DIY Squirrel Feeder: Easy Steps To Build Your Own

Hey guys! Are you looking for a fun and rewarding project that will not only entertain you but also provide some furry friends with a tasty treat? You've come to the right place! In this article, we’re diving into the wonderful world of DIY squirrel feeders. Squirrels, those energetic little acrobats of the backyard, can be quite the characters, and watching them frolic around a feeder you built yourself is incredibly satisfying. Plus, a dedicated squirrel feeder can help keep them away from your bird feeders, ensuring everyone gets their fair share. Let's get started on how to create the ultimate squirrel hangout spot right in your backyard!

Why Build a Squirrel Feeder?

Okay, so you might be thinking, “Why go to the trouble of building a squirrel feeder? Can't they just find their own food?” Well, while squirrels are resourceful creatures, providing them with a reliable food source has several benefits. First off, it’s super entertaining! Watching squirrels interact with a feeder, figuring out how to get to the goodies, is like having your own nature show. Their antics are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face, and it’s a great way to de-stress after a long day. Secondly, a well-placed squirrel feeder can actually help protect your bird feeders. Squirrels are notorious for raiding bird feeders, gobbling up all the seeds, and leaving the birds with nothing. By giving the squirrels their own food source, you can divert their attention and keep them happy, which means more seeds for the birds. It’s a win-win! Moreover, building a squirrel feeder is a fantastic way to engage with nature and learn more about the wildlife in your backyard. You’ll start to notice the individual personalities of the squirrels, their preferences, and their funny habits. It's an educational and rewarding experience for the whole family. Plus, it's a great project to get kids involved in, teaching them about animal care and the importance of providing for wildlife. And let’s not forget the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of building something useful and seeing it in action. A DIY squirrel feeder is a simple project that can bring a lot of joy and satisfaction, knowing you’re helping out your local wildlife. So, grab your tools, and let’s get building!

Types of Squirrel Feeders You Can Build

Alright, let’s talk about the fun part: the different types of squirrel feeders you can build! There’s no one-size-fits-all solution here, and the best feeder for you will depend on your space, your budget, and the kind of squirrels you have visiting your yard. One popular option is the simple platform feeder. This is basically a flat surface, like a wooden tray, where you can put the food. It's easy to build and perfect for scattering a variety of treats. However, it’s also the most accessible for squirrels (and other critters), so the food might disappear quickly. Then there’s the hopper feeder, which is a bit more sophisticated. It usually has a container to hold the food and a small opening at the bottom where the squirrels can access it. This helps to keep the food dry and prevents it from being gobbled up too fast. Hopper feeders can be made from wood, plastic, or even repurposed containers. For a bit of a challenge, you can try building a hanging feeder. These feeders dangle from a tree branch or post and require the squirrels to work a little harder to get to the food. This can be really entertaining to watch, as they figure out how to swing and reach the treats. You can make a hanging feeder from a variety of materials, like a coconut shell, a birdhouse, or even an old suet feeder. Another fun option is the jar feeder, which involves attaching a glass jar or plastic bottle to a wooden platform. The squirrels can reach inside the jar to grab the food, but it's a bit trickier than a simple platform. This type of feeder is great for dispensing smaller treats, like peanuts or sunflower seeds. And finally, if you're feeling ambitious, you could build an obstacle course feeder. This is basically a series of challenges that the squirrels have to overcome to get to the food. It could involve climbing, balancing, or even solving a simple puzzle. This type of feeder is sure to keep the squirrels entertained and provides hours of amusement for you as well. No matter what type you choose, building a squirrel feeder is a great way to add some fun to your backyard and help out your furry friends. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to build one!

Essential Materials and Tools

Okay, before we start hammering and sawing, let's make sure we have all the essential materials and tools for our DIY squirrel feeder project. Having everything on hand will make the building process smooth and enjoyable. First up, wood is a primary material for many squirrel feeders. You can use untreated lumber, plywood, or even reclaimed wood from old projects. Cedar or redwood are excellent choices because they are naturally resistant to rot and insects, which is important for an outdoor feeder. The amount of wood you need will depend on the size and design of your feeder, so it's a good idea to have a plan in mind before you head to the lumberyard. Next, you'll need some hardware to assemble your feeder. This includes screws, nails, and potentially some bolts or hinges, depending on the design. Galvanized or stainless steel hardware is best, as it will resist rust and corrosion when exposed to the elements. You might also need some wire or rope if you’re building a hanging feeder. For cutting the wood, a saw is essential. A hand saw will work just fine for smaller projects, but a circular saw or jigsaw will make quicker work of larger pieces. Safety glasses are a must when using power tools to protect your eyes from flying debris. A drill is another invaluable tool for this project. It will be used to pre-drill holes for screws, making assembly easier and preventing the wood from splitting. A drill with a variety of bits will be useful for different tasks. A measuring tape and pencil are necessary for accurate cuts and assembly. Precise measurements will ensure your feeder is sturdy and looks professional. Don't underestimate the importance of a good measuring tape! To hold pieces together while you're screwing or nailing, clamps can be a lifesaver. They free up your hands and ensure a tight, secure bond. Different types of clamps are available, but even a couple of basic bar clamps will be very helpful. And finally, for finishing touches, you might want some sandpaper to smooth rough edges and a non-toxic sealant or paint to protect the wood from the weather. Make sure any finish you use is safe for animals. With these materials and tools in hand, you'll be well-equipped to build a fantastic squirrel feeder that will keep your furry friends happy and well-fed!

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Simple Platform Feeder

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of building a simple platform feeder. This is a great project for beginners, and it’s super rewarding to see those squirrels chowing down on a feeder you made with your own two hands. So, grab your tools and let’s get started! Step 1: Gather Your Materials. You'll need a piece of wood for the platform (about 12x12 inches should do the trick), four pieces of wood for the legs (around 6-8 inches long each), screws or nails, a drill, a saw, a measuring tape, and a pencil. Cedar or redwood is ideal for the wood because they’re weather-resistant, but any untreated lumber will work. Step 2: Cut the Wood. If you haven't already, cut the wood for the platform and the legs to the desired sizes. Make sure your cuts are straight and clean. A circular saw or jigsaw will make this process easier, but a hand saw will do the job too. Step 3: Assemble the Legs. Take the four leg pieces and attach them to the underside of the platform. Position them near the corners of the platform for maximum stability. Use a drill to pre-drill holes, which will prevent the wood from splitting when you drive in the screws or nails. Step 4: Secure the Legs. Now, screw or nail the legs firmly to the platform. Make sure they are securely attached and can support the weight of the squirrels and the food. You might want to use wood glue in addition to screws or nails for extra strength. Step 5: Add Drainage Holes. To prevent water from pooling on the platform and spoiling the food, drill a few small drainage holes in the platform. This will help keep the food dry and fresh. Step 6: Sand and Finish (Optional). If you want to give your feeder a more polished look, you can sand down any rough edges and apply a non-toxic sealant or paint. This will also help protect the wood from the elements. Make sure the finish is completely dry before you put the feeder outside. Step 7: Mount Your Feeder. Find a suitable spot in your yard to mount your feeder. You can attach it to a tree, a post, or even a fence. Make sure it’s in a location that’s easily accessible for squirrels but away from predators like cats. Step 8: Fill It Up! Now for the fun part – fill your new squirrel feeder with their favorite treats! Peanuts, corn, sunflower seeds, and even fruits and vegetables are all great options. Step back and watch as the squirrels discover their new dining spot! And there you have it! A simple yet effective platform feeder that your local squirrels will absolutely love. Building this feeder is not only a fun project, but it also provides a valuable resource for wildlife in your backyard. Let's move on to some tips for attracting squirrels to your feeder!

Tips for Attracting Squirrels to Your Feeder

Okay, you've built your awesome squirrel feeder, but how do you make sure those furry little guys actually use it? Attracting squirrels to your feeder is a bit of an art, but with a few simple strategies, you can turn your backyard into the hottest squirrel hangout in the neighborhood. First things first: Location, location, location! Where you place your feeder can make all the difference. Squirrels are naturally wary creatures, so they need to feel safe and secure when they're eating. Place your feeder in an area that offers some cover, like near a tree or shrub, but also has a clear approach so they can spot any potential predators. Avoid placing it too close to bird feeders if you want to keep the squirrels from raiding them. Next up, offer the right food. Squirrels have pretty specific tastes, so you need to offer them what they love. Peanuts are a classic favorite, but they also enjoy sunflower seeds, corn, nuts, and even some fruits and vegetables. Experiment with different foods to see what your local squirrels prefer. A variety of treats will keep them coming back for more. Make it easy to find. Squirrels are naturally curious, but they might need a little encouragement to discover your feeder. You can sprinkle a few treats on the ground leading to the feeder to create a sort of “squirrel trail.” Once they find the food, they'll quickly learn where to go. Keep it filled. Squirrels are creatures of habit, so if they know there's always a reliable food source available, they're more likely to visit regularly. Make sure to check your feeder frequently and refill it as needed. An empty feeder is a sad sight for a hungry squirrel! Provide water. Just like any other animal, squirrels need access to fresh water, especially during hot weather. Consider placing a shallow dish of water near your feeder. This will not only attract squirrels but also help support other wildlife in your backyard. Be patient. It might take a little while for squirrels to discover your feeder and get used to visiting it. Don't get discouraged if you don't see them right away. With persistence and the right approach, you'll soon have a thriving squirrel community in your backyard. And there you have it – some simple yet effective tips for attracting squirrels to your feeder. With a little effort, you can create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for these fascinating creatures. Let's wrap things up with some final thoughts!

Building a squirrel feeder is a simple and fun way to engage with the wildlife in your backyard. Not only does it provide entertainment as you watch their antics, but it also helps protect your bird feeders by giving squirrels their own dedicated food source. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a welcoming space for these furry critters and enjoy the many benefits of having them around. So grab your tools, gather your materials, and get ready to build a squirrel-friendly haven in your backyard. You will not only help the squirrels but will also bring a touch of nature's entertainment right to your window. Happy building!