Making a Wooden Bird Feeder
If you have a garden, chances are you have many different species of birds visiting so if you don't already have a bird feeder from which they can eat, you may want to include one in your garden. These structures not only offer seeds to wild birds, they protect the birds from any predatory animals that might be stalking your garden. As a fun weekend project where you can include family members, particularly your kids, you can build your own wooden bird feeder.
Making a bird feeder is not as difficult as you may think. You only need some pieces of wood, a trusty hammer, saw, screwdriver, nails and screws. It is a good idea to create a layout of your bird feeder construction plan prior to the actual building. After all, you want to be able to have a good idea of where and how to start, and a design on paper is a good guide by which to do the actual construction. Draw exactly how to envision the feeder to look. Go into your garden and take a look around to decide on a possible spot on a tree branch on which to eventually hang the future bird feeder. Take any measurements needed so that you know what size materials you will need.
Make sure to choose a good, sturdy and weatherproof type of wood. Cedar and plywood are both good choices and are easy to work with. You need at least a basic knowledge of construction to create the roof of the feeder, as you will have to fit two pieces of wood that you cut with your saw at an angle, creating a sloped roof. A sander may be necessary in order to smooth out your cuts, so have one handy in addition to all your other tools. Or if you want to go with a very basic design, make a flat roof. This is a lot easier to construct, as all you need is a single piece of wood to nail on top of three other wood pieces. You can decide whether or not to have a back for the feeder, as keeping that portion open can give access to more birds at a time to feast on the seeds at the bottom.
One thing to keep in mind is that treated wood will last longer than those that are not treated. However, be aware of placing a bird feeder made from treated wood on cutting boards, countertops or beehives. Also, if you want to add a splash of color to the bird feeder, consider painting it. Choose a bright and cheery color that you think will attract your outdoor feathered friends.
Always ensure that when you are constructing a bird feeder, all the pieces fit snugly enough together. The structure can be built in a very basic fashion, but make sure it's secure enough and not flimsy. Any birds feeding on it if it should happen to suddenly fall apart may very well avoid it, even after you make repairs to keep it permanently intact.
If you are satisfied and positive that your bird feeder is good to go, hang it outside on a tree branch by way of a piece of wire or small rope. Fill it up with wild bird food, sit back and watch your avian friends enjoy their meal!
