How to Build a Bird Feeder

Looking for a great weekend project to do with your kids?

Why not build a bird feeder?

These instructions will show you how to build a bird feeder called a platform bird feeder.

Click here to learn how to build a bird house and many other backyard bird projects.

Platform bird feeders will attract a wide variety of birds. Small perching birds, as well as larger ground feeding birds, will feel comfortable at these feeders. Cardinals, Sparrows, Tufted Titmice, Juncos, Doves, Painted Buntings, Chickadees and many other birds will feed from platform feeders.

You should have fun when you build a bird feeder. Don't worry too much about exact measurements. You can adjust the size to fit your needs.

Tools:

(Make sure you read and understand the directions and safety instructions for your tools before using them.)

Handsaw
Wire cutters
Phillips head screw driver (electric or hand)
Drill
Counter sink drill bit
Tape measure
Framing square
Pencil
1/8" drill bit
Staple gun

Materials:

3 - 1 x 3 x 6'
1 1/4" long all weather screws
Aluminum window screening
1/2" Hardware cloth
Chain or rope
S-hooks
Eye screws
3/8" stainless steel staples

Cut List:

2 - 1 x 3 x 18"
3 - 1 x 3 x 15"
4 - 1 x 3 x 14"
1 piece of aluminum screen 14 1/2' x 14 1/2"
1 piece of 1/2" hardware cloth 14 1/2" x 14 1/2"

Step 1: Drill two pilot holes in the each end of the 1 x 3 x 18".
Step 2: Attach the 1 x 3 x 18" pieces to the 1 x 3 x 15" pieces using the 1 1/4" all weather screws, creating the frame.
Steps 3 and 4: Drill two holes in the bottom, center of the 1 x 3 x 18" pieces for the center support piece. Staple the screen to the bottom of the frame, about every 3".
Step 5: Place the 1 x 3 x 14" pieces, flat side down, around the frame. Drill three pilot holes in each and attach to the frame with 1 1/4" all weather screws.
Step 6: Staple the hardware cloth to the top using 3/8" stainless steel staples.

After you build a bird feeder you need to decide where you are going to put it.

To hang it you will need to cut four pieces of chain about 30" long. Screw in one eye screw into each corner. Attach the chain to the eye screws using s-hooks. Attach all four pieces together at the top with on s-hook and hang.

To mount on top of a rail, simply drill three pilot holes through the center support and attach with screws.

Observing the feeding behavior of wild birds will be fascinating to you and your children. Knowing that they were involved in the construction process will give them an even bigger sense of accomplishment.

If you enjoyed this build a bird feeder project, try building a bird house. Click here for instructions.

check out the Backyard Birding swicki at eurekster.com

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