That would be wonderful Twitcher. ;) I'm not so lucky as to see robins as often as you. Two years ago a huge flock came in and stayed around for about a week. It was so nice to see them again after all these years. We fed and watered them during their brief visit. then they went further south.
I too, have been trying for years to set up edible landscaping. Still working on it. Have you thought of buying some lesser expensive plants that also attract the birds with their fruit? That may save your precious Eleagnus from attack.
I have to deal with the squirrels. But I also plant enough to share with them. I grow many varieties of passion fruit (well, Gino does) and rabbiteye blueberries, raspberries. I guess it's just an attitude. I have enough for everyone, including the
squirrels. I think the poor things would starve and go thirsty without the extra plants and water we put out for them come winter. (It turns very dry here come October)
Adopt the alley cat. That's a great idea. I have a little cat that I only let outside for 3 hours each morning. She keeps the squirrels up the trees while I work in my garden. (I honestly don't like that, she also chases away the beautiful woodpeckers we intentionally feed) but in your case, I can see the alley cat being helpful.
Have you thought about a regular screened enclosure? You would have saved tons of money. Build it yourself. We just bought 21 yard grade posts from Lowes. (8 ft.) Cost about 80.00
Then I bought a 100 ft roll of screen thats 6 ft x 100 ft, for only 40.00 on Craigslist. 4 or 5 2 x 4's to make a door, and hinges, latch. The entire project will cost us about 135.00.
I'll end up with a 6 ft tall, 16 x 16 screened in garden for just some free labor from husband and I. We have insect issues. It would work for your bird problem, and save you a lot of grief....and money! When Gino is finished building it, I'll post some pictures.
I can also post you the link to kid selling screen rolls for 40.00 You'd have to ship, but those rolls are 97.00 at lowes. Good deal
