Building a wooden bird feeder with a squirrel guard is a practical and enjoyable woodworking project that provides a safe space for birds to feed while keeping pesky squirrels at bay. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing bird feeder with a built-in squirrel guard. This project is ideal for both novice and seasoned woodworkers.
Materials Needed:
- Wood: Cedar, pine, or any other weather-resistant wood (approx. 1” thick).
- Screws: 1 ¼” screws for assembly.
- Wood Glue: For securing pieces together.
- Hinges: For the roof if you want it to open for refilling.
- Bird Feeder Tube: Optional for seed dispensing.
- Squirrel Guard Materials: A metal baffle, PVC pipe, or other squirrel-proof materials.
- Paint or Wood Sealant: To protect the wood from the elements.
- Tools: Saw, drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, wood clamps, sandpaper.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Designing Your Bird Feeder
Begin by deciding the type of bird feeder you want to create. There are several designs you can choose from:
- Tray-style feeder: A simple platform with no walls.
- House-style feeder: A fully enclosed structure with a roof and open sides.
- Tube feeder: A cylindrical design with feeding holes. For this project, we’ll focus on a classic house-style bird feeder with a squirrel guard.
2. Preparing the Wood
Using your saw, cut the following pieces for the base of your bird feeder:
- Base: One square piece of wood approximately 12” x 12”.
- Four sides: Cut four pieces of wood to form the walls. The dimensions for these should be 12” long, with the height of the sides being 10”.
- Roof: Cut two triangular pieces for the roof (approximately 12” wide and 8” tall at the highest point).
- Feeder Tube (optional): If using a tube, ensure it’s long enough to hold seeds and can be mounted within the base structure.
3. Assembling the Base and Walls
Start by attaching the four side pieces to the base. Use wood glue and screws to secure each side to the base. Drill pilot holes for the screws to avoid splitting the wood. Once the walls are attached, check for sturdiness and ensure that all sides are aligned correctly.
4. Attaching the Roof
Next, attach the roof pieces. You can either screw the roof pieces directly onto the walls or use hinges if you want the roof to open for easy refilling. For a simple roof, place the triangular pieces on top of the walls and screw them in place, ensuring the peak of the roof is aligned properly.
5. Squirrel Guard Installation
The key feature of this bird feeder is the squirrel guard, which will prevent squirrels from accessing the seeds. You can make a baffle using a few materials:
- PVC Pipe: A large PVC pipe can be attached below the feeder to act as a barrier. Cut the pipe in half vertically, then mount it underneath the base using brackets. The smooth, slippery surface of the PVC will prevent squirrels from climbing up.
- Metal Baffle: Purchase a pre-made squirrel baffle from a hardware store or create your own by cutting a metal sheet into a wide, circular shape. Attach it beneath the feeder to prevent squirrels from climbing up and reaching the food.
- Pole with Squirrel Guard: If you are mounting your bird feeder on a pole, ensure the pole is smooth and tall enough to prevent squirrels from jumping to the feeder. You can also add a baffle or cover to the pole itself.
6. Finishing Touches
Once the feeder and squirrel guard are assembled, sand all the edges and surfaces to remove any rough spots. This will help protect the birds from injury and give your feeder a professional finish. Apply a coat of outdoor paint or wood sealant to protect the wood from the weather and ensure it lasts longer.
If you have a tube feeder, install it in the center of the base and create feeding holes around it. Make sure the holes are wide enough for birds but small enough to keep larger animals out.
7. Mounting the Bird Feeder
Now that your bird feeder is complete, it’s time to mount it. If you’re using a pole, attach the feeder to a sturdy post using screws or brackets. For hanging feeders, use strong ropes or chains to suspend the feeder from a tree branch. Ensure that the feeder is positioned at least 6 feet off the ground to make it harder for squirrels to jump onto it.
8. Adding Bird Food
Fill your bird feeder with your preferred birdseed. Choose a mix that attracts the types of birds you want to feed. Common seeds for attracting various bird species include sunflower seeds, millet, and thistle seed.
Tips for Success:
- Squirrel-Proofing: To further deter squirrels, ensure that the pole or structure holding the feeder is smooth and free from ledges or rough surfaces that squirrels can grip.
- Placement: Place the feeder in a quiet, calm area where birds are less likely to be disturbed by predators, but make sure it’s visible for you to enjoy watching the birds.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the bird feeder regularly to prevent the spread of disease and keep the birds healthy.
Conclusion:
Building a wooden bird feeder with a squirrel guard is a rewarding project that can bring more wildlife into your garden. Not only will you create a beautiful feeder that attracts birds, but you’ll also ensure that the food is kept safe from hungry squirrels. Enjoy watching your feathered friends as they visit your newly constructed feeder!
For more woodworking ideas and comprehensive plans, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course for detailed instructions and professional guidance. Get started here.