Like Squirrels at the Birdfeeder

We’re having a war of sorts here at our house this winter.  Our beloved Westie pup was a squirrel and deer chaser extraordinaire for the last nine years.  He kept the squirrels out of the birdfeeder for the most part so the birds could graze at their leisure.  Now, mind you, there was plenty of leftover seed on the ground for the squirrels.  It’s not that they were left out, just relegated to their place.  Sadly, we lost our pup this fall. As all of you know who lose a pet you cherished- it’s like losing a piece of your heart.  We’re hurt, sad, bummed out, and now we can’t seem to keep the damn squirrels out of the birdfeeder!  One of the little varmints came up the back stairs and stared into the window as if to tell me, “now look lady, we’re going to give this our best shot whether you like it or not.”  He promptly jumped on the feeder and I ran and got some clippers and clipped the forsythia branch he leaped from.  Now the birds are back enjoying their Christmas Eve brunch in peace.  Will the squirrels be relegated to their place on the ground or will they find another branch and try again?  Am I causing angst to one species by trying to help another?  Alas,it’s all part of the human condition we all find ourselves in. I’m going out to fill the feeder now and I’m going to leave some extra seed on the ground because, after all it is Christmas.  Merry Christmas to all!