Anyone can easily make a homemade bird feeder. There are many different types of bird feeders you can make, including platform feeders, tube feeders, hopper feeders, and suet feeders. But, in its most basic form, a bird feeder is simply a raised surface on which birds can feed, or a platform feeder. Creating a good platform feeder is simple.
Platform feeders can be made using any horizontal surface. One popular way to make a platform feeders is to cut out the front of a milk jug, leaving a lip at the bottom to hold seed in. Birds can then access the seed inside the feeder through the hole, and the top part of the milk jug keeps rain out of the feeder. Small holes can also be poked in the bottom of the feeder to provide drainage for any rain that does make its way into the feeder. To hang a jug feeder, simply drill two holes on either side of the milk jug, and thread a hangar or string through the holes.
Sturdier platform feeders can be created with wood. Making a wooden platform feeder is easy. Buy a piece of thin plywood and saw it down to size. Most platform feeders are approximately twelve inches square. Then, cut a 2x4 into long, thin pieces that you attach around the platform. At two inches high, these edge pieces are the perfect height to keep seed in the feeder. To attach the edge pieces, drive screws through the bottom of the feeder into the edges. Zinc-plated screws are recommended as they won't rust. Finally, with a very small drill bit, drill through the four corners of the platform right next to the edge pieces. This will provide drainage holes so that seed doesn't get wet and spoil. It will also allow you to attach a hangar to the feeder. To hang the feeder, tie water-resistant cord to all four sides of the feeder. Make sure each of the four cords are the same length so that the feeder will hang flat. Then, tie all four cords together above the feeder and hang using an S-hook.
If you live in a wet climate, you might want to consider simply making the frame for a platform feeder using your edge pieces, and then screwing a screen in beneath the frame. This will easily shed all water and won't mildew in wetter climates. There are also many other ways to mount a wooden feeder. Attaching short legs will turn your platform feeder into a ground feeder. Platform feeder can also be mounted directly to a 2x4 or a one inch metal pole.
Making a bird feeder is a satisfying project that will pay off when the birds start showing up. Platform feeders are the easiest way to get started as they are simple. All you need is a flat, raised surface from which to feed the birds in your yard.
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