How to Make a Bird Feeder

Want to bring the joy of birdwatching to your backyard? Building a DIY bird feeder is a fun and rewarding project that can attract a diverse array of feathered friends. Not only is it a great way to enjoy nature up close, but it also provides a valuable food source for birds, especially during colder months.

Why Build a Bird Feeder?

There are numerous benefits to building and using a bird feeder:

• Attract Beautiful Birds: Bird feeders can attract a wide variety of bird species to your garden, adding vibrancy and beauty to your outdoor space.
• Enjoy Birdwatching: Watching birds feed and interact is a relaxing and enjoyable hobby. You can learn about different bird species and their behaviors.
• Support Wildlife: Bird feeders provide a supplemental food source for birds, especially during harsh weather conditions or when natural food sources are scarce.
• Connect with Nature: Bird feeders can bring you closer to nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.
• Fun DIY Project: Building a bird feeder is a rewarding project that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Choosing the Right Bird Feeder Design

Before you start building, consider the types of birds you want to attract and your desired aesthetics. Here are some popular bird feeder designs:

1. Platform Feeder

• Description: A simple, open platform that provides a flat surface for birds to perch and feed.
• Best for: Ground-feeding birds like doves, sparrows, and juncos.
• Pros: Easy to build, accommodates various bird species, and allows for multiple birds to feed simultaneously.
• Cons: May attract squirrels and other unwanted animals, can be prone to spillage.

2. Hopper Feeder

• Description: A hopper-shaped feeder with a covered container that dispenses seed through a small opening.
• Best for: Small songbirds like cardinals, chickadees, and finches.
• Pros: Protects food from rain and snow, reduces seed waste, can be refilled easily.
• Cons: Can be challenging to build for beginners.

3. Tube Feeder

• Description: A tube-shaped feeder with perches around the outside and a seed reservoir inside.
• Best for: Small songbirds like hummingbirds, woodpeckers, and nuthatches.
• Pros: Protects food from rain and snow, prevents spillage, attractive design.
• Cons: Limited space for larger birds, can be difficult to clean.

4. Suet Feeder

• Description: A feeder designed to hold suet, a high-energy food made from rendered animal fat.
• Best for: Woodpeckers, chickadees, and nuthatches.
• Pros: Provides a high-energy food source for birds, attracts a variety of species.
• Cons: Can attract squirrels, may melt in warm weather.

DIY Bird Feeder Plans

Once you've chosen your preferred design, it's time to gather your materials and follow these simple steps:

1. Platform Feeder

Materials:

• Wood board (12 inches x 12 inches)
• Wood dowel or branch (for perches)
• Screws or nails
• Wood glue
• Weatherproof paint or stain (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the wood board to your desired size.
2. Drill holes or create notches around the edges of the board for the perches.
3. Secure the perches using screws, nails, or wood glue.
4. Paint or stain the feeder for added durability and aesthetics (optional).
5. Place the feeder in a sheltered location, away from predators and overhanging branches.

2. Hopper Feeder

Materials:

• Plastic container or jar
• Wood board (for the base)
• Metal wire or dowels (for the frame)
• Screws or nails
• Mesh or wire mesh (for the feeding area)
• Weatherproof paint or stain (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the wood board to your desired size for the base.
2. Construct a frame using metal wire or dowels, leaving a gap at the bottom for the feeding area.
3. Attach the mesh or wire mesh to the frame.
4. Secure the plastic container or jar upside down inside the frame, with the opening facing down.
5. Paint or stain the feeder for added durability and aesthetics (optional).
6. Place the feeder in a sheltered location, away from predators and overhanging branches.

3. Tube Feeder

Materials:

• Plastic or glass tube
• Wood or metal base
• Perch supports (metal rods or wood dowels)
• Screws or nails
• Weatherproof paint or stain (optional)

Instructions:

1. Secure the perch supports to the base using screws or nails.
2. Attach the tube to the base using screws or nails.
3. Drill holes on the sides of the tube for seed dispensers or create an opening at the top.
4. Paint or stain the feeder for added durability and aesthetics (optional).
5. Place the feeder in a sheltered location, away from predators and overhanging branches.

4. Suet Feeder

Materials:

• Wire mesh (metal or plastic)
• Wood or metal base
• Screws or nails
• Suet cake
• Weatherproof paint or stain (optional)

Instructions:

1. Shape the wire mesh into a cage or cylinder.
2. Attach the cage or cylinder to the base using screws or nails.
3. Place the suet cake inside the cage.
4. Paint or stain the feeder for added durability and aesthetics (optional).
5. Place the feeder in a sheltered location, away from predators and overhanging branches.

Tips for Building a Successful Bird Feeder

• Use high-quality materials: Choose weatherproof materials that will withstand outdoor elements and last for years to come.
• Ensure proper drainage: Prevent food from rotting by ensuring the feeder has adequate drainage to remove excess water.
• Consider feeder placement: Place the feeder in a sheltered location, away from predators and overhanging branches. Avoid areas with dense vegetation that could attract insects.
• Clean regularly: Clean the feeder regularly to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain a healthy environment for the birds.
• Offer a variety of foods: Provide a variety of bird seeds, suet, and other food sources to attract a wider range of bird species.
• Observe and adjust: Observe the birds that visit your feeder and adjust the type of food or feeder design as needed.

Enjoy Your DIY Bird Feeder

Building a DIY bird feeder is a fun, rewarding, and educational experience. By following these plans and tips, you can attract a diverse range of birds to your backyard and enjoy the beauty of birdwatching. Happy birdwatching!