Is bird seed with capsaicin toxic to bees? - Ask Extension
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...
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>