How to Make Wooden Bird Feeders with Weatherproof Features for Year-Round Use

How to Make Wooden Bird Feeders That'll Last All Year

Hey there, bird lovers! Want to attract a vibrant flock to your backyard, but tired of those flimsy plastic feeders that fall apart after a season? It's time to step up your game and build your very own wooden bird feeder. Not only are wooden feeders charming and rustic, but they're also built to withstand the elements, ensuring your feathered friends have a reliable source of food all year round. Let's dive into the world of DIY bird feeders, shall we?

Choosing the Right Wood

Before you start swinging that hammer, it's crucial to select the right wood for your feeder. You want something that's weather-resistant, durable, and won't rot or warp easily.

Top Choices for Weatherproof Wooden Bird Feeders:

• Cedar: Known for its natural oils that repel insects and decay, cedar is a fantastic choice for outdoor projects. Plus, it smells amazing!
• Redwood: Similar to cedar, redwood is naturally resistant to moisture and rot, making it a solid option for bird feeders.
• Pressure-Treated Pine: While not as naturally weather-resistant as cedar and redwood, pressure-treated pine is a budget-friendly option. Make sure it's labeled "ground contact" for maximum durability.
• Hardwoods like Oak or Maple: These hardwoods are strong and durable, but they require proper sealing to prevent moisture damage.

Planning Your Design: What Kind of Feeder Are You Making?

The sky's the limit when it comes to bird feeder designs. Consider what types of birds you want to attract and what kinds of seeds they prefer.

Popular Feeder Types:

• Hopper Feeders: These are classic feeders with a large compartment to hold seeds and a covered opening for birds to access. Hopper feeders are great for a variety of birds, including cardinals, chickadees, and finches.
• Platform Feeders: A simple platform with a raised rim provides a flat surface for birds to perch and feed. Platform feeders attract a diverse range of birds, especially ground-feeding species like doves, sparrows, and jays.
• Suet Feeders: Perfect for attracting woodpeckers and other insect-loving birds, suet feeders hold a high-energy block of fat that birds can peck at.
• Tube Feeders: These feeders feature a cylindrical tube with perches around the sides, often with multiple ports for birds to access seeds. Tube feeders are ideal for attracting smaller birds like finches and chickadees.

Gathering Your Materials and Tools

Once you've settled on a design, gather your materials and tools. You'll need a basic woodworking toolkit, including:

• Saw (circular, jigsaw, or handsaw)
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Clamps
• Sandpaper

For the feeder itself, you'll need:

• Wood (depending on your design)
• Screws (various lengths)
• Hardware cloth (for protecting the feeder from squirrels)
• Bird feeder mesh (for holding seeds)
• Weatherproof sealant
• Paint or stain (optional)

Construction Time: Building Your Wooden Bird Feeder

Here's a step-by-step guide for building a basic hopper bird feeder:

1. Cut the Wood: Using your saw, cut the wood to the desired dimensions based on your chosen design. The hopper needs a base, a top, sides, and a feeding tray.
2. Assemble the Base: Attach the sides to the base with screws, creating a box-like structure. Use wood glue for extra strength. Make sure the bottom is flat and stable.
3. Create the Feeding Tray: Cut a piece of wood to fit the opening of your hopper. This will act as the feeding tray. Attach it to the bottom of the opening, allowing birds to access seeds.
4. Install the Top: Attach the top to the sides, creating a lid to protect the seeds from rain.
5. Add Hardware Cloth: Cut a piece of hardware cloth slightly larger than the opening and attach it to the inside of the hopper. This will deter squirrels from raiding your feeder.
6. Install Bird Feeder Mesh: If you prefer, you can line the feeding tray with bird feeder mesh to help prevent seeds from falling out too quickly.
7. Create the Perches: Use dowel rods, branches, or small pieces of wood to create perches for the birds to land on. Attach them to the sides of the hopper. Make sure the perches are spaced appropriately for the types of birds you want to attract.
8. Seal the Feeder: Once the feeder is assembled, apply a weatherproof sealant to all surfaces. This will protect the wood from moisture and prolong the life of your feeder.
9. Paint or Stain: (Optional) You can paint or stain your feeder to enhance its appearance and match your backyard decor.
10. Hang the Feeder: Choose a location that offers shelter from the elements and is visible to birds. Hang the feeder using a strong rope, wire, or hook.

Additional Tips for Weatherproof Wooden Bird Feeders

Here are some additional tips to help your feeder last longer and keep your feathered friends happy:

• Use a Heavy-Duty Roof: If your design includes a roof, consider using a durable material like copper, galvanized metal, or even shingles.
• Add Drainage Holes: Drill small holes in the bottom of the hopper to allow any excess water to drain out, preventing moisture buildup.
• Consider a Feeding Tray Shield: For hopper feeders, you can add a shield around the feeding tray to further protect seeds from the elements.
• Clean Regularly: Keep your feeder clean by regularly emptying it and scrubbing away any bird droppings or debris. This will help prevent the spread of diseases and keep your feeder looking its best.
• Choose a Location with Good Visibility: Place your feeder in an open area where birds can see it easily and avoid obstacles.
• Offer a Variety of Food: Birds have different preferences, so offer a variety of seeds, suet, and other treats to attract a diverse range of feathered friends.
• Enjoy Your Birdwatching!: Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy watching a flurry of birds visit your beautiful, handcrafted bird feeder.

Commonly Asked Questions

Let's tackle some questions that often pop up when building wooden bird feeders:

Can I Use Recycled Wood?

Absolutely! Just be sure it's clean, dry, and free of any chemicals or harmful substances that could harm the birds. Use wood from old pallets, furniture, or even salvaged lumber from construction sites.

Should I Use Bird Feeder Mesh or Hardware Cloth?

Hardware cloth is a stronger deterrent against squirrels, but it may also make it more difficult for smaller birds to access the seeds. Bird feeder mesh is more bird-friendly, but it may not be as effective against squirrels. You can use both to create a layered protection system!

How Often Should I Clean My Feeder?

Aim to clean your feeder at least once a month, especially during the spring and summer when birds are more active. You can clean it more often if needed. Use a mild soap and water solution, and avoid using harsh chemicals.

Ready to get started? Grab your tools, gather your materials, and let's create a beautiful and functional wooden bird feeder that will attract birds to your backyard for years to come. Happy building, and happy birding!