Build a Backyard Bird Haven: Easy DIY Bird Feeder

Updated at: 30/01/2025

Attract a vibrant array of feathered friends to your backyard and transform your outdoor space into a lively bird sanctuary! Building a DIY bird feeder is a rewarding project that connects you with nature, provides hours of entertainment watching birds, and is surprisingly simple to accomplish. It's a wonderful way to contribute to local bird populations, offering a vital food source, especially during harsh weather conditions or lean feeding seasons. You'll be amazed at the variety of birds that will visit your backyard once you provide a reliable food source.

Creating your own bird feeder not only saves money compared to store-bought options but allows for complete customization to suit your preferences and the specific needs of the birds in your area. From simple designs utilizing recycled materials to more elaborate creations, the possibilities are endless. Ready to start building your own backyard bird paradise? Let's dive into the easy, step-by-step guide below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Cedar picket
  • Dowel rod
  • Exterior wood glue
  • Small exterior finish nails or wood screws
  • Drill and drill bits
  • Hammer and/or screwdriver
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Saw
  • Framing square
  • Safety equipment
Safety Guidelines
  • Prevent bird feeder contamination: Regularly clean your feeder with soap and water to avoid the spread of disease. Allow it to dry completely before refilling.
  • Secure your feeder: Hang your feeder securely to prevent it from falling and injuring birds or breaking. Consider using strong wire or sturdy hooks.
  • Choose appropriate seed: Avoid using seeds treated with pesticides or chemicals that could harm the birds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare and Cut Materials

    • Cut the floor, sides, roof, and tray sides from the cedar picket using a saw (compound miter saw recommended but hand saw works too).
    Cut the floor, sides, roof, and tray sides from the cedar picket using a saw (compound miter saw recommended but hand saw works too).
    Prepare and Cut Materials

  2. Assemble the Feeder Base

    • Attach the two sides to the floor using glue and nails or screws.
    • Attach the narrow roof piece, followed by the wider roof piece.
    Attach the narrow roof piece, followed by the wider roof piece.Attach the narrow roof piece, followed by the wider roof piece.
    Assemble the Feeder Base

  3. Add Finishing Touches

    • Attach a cedar strip along each side of the feeder.
    Attach a cedar strip along each side of the feeder.
    Add Finishing Touches

  4. Install Perches

    • Drill a hole in the center of each side, just below where the roof begins to angle (approximately 4.5 inches from the bottom).
    • Drill a small hole about an inch below each large hole for the perch.
    • Apply wood glue and tap the dowel rod (perch) into the smaller holes. Wipe away excess glue.
    Apply wood glue and tap the dowel rod (perch) into the smaller holes. Wipe away excess glue.Apply wood glue and tap the dowel rod (perch) into the smaller holes. Wipe away excess glue.
    Install Perches

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Tips

  • Use cedar wood because it's rot-resistant and doesn't contain chemicals harmful to birds.
  • Consider the advantages of different feeder types (tray, house, window, tube) and choose a mix to create the best birding experience.
  • Place the feeder where you can easily watch the birds, but also consider their needs: less human activity, near natural shelter (trees, shrubs), away from chemical sprays, and away from windows.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Placing the feeder in an unsafe location

Reason: Predators like cats can easily ambush birds from nearby bushes or trees.
Solution: Relocate the feeder to an open area, at least 5-10 feet away from cover.

2. Using the wrong type of birdseed

Reason: Incorrect seed attracts unwanted pests like squirrels or doesn't appeal to the birds you want to attract.
Solution: Choose a seed blend specifically designed for the types of birds you want to visit your feeder.

3. Not cleaning the feeder regularly

Reason: Old, moldy food and droppings can spread diseases among birds.
Solution: Clean the feeder thoroughly with soap and water at least once a month, or more often in hot weather.

FAQs

What kind of birdseed should I use?
Use a mix of seeds catering to various birds in your area. Sunflower seeds are a popular choice, as are niger seeds for finches, and cracked corn for larger birds. Avoid using seeds treated with pesticides.
How do I keep squirrels from eating all the birdseed?
There are several ways! You can use a squirrel-resistant feeder with cages or baffles that prevent squirrels from reaching the seed. You can also add a smooth metal pole, making it difficult for them to climb.
Where is the best location to place my bird feeder?
Place your feeder at least 4-5 feet from any trees or bushes to prevent cats or other predators from ambushing birds. Ensure it's in a location sheltered from strong winds and rain, and visible from a window for easy viewing.