Extra heavy seeding is often recommended - in the hopes they won't get them all. But a simple low tent of chicken wire over the area until after germination works best IME. Looks like &%$(^ but it works. If they can't get to soil they can't eat the seeds.

See pics linked below for ideas.

Dave

Here is a link that might be useful: Using chicken wire to protect seeds and seedlings

Thx for the guide Dave. Don't think a full metal jacket will work for me, but I'll keep poking round looking for inspiration.

you can selectively cover some areas with plastic perforated trays turned upsidedown. you can secure them with stakes. people do that to protect their bulbs. just watch that plants don't grow right thru them.
smth like in the pic.

Here is a link that might be useful: plastic perforated tray

Good idea - I've also thought about using some strong metal fencing laid directly on the soil and staked down.

In my little yard, the squirrels tear up any freshly turned soil. There doesn't have to be anything there for them, they just seem compelled. I have to protect newly seeded spots with some barrier. Onion bags work for a small spot. In flower pots I use gravel or river stone on the surface.

Petrushka - I think your idea may work best, should help discourage birds as well. I'll give it a try - and hang on to the trays to cover my bulbs when I plant this Fall/Spring. Thanks.

davek - same here. I was afraid of turning into my grandfather, sitting on my deck with a BB gun, potting squirrels.