Backyard Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder: DIY to Feed Birds and Not Pests

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Introduction

Feeding birds in your backyard can be a delightful and rewarding experience, but it often comes with a challenge: keeping those pesky squirrels at bay. These bushy-tailed critters have a knack for emptying bird feeders in no time, leaving you frustrated and the birds without their much-needed sustenance. However, with a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can create a squirrel-proof bird feeder that will keep your feathered friends happy and your furry foes out.

In this article, we will guide you through various methods to build a squirrel-proof bird feeder, using different materials and techniques. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting out, these projects are designed to be easy to follow and require minimal tools.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior

Before we dive into the DIY projects, it's essential to understand how squirrels behave around bird feeders. Squirrels are agile and determined creatures that can jump up to 10 feet in a single bound. They are also known for their ability to chew through plastic and wood, making them formidable opponents for any bird feeder.

Squirrels often target bird feeders because they provide an easy source of food. Once they discover a feeder, they can quickly empty it, leaving the birds without their meal. Moreover, squirrels can be aggressive towards birds, chasing them away and making the yard less attractive to other birds.

Method 1: The Bird-Proof Squirrel Feeder

One of the most creative and effective ways to build a squirrel-proof bird feeder is by using a combination of materials like wood and glass. This method was inspired by various DIY projects found online, including one on Instructables.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Bird-Proof Squirrel Feeder

1. Gather Materials

   • 1×6 piece of wood (about 30 inches total)
   • Wide mouth 2-quart jar
   • Two small metal hinges
   • Wood glue
   • Nails
   • Sandpaper or curved wood file for smoothing edges

2. Cutting the Wood

   • Cut a hole at one end of the wood piece where the bottom of the jar will fit. Use the jar and a pencil to make a pattern for the hole. Cut it out with a jigsaw and smooth the edges with sandpaper or a curved wood file.
   • Cut off this piece at 6 inches and use it as a template to center the next hole for the top of the jar. Once that hole is cut, cut off another 6-inch piece.
   • Cut a third 6-inch piece for the base and an eleven-inch piece for the back of the feeder.

3. Building the Frame

   • Glue and nail the solid six-inch base piece to the piece with the large hole to form the bottom of the feeder.
   • Pre-drill five nail holes on the eleven-inch piece used for the back. The bottom three nails will go into the solid piece, while the top two nails will go into the piece with the large hole, placed close to the edge.

4. Adding the Hinged Top

   • Attach the hinges to the top piece of wood first, then let it rest on top of the jar while attaching the hinges to the back.
   • This setup allows for easy removal of the jar for cleaning.

5. Finishing Touches

   • Stain, varnish, or paint the feeder if desired. You can also mount it upright on a fencepost or place it on the ground.

6. Testing Your Feeder

   • Add some peanuts or birdseed to your new feeder and watch as the birds enjoy their meal while keeping those pesky squirrels out.

Method 2: The Squirrel-Resistant Bird Feeder Challenge

Another approach to building a squirrel-proof bird feeder involves using recycled materials and creative designs. This method is detailed in an Instructables project titled "Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Challenge."

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Squirrel-Resistant Bird Feeder

1. The Fortress

   • This design uses glass and is highly effective at keeping squirrels out but may intimidate birds initially.
   • Cut salvaged 1.5-inch copper pipe into 3/4-inch lengths using a pipe cutter.
   • Attach these pieces together using all-purpose silicone, creating two pyramid shapes.
   • Adhere these pyramids to a glass base using silicone, ensuring alignment with green tape to prevent excess silicone from oozing out.

2. Adding Hinges and Perches

   • Use seat belt material as hinges on the glass for durability.
   • Drill a 1.5-inch hole for mounting on a pole and secure it with 4 coins as spacers to allow for water drainage.
   • Attach a piece of coat hanger as a latch; this will prevent squirrels from accessing the feeder.

3. Finishing Touches

   • Add a perch made from scrap 3/4-inch wood with a slot cut into it using silicone for attachment.
   • Mount your feeder and enjoy watching birds feed while keeping squirrels at bay.

Method 3: The Umbrella Solution

For those who prefer a more unconventional approach, using an umbrella as a baffle can be highly effective in keeping squirrels away from bird feeders. This method was inspired by Steve DiMasi's project on Uncharted DIY.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Umbrella as a Baffle

1. Choosing the Right Umbrella

   • Select a large golf umbrella that can provide sufficient coverage for your bird feeder.
   • Spray-paint the umbrella with camouflage colors to blend it into your backyard environment.

2. Mounting the Umbrella

   • Attach the umbrella to a sturdy branch or pole using Gorilla Tape along the edges to reinforce them against bites and tears.

3. Testing Your Setup

   • Hang your umbrella-baffled feeder and observe how effectively it keeps squirrels out while allowing birds to feed comfortably.

Additional Tips for Squirrel-Proofing Your Feeder

1. Location Matters

   • Position your feeder at least 10 feet away from any structures that squirrels might use as a jumping point. This will reduce their ability to access the feeder easily.

2. Material Selection

   • Use materials that are difficult for squirrels to chew through, such as glass or metal. Avoid using plastic or wood as these materials are easily damaged by squirrels.

3. Baffles and Barriers

   • Install baffles around your feeder poles or wires to prevent squirrels from climbing up. You can use plastic or metal baffles that are difficult for squirrels to chew through.

4. Regular Maintenance

   • Regularly clean and maintain your feeder to prevent it from becoming a target for squirrels. Empty any debris or leftover food regularly and refill with fresh birdseed.

5. Alternative Feeding Options

   • Consider using feeders that are specifically designed with squirrel-proof features such as weight-activated perches or cage-like enclosures that allow birds inside but keep squirrels out.

By following these DIY projects and tips, you can create a backyard bird feeder that is both enjoyable for birds and secure against those pesky squirrels. Whether you choose to build a bird-proof feeder using wood and glass or opt for an umbrella baffle solution, these methods will ensure that your feathered friends have a safe and satisfying dining experience while keeping those furry foes at bay.

Conclusion

Feeding birds in your backyard should be a delightful experience, not a frustrating one. With these DIY projects and tips, you can create a squirrel-proof bird feeder that will keep your yard attractive to birds while keeping those pesky squirrels out. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting out, these projects are designed to be easy to follow and require minimal tools. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy watching your birds feed without the hassle of those squirrels