How to Make a Bird Feeder

Want to see more birds in your yard? It's easier than you think! One of the best ways is to put up a bird feeder. It's a fun DIY project. You can learn how to build a bird feeder and help out your local backyard wildlife at the same time!

Why Build Your Own Bird Feeder?

Why make your own bird feeder? Good question! Here’s why it's a great idea:

• Save Money: Bird feeders can cost a lot. You can save money by using stuff you already have.
• Make it Your Own: Want a specific look? Build it yourself! You decide what it looks like.
• Learn Something New: It's a great way to learn about birds and nature. Kids love it too!
• Help the Planet: Use old materials. Reduce waste. Good for the environment.
• Feel Good: Making something yourself feels great!

Choosing the Right Design

So, how to build bird feeder? First, pick a design! Lots of choices. Here are some popular ones:

Platform Feeders

These are just simple trays. Easy to build. Lots of birds will visit. The downside? Rain and snow can ruin the seeds.

Hopper Feeders

These are like little houses for birds. They protect the seeds from the weather. Great for smaller birds.

Tube Feeders

These are clear tubes with holes. Perfect for small seeds. Finches love them! They also keep out bigger birds and squirrels.

Suet Feeders

These hold suet cakes. Suet is high-energy food. Birds need it in the winter. Woodpeckers and nuthatches love them.

Nectar Feeders

These are for hummingbirds. They hold sugar water. Usually brightly colored. Only hummingbirds can use them.

Materials You’ll Need

What you need depends on the feeder you build. But here's a basic list:

• Wood: Old wood, plywood, anything works!
• Screws and Nails: To hold it all together.
• Wire Mesh: For suet feeders or to keep out squirrels.
• Plastic or Glass Bottles: To make tube feeders.
• Twine or Wire: To hang it up.
• Tools: Saw, drill, hammer, etc. And don't forget your safety glasses!
• Paint or Stain (Optional): To make it look nice and protect the wood. Important: Make sure it's safe for birds!

Step-by-Step Guide: Building a Simple Platform Feeder

Let's start easy. A platform feeder is a great first project.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• Four pieces of wood for the base (about 12 inches long).
• Four pieces of wood for the sides (about 2 inches high).
• Screws or nails.
• Drill or hammer.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

Make a square or rectangle with the base pieces. Screw or nail them together. Make sure it's strong!

Step 3: Add the Sides

Attach the side pieces to the base. This keeps the seeds from falling out. Use screws or nails.

Step 4: Drill Drainage Holes

Make a few small holes in the bottom. This lets rainwater drain out. Keeps the seeds dry.

Step 5: Add a Hanging Mechanism

Drill holes in the corners. Attach twine or wire. Make sure it's strong enough to hold the feeder and the seeds.

Step 6: Finish and Hang

Paint or stain it if you want. Important: Use bird-safe stuff! Let it dry. Then, hang it up and add seeds!

Building a Hopper Feeder

A little harder, but worth it! Hopper feeders protect the seeds better.

Step 1: Cut the Wood

Cut the wood to the size you want. Base, sides, roof, and a place for the seeds.

Step 2: Assemble the Base and Sides

Make a box shape with the base and sides. Screws or nails are your friend.

Step 3: Create the Seed Reservoir

Make a sloped bottom inside the box. This helps the seeds fall to the feeding area. Use angled pieces of wood.

Step 4: Add the Roof

Attach the roof. Make it overhang a little. This protects the seeds from rain. You can even hinge the roof so it is easy to refill.

Step 5: Add the Feeding Tray

Make a small tray at the bottom. This is where the birds eat. Just a simple platform attached to the sides.

Step 6: Finish and Hang

Sand any rough spots. Add a bird-safe finish if you like. Hang it up and wait for the birds!

Using Recycled Materials: DIY Bird Feeder Ideas

The cool part about how to build bird feeder is using old stuff! Check these out:

Plastic Bottle Bird Feeder

Cut holes in a plastic bottle. Stick spoons or sticks in the holes for birds to stand on. Fill with seeds. Hang it upside down to refill.

Tin Can Bird Feeder

Decorate a tin can. Cut holes for perches. Hang it with wire. Easy and cute!

Teacup Bird Feeder

Glue a teacup to a saucer. Attach a chain. Hang it up. Fancy!

Orange Peel Bird Feeder

Dry out orange peels. Poke holes for twine. Fill with seeds. Smells good and it's biodegradable!

Choosing the Right Bird Seed

Different seeds attract different birds. Here are some popular ones:

• Sunflower Seeds: Almost all birds love these! Cardinals, finches, chickadees...
• Nyjer Seeds: Finches go crazy for these. Especially goldfinches.
• White Millet: Ground-feeding birds like doves and sparrows.
• Cracked Corn: Good for bigger birds like jays and crows.
• Suet: High-energy food. Woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees need it.

Placement and Maintenance

Where you put the feeder matters! Think about this:

• Easy to See: Birds need to see it.
• Safe: Near trees or bushes. So they can hide from predators.
• Easy to Reach: So you can refill and clean it easily.
• Away from Windows: Or very close to windows. This stops birds from flying into them.

Clean the feeder often! At least once a month. More when it's wet. Use soap and water. Get rid of old seeds. Check for damage.

Attracting More Backyard Wildlife

More than just bird feeders! Here's how to attract backyard wildlife:

• Water: A bird bath or small pond.
• Native Plants: They give food and shelter.
• Shelter: Brush piles or small shelters.
• No Pesticides: They hurt birds and other animals.

Enjoying Bird Watching

Bird feeder is up? Time to watch! Get binoculars and a bird guide. Write down what you see. Join a bird watching group. It's fun!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Stuff happens. Here are some problems you might face:

• Squirrels: They're persistent! Use squirrel-proof feeders or baffles.
• Pests: Bugs in the seeds. Keep seeds in airtight containers. Clean feeders often.
• Disease: Dirty feeders spread disease. Clean them regularly. Remove any sick birds.

Conclusion

How to build a bird feeder? It's a great DIY project. It connects you with nature. It helps backyard wildlife. Follow these steps. Get creative. Start building! You'll have a beautiful bird feeder. Birds will love it.

Be patient! It might take a while for birds to find it. But once they do, you'll love watching them. Happy bird watching!