We are so lucky in New Zealand to have such a large variety of beautiful birds to admire and help us connect with nature. Did you know that birds need help during the cooler months to find natural food supplies? Feeding birds bread is not ideal as it discourages them from seeking out nutrient-rich food supplies. We can help by having quality bird seed and fresh water available for them in our gardens.
If you’re feeling inspired to attract wild birds to your garden, try making your own bird-feeder like the one below. This article gives you simple step by step instructions and you’ll feel so satisfied when you get to appreciate wild birds feeding from your very own creation!
DIY Bird Feeder
It is generally discouraged to feed the wildlife around you, as animals can easily become dependent on outside food sources. However, birds are an exception from this rule – in order to survive the harsh winter colds, they do indeed need our help.
Birds get their natural seed sources depleted during the winter months and they need extra calories in order to survive. They use up a lot of energy in order to produce body heat, so it’s important we help them replace the lost energy.
If you don’t have a bird feeder in your backyard already, what are you waiting for? This DIY Wire Mesh Bird Feeder tutorial uses materials that you probably already have tucked away somewhere in your home, so it’ll surely not break the bank. So get your protective gloves ready and let’s get crafty!
Pliers
Wire Cutters
Drill or Bodkin Needle
Welded Wire Mesh
Cable Ties
Plant Pot Saucers
Threaded Rod
Washers and Nuts
First you’ll need to roll out your mesh and cut it to size. This project was created using a 12” high and 16” long piece of mesh, but you can vary the size depending on the outcome you’re going for.
Next you’ll have to create a tube shape. Roll up your mesh and secure it with cable ties. Then take the bottom saucer and drill holes in it as seen on the photo below. These will be used to tie the saucer to the tube. Make another hole in the middle of the saucer using a utility knife – this should be the size of the threaded rod.
Cut two small pieces of wire and use them to tie the saucer to the tube through the small holes. Take the threaded rod and run it through the middle hole. Secure it with a washer and a nut, so the saucer is held firmly between them.
Make a hole in the middle of the top (larger) saucer with a utility knife. This will also be used for the threaded rod to go through. Fill the feeder with bird food – make sure to choose a kind that doesn’t fall out of the holes.
Once your feeder is filled with food, you can close it off with the top saucer. Secure it with a washer and a hoop nut. Now you’re almost ready – you only need to add perches for the birds to sit on, which can be small sticks.
Once you have placed the perches, your bird feeder should be ready to be hung outside. Enjoy having your feathered friends visit your backyard – they’ll be grateful for your help!
Click here for more creative ideas for DIY bird feeders and making your own bird treats – including what’s good to feed birds and what’s not.
About The Author: Katie Brooks
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