A critter-proof bird feed apparatus includes a critter deterrent barrier/deflector assembly that attaches to the top of a bird feeder and prevents critters from accessing the bird feeder when the combined apparatus is hung up. The critter deterrent barrier/deflector assembly includes a connecting cable having a first end attached to the bird feeder and a second end for attaching to a pole, bracket, or other support structure above. The critter deterrent barrier/deflector assembly includes a deflector plate that extends in a lateral/horizontal direction. The deflector plate has a larger width than the bird feeder and block a view of the bird feeder from above the deflector plate. The critter deterrent barrier/deflector assembly includes a plurality of inverted, overlapping cones extending above the deflector plate, and preventing a critter from gripping onto the cones.