An animal guard appliance for bird feeder poles comprised of a hollow cylindrical plastic base. Outwardly projecting tacks protrude from the base. The base is secured to the pole by self-threading screws. The tacks are secured to the base by piercing them through flexible vinyl, which is glued to the exterior of base. The majority of the base is covered with tacks preventing animals from climbing over it. The animal guard is especially effective in keeping squirrels from climbing feeder poles.