Make Own Natural Log Bird Feeder

This log bird feeder was the first bird feeder that I ever made. I was suprised at how easy it was, but I was shocked at how many wild birds it attracted.

I have had Downey Woodpeckers, Hairy Woodpeckers, White Breasted Nuthatches and Black-capped Chickadees and others feed from this log bird feeder.

You can use any type of hardwood for the project. If you can, use a big branch or a small tree that has fallen. Leave the living trees and snags (dead standing trees) for the wild birds to enjoy.

There is only one rule, have fun. You can use any size log, drill as many holes as you want, the look of the end product is up to you.

If you enjoyed making this log bird feeder, then please try one of my other projects. I will even show you how to make your own suet to use in this feeder.

Natural Log Bird Feeder:

Materials:

1- Branch or log 18 to 24 inches long and 3 to 8 inches thick. (If you don't have access to this type of log, you can purchase a piece of cedar from your local home center.)
1 - Medium to large eyebolt
4 - Feet of small chain or rope.

Tools:

(be sure to read all information provided with your tools including all safety precautions)

Eye protectors
Tree pruning saw
Electric drill
1/4 inch drill bit
1 1/2 spade bit

Step One: Cut your log to length. Cut the top at an angle from each side forming a point. This will keep snow and rain from sitting on the top of the feeder.
Step Two: Drill a hole in the top for your eye bolt. The hole should be about half of the diameter of the eyebolt.
Step Three: Screw in the eye bolt.
Step Four: Drill five or six 1 1/2" holes around the log. If the log has a diameter of two inches or less you can drill all the way through. If the diameter is larger than two inches only drill about half way through.
Step Five: Cut suet into about one inch squares.
Step Six: Place suet in each hole and press into place. Use gloves or a paper towel if you don't want suet all over you hands.
Step Seven: Once you have filled all the holes, hang your new feeder from a branch using chain or nylon rope.