Bird feeders are a great addition to any yard, providing an easy and fun way to enjoy watching birds in your outdoor space. While there are plenty of bird feeders available for purchase, building your own can be a fun and rewarding project for any woodworking enthusiast. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to build a bird feeder from scratch.
Materials Needed
- Cedar Wood Boards (1”x 6”x 6’)
- Wood Screws
- Roofing Material
- Squirrel-Proof Wire Mesh
- Hanger
- Bird Seed
Tools Needed
- Saw
- Drill
- Screws
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
Step 1: Cut the Wood
Begin by cutting your cedar wood boards into four pieces: two at 8 inches, one at 12 inches, and one at 16 inches. These will be the sides and roof of your bird feeder.
Step 2: Assemble the Sides
Lay the two 8-inch boards flat on a work surface, and position the 12-inch board between them vertically. Use screws to attach the sides to the vertical board. Repeat this process with the other two sides.
Step 3: Attach the Roof
Place the two side panels on a flat surface, and attach the 16-inch board across the top to form the roof. Make sure that the edges of the roof panel overhang each side by about an inch.
Step 4: Add the Wire Mesh
Cut a piece of squirrel-proof wire mesh to the size of the base of the bird feeder. Attach the mesh to the bottom of the feeder with screws.
Step 5: Create an Opening
Drill a hole in the center of the roof panel, large enough to accommodate a bird. Make sure that the hole is large enough for the birds you want to attract but small enough to keep out larger animals like squirrels.
Step 6: Install the Hanger
Attach a hanger to the top of the roof panel, making sure that it is securely fastened.
Step 7: Install the Roofing Material
Cut a piece of roofing material to the size of the roof panel. Attach the roofing material to the top of the roof panel with screws.
Step 8: Fill the Feeder with Seed
Once your bird feeder is complete, fill it with your choice of bird seed. You can also add a small tray at the bottom of the feeder to catch any excess seed.
Final Thoughts
Building a bird feeder is a fun and rewarding project that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps outlined above and using quality materials, you can create a beautiful and functional bird feeder that will provide hours of enjoyment for you and your family. Remember to keep the feeder clean and filled with fresh seed to keep the birds coming back year after year.