On my deck, I have a large planter and a few pots, which I am putting to use this winter as squirrel and bird feeders. I like to provide food sources for ground-feeding birds and for squirrels, which, when properly diverted, leave my other feeders alone.
In addition to black oil sunflower seed, that universally beloved bird food, I have added a wildlife block, and a mix called “Critter Cuisine” that contains various seeds with corn, pumpkin seeds and peanuts in the shell. Here’s a close-up of the mix: (Notice the peanuts are gone. They’re always gobbled up first.)
So far, my deck container method has worked out very well. The food stays off the wet ground, I can get to the planters easily to refill them, and – bonus – the squirrels provide live entertainment for the dog, who watches, transfixed, from the kitchen.
Here’s the wildlife block. It lasts for weeks and everyone loves it. I added some tree branches for perching and shelter.
In the spring I will dump out the soil in the planters anyway, so I don’t care if there are seeds in it.
Digging RI 
I so enjoy feeding the birds and squirrels at this time of year They’re coming in droves today prior to the big blizzard which has been predicted. Great idea to put some of the seeds etc. in pots and probably much neater than throwing it on the deck for the birds who like to feed away from the feeder! My squirrels are very spoiled; their favorite treat is graham crackers which I buy on sale just for them. Two days ago I forgot to put some out at breakfast time and heard tiny feet scratching at the French doors; it was Mr. Squirrel peering through the class and tapping to get my attention. Too cute!:)
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You are a squirrel hero! And here I thought mine were so lucky getting seeds nuts and corn.
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I think I told you before that these little guys are also hand fed. We always know when progeny has been born as they are brought to the deck too!
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So cute and trusting.
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