I thought maybe this thing would scare away the squirrels that are eating acorns and making a serious mess in the backyard, notsomuch. Rather than go through a lengthy process mounting Owl I just stood him on the porch overlooking the area in question, by mid-day he was face down in the yard and 5 feet away was mister squirrel going about his business as if to mock me. I didn't want to resort to violence but none of these gimmicks ever work, shame on me for trying this.... more shame on you if you don't heed the warning.By the way I gave it 2 stars because my 2 year old grand daughter loves the thing, maybe I'll teach her how to throw it at squirrels.