Knowledgebase

Is bird seed with capsaicin toxic to bees? #778259

Asked November 23, 2021, 7:57 AM EST

Am I hurting the bees by putting capsaicin in my bird seed? I’ve never seen bees near my feeders  and have a fountain and a perennial flower garden in another area that the bees visit.  I was accused of being mean and cruel to the squirrels and killing the bees in a forum when I answered a question about squirrel deterrents. I definitely don’t want to hurt the bees since they are so important to our ecosystem. 

Warren County Kentucky

Expert Response

Here is a great resource from Oregon State. Capsaicin is a great wildlife deterrent but, is toxic to bees. http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/capgen.html


If you have more questions, please all the Warren County Extension Office.<personal data hidden>

An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 23, 2021, 10:39 AM EST

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