Critter that is one clever and useful tip. I'll have to give that a try.

Jill,

what a neat idea!! I'll have to see how i can affix one to the feeder i have on a pole.

That is a good idea!
After reading of this solution I thought of another possibility. How about using one of those umbrella shaped shields you put over food served outdoors? They're made of a netting and, like I say, shaped like an umbrella. Hang is upside down to catch the shells and seeds.

$$ I guess you'd want to use a "used" one since they could be pricey just to catch seeds

That's a good idea too, Susie! As for pricey... I rummaged around & came up with the pizza pan after looking at "seed catchers" and "seed trays" specifically made for bird feeders... $$!