Critter-proof bird feeder apparatus

A critter-proof bird feed apparatus comprising:

• a bird feeder having:
• (i) a hollow volumetric container within which feed can be placed for dispensing, the volumetric container having an exterior wall with one or more dispensing apertures presented therein;
• (ii) a base plate that extends to allow one or more birds to perch thereon, the base plate or tray providing a surface for dispersing the feed from the one or more apertures;
• and (iii) a removable cover for exposing a hollow interior of the bird feeder to enable insertion of the feed and to securely attach to a top of the volumetric container to protect the feed from exposure to rain and other environmental elements, and from access from the top of the volumetric container;
• and
• a connecting cable extending vertically above the bird feeder, with a first end, proximate to and attached to a top of the bird feeder and a second end for attaching to a pole, bracket, or other support structure immediately above the bird feeder assembly;
• and
• a critter barrier/deflector assembly extending along a portion of the connecting cable between the top of the bird feeder and the second end of the connecting cable, the critter barrier/deflector comprising a deflector plate that extends perpendicular to the top surface of the bird feeder housing assembly, the deflector plate having a larger circumference/width than and extending laterally past an exterior edge of the bird feeder in each lateral direction, the deflector plate blocking a view of the bird feeder from a position above the deflector plate and preventing critters from being able to gain access to the base plate and the feed within the bird feeder.