only little niggle is that you can't put food near the edge of table as the pigeons can still poke their heads through, but mine have now given up

Blackbirds and starlings can get through the mesh, but unfortunately, so can squirrels.

RSPB response: Thank you for your review. We do not claim that this version will stop squirrels, gaps large enough to allow blackbirds will unfortunately be too large to prevent squirrels, which can squeeze through a smaller gap.

I have only a small garden and it's great to see the wildlife - but when 11+ pigeons descend on the food I put out there is very little left for the other birds, not to mention the damage they do to the grass. I still want to feed the birds, but not the pigeons - so I bought the larger mesh protector.
Within minutes the robins were happily feeding from the food i'd placed inside. The blackbirds have also adapted to hopping through the bars to get to the food as have the starlings and the great tits and blue tits.
The pigeons constantly try to get to the food in the middle, but without success. I would definitely recommend this product. Be aware that larger birds who can't fit through will poke their heads through as far as possible, so make sure the ground feeder you use isn't too big, or put too near the edge, otherwise they will reach the food.

I love it! Since putting this cage in the garden all the small birds, Robin's, dunnocks, tits and blackbirds have bee able to eat without the big birds stealing all the food. I also noticed I've put much less food out so its saving me money too!

We bought this because there seems to be more and more pigeons arriving in our Garden stealing all the food I put out in just a few minutes, this protector keeps the pigeons out and the magpies but unfortunately the only other birds that we have are Starlings about 15 of them that are around all day, and 1 or 2 male Blackbirds, we bought the wide mesh so that they could get in to feed but neither the Starlings or the Blackbirds will go any where near it, we have seen the odd pigeon sitting on top of it but no birds inside it ever, we wondered if maybe the holes a not big enough for the Blackbirds or Starlings to get through, so now we are back to putting the food back onto the table or ground only to watch the pigeons gobble it all up in a few minutes, leaving nothing for the other birds, any suggestions as to what else we can do, should I make the holes bigger ?

RSPB response:
Thank you for your review. The wide mesh is certainly large enough for starlings and blackbirds although as with any feeder it can taken them some time to pluck up the courage to use it. As they get more confident they should is it much more often.

Be aware if you buy the wide mesh guardian not only does it allow squirrels access but also magpies and moorhens long necks, whilst I don't mind feeding all birds it was for the smaller birds I bought it and they won't come to it when the larger birds are scoffing. So I have bought the smaller mesh one as well

RSPB response:
Thank you for your review. We do state that the larger mesh version will allow squirrels to access. The narrow version will prevent more larger birds and squirrels from feeding.

Staff at the RSPB shop recommended this product because I told them that the seagulls ate all the food I provided for the small birds. I am sorry to say but it is totally useless, the gulls just poke their heads through and eat all the food.

RSPB response:
Thank you for your review. It seems as though the narrow mesh version may be more suitable for you. If you return to the shop they should be able to help with this.

I used to sneak out with ground food when I though that there were no pigeons about - but they were always on the ground before I got back into the house - the blackbirds etc never got a look in. Now I can enjoy seeing blackbirds, robin, sparrows and blue-tits eat in peace whilst the pigeons look on.I also purchased a ground feeder table but the blackbirds didn't have room to push through the bottom mesh (their preferred entry point) so put in a smaller dish and they were in within a few minutes.

I bought this product as we are plagued by feral pigeons. We made the mistake of feeding a racing pigeon that we found in our garden a couple of years ago. She was very tired and needed food and water. But the consequence was she joined up with the wild birds and brought them to get fed here too! Now 20 of them sit on our roof from sunrise to sunset, just waiting for the smaller birds to drop the food or they just steal it outright when they can. I looked at several products and this one seemed to have the best overall reviews and the RSPB price was the lowest I could find. I set the protector up and placed a metal feeding tray in it with seed mix and sunflower seeds.. It wasn't even 2 minutes after getting to the window to watch them, that a brave little Coal Tit went straight in. Then a Robin followed, then a Blue Tit and Dunnock. I watched for an hour, to see numerous Coals and Blues thoroughly enjoying themselves. There were a couple of Sparrows that gave it a go but they mostly watched, then decided to stick to the traditional feeders. I honestly couldn't believe how quickly they took to it, I was thrilled. I thought it would be there for days, if not weeks. We take the tray in overnight, so we don't get rodents, but the birds are straight back in it as soon as they see the seed. The feral pigeons spend their time going around and around the protector trying to figure out how to get in, but so far they have only been able to pick up the odd dropped seed.

The blackbirds , Robins, dunnocks, tits, sparrows, starlings, all use the table and the feral pigeons that I was having a real problem with as well as the wood pigeons can no longer eat everything. The squirrel has, unfortunately, discovered he can use it. However, the pigeons no longer bother me so very happy with result. Used to have about 20 pigeons sitting on the roof just waiting for me to put out the food. One, and only one, has worked out how to hang on the other feeders flapping his wings frantically and eating. I think he probably uses more energy than the food he is eating can replace! Do have a problem with food getting wet.

I bought the large mesh feeder mainly for blackbirds and starlings but I have found magpies can get in and the seagulls (we are near the coast) manage to get their head and neck in and consume large amounts of food before the blackbirds can get a look in.
I now only put a very small amount of food on the tray and hope the blackbirds manage to get their fair share.
A bit disappointed with this product.

My husband and I bought this, together with the Ground feeding table, and it is amazing! Within moments of us setting it up, it was in business! We see blackbirds, thrush, starlings, sparrows, robins to name a few. I love doing the washing up now at the kitchen window and watching the birds not only on our hanging feeders, which we have had for many years, but the plethora of birds that dine on the table. It is one of the best items we have ever bought and would suggest everyone purchase one. In fact, my mother-in-law loves it so much, we are going to buy her one for her birthday!

I bought this to try and deter Jackdaws and their friends as they eat too much, push the other birds away and cause too much chaos in my small garden. The smaller birds (starling and below) learned to use it with no bother but I'm not sure about the blackbirds/ thrush as I cannot see the feeder easily where it is positioned. I was a bit worried the jackdaws would just sit on the top of it cawing, but I've seen fewer since I've had this cage.

This product,which I purchased with a ground feeder bird table,is worth every penny. I only ever saw Wood Pigeons and Collared Doves in my back garden,who hogged the bird table.Now I see robins,blackbirds and more using my ground feeder table in safety. The pigeons and Doves can't fit through the mesh but still use the bird table so everyone is happy. Before I bought this, I wouldn't put food on the ground due to local cats,now my garden is enhanced by the beautiful birds which now visit me on a regular basis.

Robin and Dunnock the first to be regular visitors.
The family of magpies soon followed though.
Six of them soon take all the food.

Within minutes of installing this over the ground feeder the robin was inside, happily eating meal worms. Others soon followed. I've seen a dunnock and a blackbird checking it out, although they haven't ventured inside yet. But it's only been up for about two hours, so I'm very pleased.

A magpie sat and glared on the fence but didn't even attempt to fly down, whereas before they would just clear the ground feeder in minutes.

The wide mesh is definitely not squirrel proof. The first visitor within minutes of setting it up was an adult squirrel. In fact we now have four squirrels who are regular visitors.

RSPB response - Thanks for your review. The ground protector is not 'squirrel proof'. It's primary purpose is to protect ground-feeding birds from predators, with the additional benefit that it can also help to deter squirrels. Squirrels come in all shapes and sizes, and they are intelligent and resourceful creatures. If you would like to arrange a refund or replacement, please contact our Customer Services Team.

I bought the large mesh to keep off the magpies, which it does. The small birds use it but the blackbirds won't go near it, they look to big to get into it anyway.

This product is very well made of a nice strong metal.
It was perfect for me being disabled as it simply folds out leaving no self assembly other than to open it out.

I bought this item as I seem to be feeding the local magpie population -all 6 of them! And they scoff everything I put out for the little birds.
I also have a squirrel problem, 3 of them feed in my garden :(

I purchased this wider mesh enclosure as I wanted to feed the blackbirds - I also have a pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers that visit to feed on suet so I thought maybe they would be able to use this too?

The birds are not getting a look in unfortunately as the 3 squirrels hop in and out with complete ease - this morning I watched them hop through it like it was a game!

However, if you have a pigeon problem or just bigger bird issues I would highly recommend this product. The dunnock and blackbirds have loved it - when the squirrel has been kind enough to leave them his scraps.!

I want to buy the smaller mesh one to try that but I don't want to spite the blackbirds, woodpeckers and collared doves really- although this feeder was no good for the doves anyway.

Hmmmm...... the battle between bird lover and squirrel continues ;)

Bought this to discourage Magpies in my garden but allow blackbirds and smaller to feed unhindered. I had read a few reviews that said the blackbirds wouldn't go near the protector but all of mine use it with no problem. Have noticed a lot more varieties of smaller bird using the ground feeder now as well.
As to the Magpies, initially, being clever so and so's they figured out that they just needed to pop their heads in to reach the food so with a little modification - a broken half of tall terracotta pot with the back to one side of the mesh and the food in a feeder inside it, I think we have cracked the problem.
Job done :0)

I have owned this for around 3 years now in different houses. It has seen some use and moving around and it still functioning although the metal clasps need tightening from time to time. I got the large mesh to allow the blackbirds in but we do get the occasional adult squirrel. A greater spotted woodpecker is also a regular visitor at the moment. Most of the smaller birds are a bit timid to go in when the larger birds are there so I have just purchased the adjustable ground feeder just for them! You can waste hours with one of these in your garden. My dad was jealous so I had to get him one as well!

I bought this feeder guardian because the Jackdaws, Crows and Rooks had discovered my secluded bird feeders and ended up scaring all the smaller birds away. It was with great delight that I watched them trying to get at the food but then flying off in disgust.

I was also pleased that the first bird to go into the feeder within half an hour of putting it out was a blackbird, who I thought might be a bit shy of it. Within an hour or so all the smaller birds were going in and out quite happily.

I also have a Jay who has mastered it but I can put up with that as he doesn't come round too often.

The structure of the cage is a bit floppy but it does its job. I have used extra fasteners as I have it on a shelf about 2 feet off the ground. I have to fasten it down securely as I have badgers who eat all the food thats left and it's managed to keep them out.

All in all a good product.

I wish to edit to my last review; I was saying the guardian ground feeder mesh wouldn't keep the squirrels out which it won't, however, since then I realise I had ordered the wide mesh inadvertently instead of the intended narrow mesh; I have now re-ordered the narrow mesh and hope it does the grand job of keeping them, the same as the pitched roof type guardian mesh cover does, fingers crossed ! Perhaps a highlighted warning tab on mesh selection would be helpful on the two photos of the Guardian as they do look the same item on first inspection, even though you do use the words wide and narrow.

I was desperate for soemthing that the pigeons couldn't get into and this is fantastic. We used to have a garden full of pigeons, now, we just get a couple trying to work out how to access the gourmet! We just chase them off and it is getting rarer to see even a couple now. We don't have a squirrel problem here as such so cant comment, although I would be surprised if they could squeeze through.

It is an absolutel delight to see birds of quite a few varieties enjoying the contents, undisturbed. I love it! I have to put out a good spread on a daily basis. I have put overlapping roof tiles on the top to keep it all dry and they work a treat and also weigh it down a bit.

Delighted with my purchase!

I have had mine for a few months now and I am very pleased with it.

I needed a method to continue feeding the song birds while discouraging the enormous flock of pigeons that had built up during the summer months.

The small birds and starlings went in straight away but it took a few days for the blackbirds to pluck up courage.

I did not expect miracles; I knew it would need a roof to keep the food dry and a central tray (I use a small cat litter tray) to keep the food in the middle, out of reach of larger birds poking their heads through the mesh. There is plenty of space for a suet block, bird pudding and a dish of mealworms as well as the usual mixed bird foods and seed.

The squirrels can get in and out easily which is fine by me but so far it has kept the neighbourhood cats out as well as the pigeons, woodpigeons, sparrowhawks and magpies.

The only real fault I found was the clip to hold the top/door closed, I struggled to open it, so I replaced it with a 'normal' dog-lead clip.

I purchased this product last winter, and was horrified this morning to find an adult squirrel feeding from within. I tapped the window, and it got out through the bars with great ease. So if you are purchasing this thinking the squirrels will not get inside - forget it - they will. Going to take this up with RSPB.

RSPB response - I'm sorry you're not happy with your purchase, but we don't claim that the wide mesh protector will stop squirrels. The description does state 'The wide mesh will exclude large birds, such as pigeons and doves.' and 'This mesh size will not stop squirrels.' The ground protector's main function is protect small birds from predators.

I've had this protector for some time now. For a long time I didn't have starlings, but over the last couple of months a large group have found my garden and are loving the food. As other reviews have mentioned, there is no point buying the small mesh version as it doesn't keep them out either. But I was shocked to find a couple of days ago that a MAGPIE can get in with no obvious effort to squeeze in, so if you have lots of magpies this is no good. Happily the magpie doesn't seem too interested in my feeder and hasn't been back but it is irritating to know that it can get in. Also the loop for attaching the clip to has snapped off after rusting - I was under the impression that the covering was supposed to prevent this. Luckily it isn't vital and I can still close it without but it is more effort now, and the lid sags inwards as it has no support to remain flat.

Having been plagued by feral pigeons, from a local town, where feeding of Pigeons has been banned, and families of Jackdaws, which has cost a fortune in bird food, we purchased this product and within a day it has done what the label says. Both pigeons and Jackdaws are miffed and stopped visiting our bird feeding station within a day, giving our families of Blackbirds, Robins and other small ground feeding birds a chance. Excellent product, highly recommended.

Very happy with this as it stops the pigeons, doves and magpies from eating the food, just as I'd hoped. Food needs to be positioned centrally, though, as the magpies can poke their beaks through quite a way, but a 4-5 inch gap seems to stop them. Song thrush, blackbirds and even a greater spotted woodpecker have all fed inside it, as well as the smaller birds such as robin, dunnock, blue tits, great tits, long-tailed tits, greenfinches, house sparrows and chaffinches.
I haven't had to use the pegs supplied as I've had no trouble with it staying where I put it and it's easier to move round when mowing the lawn etc., but if pets or young children are around the pegs might be very useful.
Unfortunately, the starlings have now discovered it and have taken over, so I would like a smaller-meshed version that excludes them but this seems to be a significant oversight by the RSPB as the narrow-meshed version will also admit starlings. A definite gap in the market!

My ground birds wouldn't come inside to feed except one brave robin so after 3 months I gave up. One day while seeing pigeons yet again devour the food on my bird table I had the idea of putting the ground cage over the bird table. It is brilliant. For some reason all my garden birds that can fit through the large mesh happily come through to feed on the bird table. It keeps out the pigeons and other large birds and I am very happy with the result. The cage is pretty resistant to movement except when the squirrel decides to jump from the fence and tips it to one side but I just readjust it over the bird table roof and in over a year with this method the table has remained upright.

Was worried by some negative reviews but purchased anyway as fed up of feeding local population of rooks and jackdaws. Within five minutes of setting up the starlings were hopping in and out happily. Have also had blackbirds, chaffinches, dunnock, robin and even yellowhammers going in over the weekend. Product seems sturdy enough and lid lifts for refilling feeder tray. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend.

I've just purchased this to complement a similar item which I bought from RSPB several years ago. The current version is NOWHERE NEAR as good as the older ones.

On the the previous model the roof section could be secured to the four walls, as the only part of the roof which opened was the central section - a bit like a hatch. By securing the roof to the four walls you end up with a very rigid structure, especially when additional cable-ties are used. On the current model the entire roof pivots, which means there's no way to secure the roof to the sides (assuming you want to actually lift the roof) which makes the whole structure very unstable. Pegs are supplied, which would help stability, but goes against the whole ethos of periodically moving your feeder around the garden. I also had to squeeze the clips together with pliers as they were barely closed.

I've ended up modifying the new unit to make it like the old one, the tradeoff being that I have to lift the whole unit off in order to access the feeder tray.

Please go back to the old model, where the roof can be fixed to the sides. Much much better than the currently, flimsy model. It's not the usual RSPB quality I'm afraid.

Bought the large meshed frame this week because of feral pigeons and magpies being a nuisance. We now have two pigeons left taking it in turns to guard the frame and walk round and round and chase the other birds away. Perhaps some research should be done on bird psychology because watching them all take it in turns inside the frame is fascinating but only one is allowed in at any one time, either robin, tit, sparrow, starling or blackbird. The others queue up but Cpl Pigeon chases them off so they have to keep wasting energy flying off and coming back again. Think we need to get a water soaker to see them off. We also have hanging feeders but obviously need to get catch bowls to attach now. Sometimes it looked like the starlings were throwing bits of bread out for the pigeon but now it seems they have learnt their lesson!! Perhaps a transparent waterproof roof could be designed to protect the food?

This is easy to install and to move and robust but I was still feeding pigeons until I watched them just putting their heads inside and still reaching food. now I carefully only put food on a tray in the centre. I still have a problem with squirrels and the mesh easily admits them.

This product is not suitable for keeping rooks out. Being cunning blighters, they'll simply stick their heads through the gaps to get at the food. Whilst I am not averse to feeding rooks, I do not want the smaller birds to be frightened away. Please, please please please PLEASE (x1,000) design a larger version of this product, so that rooks, pheasants etc. can't get to the food. I don't want to buy the narrow-mesh version, as this keeps blackbirds out.

Recently had an influx of pigeons that ate all the food in the mornings, bullying the smaller birds out of the way. Although the starlings, sparrows and blue/coal tits were happy to feed from the hanging feeders, the regular dunnocks, robins and blackbirds were left with nothing. Heartbreaking!
This ground feeder protector seems to have done the job. Pigeons walk around the cage looking frustrated, occasionally poking their heads through the mesh to try to get some food. (To be honest, I don't mind if they get some ""spillage"" near the perimeter - the great thing is the smaller birds nip inside and feed in peace).
I don't have problems with squirrels, badgers or other animals, so this is perfect for my needs. Well worth the money.

This is surely the best 'bird item' we have ever bought. It allows all the 'normal-sized' birds including blackbirds and starlings to feed in peace yet keeps the pigeons and doves outside. Just watching their reactions has given us hours of pleasure. Thank you RSPB!

I bought this Flat-topped ground feeding sanctuary in December 2011 because any food left on the ground for Dunnocks was immediately grabbed by the many pigeons and seagulls in this area. I didn't quite believe that the large mesh would be big enough to allow easy access to my blackbirds, but I was wrong. Within moments of setting the Sanctuary up on the patio the blackbirds went straight in, followed as soon as they had finished by sparrows, blue tits, and dunnocks. So it has continued. I am DELIGHTED with the success of this product..thank you

Had the narrow gauge for about a month now and everyone seems happy with it. The corvids and pigeons only took a day to work out that they could not get in and don't really go near it now, leaving the smaller birds in peace. The mesh is big enough to admit startlings (sometimes so many it's like those record-breaking attempts at the most people in a Mini!), but when its unoccupied after these brief raids the robins and tits, etc visit.

My main object in buying this was to keep all the pigeons out, as we have a huge problem with as many as sixty around all day, and it worked really well for that but even adult squirrels have been getting in and today I saw a fully grown rabbit get the whole of its front half into it so it could happily stuff itself on the food and keep out the small birds. Since we have as much of a problem with rabbits as with pigeons, I don't want to have to buy enough bird food to feed that population as well, so will have to replace them with the small mesh sanctuary even if that does mean the blackbirds, thrushes and moorhens can't then feed.

I'm surprised by the bad reviews on this item. I found it quite excellent, in fact the best bird feeding item i have ever bought! I bought the wide mesh cage as i had a problem with pigeons. Every morning i feed the birds and last summer i got to a point where i felt i was going to have to stop. I love all birds including pigeons but there were a whole large flock (around 30) bombarding my garden every day - all day. Within a week of using this product over my ground feeder the pigeons had gone and my lovely blackbirds/starlings/dunnocks and sparrows could feed in peace. Superb! I would recommend this product to anyone with a pigeon problem. I'm sure my neighbours are happier too - as the pigeons liked to pearch on their houses/cars to get a better view of my lawn! Best product i've ever bought from the rspb!

After reading the reviews, I bought the wide-spaced version of the guardian as I wanted the blackbirds to be able to feed. There was no mention of badgers among the reviews! I put out the frame, with the stabilising pegs firmly in place. The second day, it was upturned in the morning, again the third day, despite having a heavy stone on the frame. We have badgers around us, and the evidence of digging the ground beside the frame clearly points to them. Looks like I'm going to have to take the ground feeder in every evening if I want the birds to feed during the day! - Any suggestions, please?

I bought the large mesh to stop pigeons & magpies eating everything. It worked. What has really surprised me though is that 3 nights ago I found a HEDGEHOG inside eating up the leftover mealworms and bits of peanuts. It was funny watching it trying to get out again once it had had it's fill. It's been back every night. Now outside, eating cat food and mealworms provided.

I bought the larger mesh version of this as I wanted to continue feeding my starlings and blackbirds and stop pigeons from devouring everything. Initially, I was delighted as it did the job; starlings and robins soon found their way inside and could eat in peace and safety. The pigeons could only hover around outside. Unfortunately, I underestimated their persistence and within two days a pigeon had squeezed through the bars. I didn't really mind the odd one but the real problem was that it couldn't get out again and was trapped so I had to rescue it. The same thing happened two days later. Then on the third day I arrived home to find a pigeon with it's wings tangled up the in the bars and completely stuck and helpless. We have a lot of cats in the area and I think it was very lucky to survive. Bizarrely as I was gently untangling it's wings it continued to feed! A good idea but no match for the pigeons of London! I don't want to risk using it again.

We bought this wide mesh cage to keep squirrels and wood pigeons off the food but to allow starlings and blackbirds in. We were dismayed on the second day to see a squirrel sitting inside eating all the food. It works as far as keeping pigeons and magpies and crows out but allows the blackbirds, in which has been necessary when we had the dry weather. However, the squirrel is still a problem.

I have had the narrow mesh cage for three years and have had no starlings in it. in spite of my garden having lots of them, I always have a little food out for them but the smaller birds have their own space in the cage.

I bought the narrow gauge fully expecting it to keep out starlings. Should have read the reviews instead of believing the RSPB blurb. Waste of money!

Now have one of each size. Both are wobbly but OK so far. Both exclude pigeons. Blackbirds etc were using the wide-meshed one within 5 mins. Starlings used smaller-meshed one in less time. Have flocks of pigeons and starlings (no sign of endangerment here!) among others. Smaller birds happily using both (when starlings don't mob them!) Also have hanging feeders.

We ordered the larger mesh, to allow entry for blackbirds, Thrushes etc, but we have a huge problem with feral Pigeons, somwetimes up to 30, just hoover any ground food up in seconds. Within minutes we were delighted to see a Robin happily inside feeding away. Ten minutes later, there were 4 Pigeons inside, they still manage to squeeze through the bars. I've had to tie some string, in a Zig-Zag fashion across the 2 lower levels of mesh, I'ts stopped all but one persistant little blighter, but the others still manage to get the heads 5-6 inches inside to get any spillage. So if it's a detterrent against pigeons you need, opt for the narrow mesh.

As per previous review I too bought the wide mesh version to cover the ground feeding table in the hope of curbing the squirrels and yet allowing the blackbird access to the feed. Sadly I find the squirrels are very adept at popping in and out of the mesh. They have been found sitting in the middle of the seed table on numerous occasions whereas the blackbirds have not entered through the mesh, although they have landed on it and walked round it staring longingly at the seed therein. On the plus side it has kept the wood pigeons,magpies and jays out, the dunnocks hop in and out at will and a robin has been seen within too. The tits are more interested in the hanging feeders of course. It will be interesting to see what happens when we are back to the higher garden feeding activity - we have a lull at this time of year - perhaps then the blackbird might try harder, although the mesh does seem a bit small as he hops round it.

I know this product is not guaranteed to keep the smallest squirrels out but within a day of erecting mine it was repeatedly raided by a squirrel - I believe an adult. I am very disappointed indeed - having invested over 20 pounds.

I bought the wide mesh ground protector, as the pigeons were eating all the food. It worked beautifully! Within a day the sparrows, blackbirds and starlings were hopping happily in and out, whereas the pigeons were left outside.

this guard was just perfect for me because I currently have a problem with pigeon. I would strongly recomend this to anyone with a problem with pigeon!!!

I think this is relly good if you like birds and want to keep them safe.

I loved the idea of this ground feeder; at first small birds, thrushes, blackbirds & starlings entered the wide mesh but VERY SOON the herring gulls & rooks found they could put their heads through the wide mesh and reach the ground feeder at the centre & pull it towards them, eating all the food! Even putting the food on the grass, they can access by sticking their heads through the bars. If the cage were a larger size that would certainly help but it is too SMALL. Can you design a larger one please that is beyond the scope of the large birds heads and neck?

I bought this product to stop the squirrels and pigeons eating all the food I put out. I've had this for three days and was happy to see the robins feeding inside it within an hour. However I should point out to any potential buyer that ordinary sized squirrels can get through the narrow mesh gaps, therefore making it nearly redundant.

I bought the large mesh version of this ground protector to allow blackbirds, thrushes and other smaller birds to feed, but not pigeons and magpies as they were eating me out of house and home! It took a while for the blackbirds to get used to it, but now they quite happily hop in and out again, while the pigeons just circle it, unsure how to get to the food. Smaller birds also fly in and out very nimbly and it's fun to watch them do this. Overall, would recommend if big bully birds are scoffing all your bird food before the others get a look in!

Received my wide mesh ground protector last week and am very pleased with it. Prevents those pesky wood and feral pigeons taking the food from the garden birds. The robins and dunnocks seem to have taken to it right away, while the blackbirds spent 2 or 3 days hopping round it, before they ventured in. Very small garden, not much visited by squirrels - and I would be happy to see some starlings in it again (famous last words)! Pigeons definitely excluded - but I'm not sure a particularly skinny collared dove couldn't enter. A very useful product - but perhaps not the most attractive!

Excellent product, but it really does need a 'roof', to protect the food from rain. I'm using a plastic bag at present, but a proper 'lid' would be a lot better.

Nothing against the guys but it's the feeding in hoards that's annoying. As soon as they found it they were able to get in and ALL the 'Peck & Mix' dried mealworms and raisins had gone within minutes. Can't continue with this - I'll be bankrupt. RSPB can I swap this for a 'really narrow mesh' exclusively for things less than the size of a Starling!? Alternatively what food doesn

It was purchased to keep squirrels off food left for ground feeders but squirrels can get in and out. Perhaps squirrels in north Cheshire are small. The first couple of times, it's amusing watching them get in and you can give them one hell of a fright if you run out while they are in. But they come back and scoff everything in their own private dining room so the birds don't get a look in at all. I don't use it any more. If food is on the ground the squirrels still scoff it but the birds have a chance.

We have one of these with the ground feeder table illustrated. Mostly it 'does what it says on the tin' and we enjoy watching all the birds it attracts but we have one rogue squirrel who constantly gets in through the small mesh - he also insists on gnawing at the wooden edging of the table and is slowly destroying it!

If the blackbirds are slow to learn, leave the top off the protector for a while. Soon they'll be in through the top, out through the side mesh and so on. Then close it and they're fine already, with the occasional hesitation. A Magpie and a Wood Pigeon did try going in through the top but were very nervous of the 'funnel' around them, so they won't gobble but keep an eye on it! Great success overall, give blackbirds a few days, other birds (robins, tits etc.) used it immediately.

bought this to keep greedy pigeons at bay and so far they're foxed! One can't quite grasp why the blackbirds get in and he couldn't and spent some time going round and round looking for the door! Even a Blue tit has paid a visit. The downside is that my seed bill has gone up!

This certainly did the trick to stop the jackdaws devouring all the food. Sadly the blackbirds are yet to find their way in and are very upset with me! Is there nothing to stop the starlings? even the narrow mesh doesn't stop them. Surely they will be overpopulating with all the food they are taking.

Much to our disappointment we have not been able to attract a single sparrow or other small bird into our feeder since receiving it 5 days ago. They continually feed from our nut feeders but decline sunflower hearts from the cage 7 table. The odd staerling manages to squeeze through and the pigeons try their utmost. All in all, something of a let dow.

I read reviews and they said that this kept the blackbirds out so was disappointed, but decided to go ahead as blackbirds could get into the bird house for food and other areas. I am pleased to report that male and female blackbirds get in without any problem at all. So good news

I bought this ground protector to stop pigeons and doves getting in. I was hoping the blackbirds could get in, I did look at the write up and most said that they could not. I am pleased to let everyone know male and female blackbirds can get in without any problems.

The protector certainly stops the Magpies and Pigeons but unfortunately doesn

HAVING BEEN PUT OFF A LITTLE FROM THE REVIEW THAT BLACKBIRDS CAN NOT FEED. I HAD TO TAKE THE CHANCE AS I NOW HAVE A MAGPIE EATING ALL THE FOOD. I WAS REALLY PLEASE HAVING JUST PUT THE MESH OUT OVER THE FOOD THAT A FEMALE BLACKBIRD WENT THROUGH THE MESH AND STARTED FEEDING.
I HOPE THIS REVIEW HELP'S.