Whether as a gift or for personal use, a bird feeder can make for a rather pleasant addition to any backyard. It is also a fairly easy DIY project to complete even with basic woodworking skills. Here’s how:
1. Materials
The bird feeder you are about to make will be a platform type attached to a pole. To make one, you will need the following:
1 wooden board at 30 by 12 inches.
1 wooden pole at 7 feet of 1 by 1 inches.
Nails or galvanized screws.
1 pipe flange with a 1 inch hole.
1 Galvanized pipe that is threaded on one end and at 6 to 8 feet with a width of 1 inch.
You also have the option to change the measurements to fit the layout of your backyard. However, make sure that you provide support at the bottom if your platform is wider than what was recommended.
A larger platform area allows for more seeds and birds to stand on it. This could potentially lead to the platform toppling over if there is no proper support at the bottom.
2. Building
To start things off, you must cut the platform feeder base into a rectangular or square shape. Next, you will cut 4 1-inch wide trim pieces and nail them at the top of the sides of the platform. This will hold all the bird seed in place. You also have the option of applying wood glue at the sides of the trim pieces for extra security.
Once the feeder is complete, you can then add your finishing touches. Soften the hard edges of the platform with fine grit sandpaper and apply weather-resistant coat.
If you have to paint the feeder, aim for a neutral color that mimics stone or wood. Birds are naturally wary of bright colors and would avoid your feeder if it is painted with colors like sky blue or crimson.
Next, you will fasten the pipe flange at the center of the bottom part of the platform and keep it in place with the galvanized screws. This will serve as the connecting point between the platform and the pole.
3. Assembly
Prior to setting up the feeder, you should consider the type of ground where the pole will be mounted on. If the ground is too soft or sandy, you will have to stick the pole deeper and secure it in place with rocks or a dedicated wooden base.
Also consider if the lawn has nearby trees and shrubs. Placing the feeder beside a large tree allows it to get the attention of nearby birds while also protecting it from the winds and the sun.
Alternatively, if the lawn is quite open, have the pole mounted within 3 meters of the house and in front of a window. This will protect the feeder from any strong winds while allowing onlookers to watch the birds without disturbing them.
Once the pole is secured, all that is left is to screw the feeder to it. Of course, that feeder should always be filled with bird seed so it fulfills its purpose.
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