Too Great a Temptation

Whatever delusions I had that the Fall "Squirrel Truce" would last are pretty much gone. To be sure there is one alpha squirrel who defends the deck level platform feeder with gusto (I have watched this character chase off any other squirrel who gets too close,) but working against me are three unpleasant facts. First, there are now at least four animals visiting the feeder station. And second, the alpha squirrel is not inclined to defend all the feeders. And third, the new temptations are considerable. I think tree rats can smell peanut butter at the distance of hundreds of yards. And this joker not only found the peanut butter with ease but can handle the puny obstacles between it and the product. I am assessing the situation. On the plus side, the photo evidence is that the squirrels were not on this feeder too many times. But they can get a good amount of the product in those visits. Is this an acceptable cost of doing business? Or can I find a way to discourage these animals? Lots to think about...