Making a DIY squirrel feeder can be a fun and rewarding project that brings wildlife closer to your home. If you love watching squirrels but aren’t sure how to make a feeder, we’ve got you covered. Our guide presents 15 easy DIY squirrel feeder ideas that are perfect for anyone interested in attracting these furry friends to their yard. From straightforward designs to more creative solutions, there’s an option for every skill level.
Not only does building a squirrel feeder provide entertainment, but it also helps support local wildlife. Our step-by-step instructions, including what materials are needed and helpful feeding tips, make it easy for you to make a squirrel feeder. As you embark on this project, you will not only gain the joy of crafting but also the delight of watching squirrels enjoy your creation. Stay tuned for how to attract squirrels to your new feeder and ensure it stays in tip-top condition.
Why Make a Squirrel Feeder?
Making a DIY squirrel feeder offers numerous benefits, making it a worthwhile endeavor:
- Entertainment and Observation: Squirrel feeders provide a fascinating way to observe these active creatures up close, enjoying their antics and playful nature.
- Supplemental Food Source: During lean times, such as winter or drought, a feeder can supplement their natural food sources, helping them survive and thrive.
- Attracts Other Wildlife: Squirrels often attract other wildlife, such as birds and chipmunks, making a diverse ecosystem in your backyard.
- Educational Value: Making a squirrel feeder is an excellent educational activity for children, teaching them about wildlife conservation and animal behavior.
- Sustainability: Using natural materials to build a feeder promotes sustainability and reduces waste.
- Customization: You can tailor the feeder to your backyard aesthetic, making it a unique and decorative addition to your outdoor space.
- Connecting with Nature: Building a squirrel feeder fosters a connection with nature and encourages an appreciation for the local wildlife.
DIY Squirrel Feeder: Attract Furry Friends to Your Yard
Squirrels, with their bushy tails and playful antics, can be delightful additions to your backyard. A homemade squirrel feeder is a great way to attract these energetic creatures and offer them a healthy, convenient food source. Building a squirrel feeder is also a fun and easy project that anyone can do.
Materials Needed:
- Wood: You can use cedar, plywood, or other scrap wood that you have on hand. Cedar is a good option as it’s naturally weather-resistant.
- Screws or nails: For assembling the feeder.
- Saw: Handsaw or power saw depending on the size of wood you’re using.
- Drill: To make holes for hanging and for drainage.
- Hinges (optional): If you want to make a feeder with a hinged lid.
- Plexiglass or clear plastic (optional): If you want to make a viewing window.
- Wire or twine: For hanging the feeder.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Choose a Design:
- Simple platform feeder: A basic platform with raised edges offers an easy and accessible feeding spot for squirrels.
- Corn cob feeder: A piece of wood with a sturdy nail will do – just impale a corn cob for a squirrel feast.
- Box feeder: A small box with an opening provides protection from the elements and can hold more food.
- Hanging feeder: These look charming and can sometimes deter larger birds. A hanging bottle repurposed into a food dispenser is one DIY option.
2. Cut the Wood:
- Measure and cut the wood pieces according to your design. For a box feeder, you’ll typically need a base, back, two sides, a front piece, and a roof. Ensure that the edges will fit together.
3. Assemble the Feeder:
- Use screws or nails to connect the wooden pieces. If building a box feeder, pre-drill holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
- Optional: Attach hinges to the roof and the back of the feeder if you want to make refilling easier.
4. Build Drainage Holes:
- Drill small holes in the base of the feeder to allow water to drain out and prevent the food from getting soggy or moldy.
5. Add a Viewing Window (Optional):
- Cut a window in one of the side panels and cover it with a piece of plexiglass or clear plastic. This lets you watch the squirrels enjoying their meal.
6. Attach a Hanging Mechanism:
- Drill holes near the top or use eye-hooks and thread strong wire or twine for hanging securely.
7. Decorate (Optional):
- Paint or stain the feeder if you like – remember to use non-toxic paint safe for wildlife.
Feeding Tips:
- Location: Place the feeder in an area that is relatively open but safe from predators, about 10 feet off the ground and away from tree trunks that predators can climb.
- Food: Offer a variety of squirrel-friendly foods like unsalted nuts (in shells for entertainment!), seeds, dried corn, and fruits. Avoid processed foods with added salt and sugar.
- Maintenance: Clean the feeder regularly to prevent the spread of disease. Replace old, moldy food.
Additional Considerations
- If you have problems with squirrels accessing your bird feeders, design your squirrel feeder to be more challenging. Think about obstacles or slippery surfaces that will deter birds while still entertaining squirrels.
- Get creative! Use recycled materials such as milk jugs, yogurt containers, or plastic bottles to make unique and eco-friendly squirrel feeders.
Enjoy Your New Squirrel Friends!
Building a squirrel feeder is a rewarding project that brings joy to both squirrels and nature lovers. Soon, you’ll have lively squirrels adding a dose of furry entertainment to your backyard haven.
FAQs on DIY Squirrel Feeder
Squirrel feeders are a delightful addition to any backyard, attracting these playful critters for your daily dose of outdoor entertainment. If you’re considering setting up a DIY squirrel feeder, it’s natural to have questions. Below are some common FAQs to guide you in the world of DIY squirrel feeding:
Where to Place a DIY Squirrel Feeder?
When installing your DIY squirrel feeder, location matters. Opt for spots within easy reach of trees to mimic natural settings. Ensure the feeder is accessible to squirrels, away from potential predator ambush zones. Safety is crucial, so avoid placing it too close to any hiding spots for pesky backyard hunters.
How to Maintain a DIY Squirrel Feeder?
Maintenance is key to a healthy squirrel population in your yard. Regularly clean out old food, refill the feeder with fresh treats, and inspect for any damages. By keeping your feeder clean and well-stocked, you provide a welcoming environment for squirrels.
What Foods to Put in a DIY Squirrel Feeder?
Squirrels have diverse palates, enjoying nuts, seeds, and fruits. Opt for a variety of these foods to cater to different squirrel tastes. Ensure the foods are fresh and free from mold to keep the squirrels coming back for more.
DIY Squirrel Feeder Safety Measures
Building a safe environment for your squirrel visitors is essential. Avoid using harmful materials in your feeder construction, secure it firmly to prevent accidents, and design it to minimize squirrel-related risks. Prioritize safety alongside enjoyment.
Attracting Squirrels to a DIY Feeder
Attracting squirrels requires a bit of finesse. Use scents like peanut butter or oils to lure them in, strategically place the feeder where squirrels frequent, and make a cozy space with nearby shelter. Make your feeder the go-to spot for squirrels in your neighborhood.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with DIY Squirrel Feeders
Steer clear of common pitfalls by ensuring correct feeder placement, using squirrel-friendly materials, and avoiding overfeeding. These mistakes can deter squirrels or lead to unwanted encounters, disrupting the harmony of your squirrel feeding experience.
DIY Squirrel Feeder Variations and Ideas
Get creative with your squirrel feeder design. Explore various styles, customize features to suit your backyard aesthetics, and innovate to enhance functionality. Let your imagination run wild to craft a unique feeder that stands out in your yard.
Benefits of DIY Squirrel Feeders for Conservation
DIY squirrel feeders aren’t just for fun; they play a role in conservation efforts too. By attracting squirrels, you contribute to biodiversity enhancement and make a thriving ecosystem right in your backyard. Embrace DIY feeders as a way to promote environmental harmony.
15 Easy DIY Squirrel Feeder Ideas (Make a Squirrel Feeder)
Discover 15 DIY squirrel feeder ideas to attract adorable critters to your backyard. Make a squirrel feeder effortlessly with these creative projects!
1. DIY Corn Cob Squirrel Feeder
Discover how to make a charming squirrel corn cob feeder with the DIY plans from Gray House Studio. Perfect for a fun family activity, this project is simple enough to complete in about an hour and requires minimal supplies. Engage with nature and provide a delightful dining spot for your furry neighbors.
Follow the step-by-step instructions to build a sturdy feeder that’s sure to attract squirrels and entertain your household. With just a few cedar fence pickets, some basic tools, and a dash of creativity, you’ll be on your way to crafting an engaging outdoor addition that brings joy to both you and the local wildlife.
2. Squirrel Slinky Feeder Tutorial
Get ready to make a Squirrel Slinky Feeder with KiwiCo‘s easy DIY guide! Perfect for families who enjoy crafting and nature, this project is designed for simplicity and fun. In just a few steps, you’ll transform a few household items into a delightful feeder that’s sure to attract furry friends to your backyard.
Grab a slinky, some nuts, pipe cleaner, and twine, and you’re all set to craft an entertaining snack spot for squirrels. This engaging activity not only provides a snack for local wildlife but also offers a wonderful opportunity to observe and appreciate these energetic animals. So gather your materials, and let’s start building a special treat for your neighborhood squirrels!
3. DIY Mini Picnic Table Squirrel Feeder
Ready to give your local squirrels a dining spot of their own? Dunn DIY offers a step-by-step guide to building a mini picnic table squirrel feeder that’s both fun and functional. Engage with nature by making a charming feeder that’s sure to attract these playful backyard visitors.
Our tutorial simplifies the process with clear instructions, making it an enjoyable project for adults and kids alike. Learn how to cut wood, assemble the pieces with glue, and hang your finished feeder. Plus, discover what snacks squirrels love most! Get started and enjoy watching your furry friends feast at their new picnic spot.
4. How to Make a Squirrel Feeder
Looking to attract some furry friends to your backyard? Family Handyman offers a clear, step-by-step guide on how to build a squirrel feeder that’s sure to bring the local wildlife right to your window. With a 1-gallon glass jar, a cedar fence board, and a few screws, you can make a cozy dining spot for squirrels.
This DIY project is perfect for nature lovers wanting to provide a special place for squirrels to enjoy a snack. It’s an engaging way to observe these playful creatures up close while keeping them away from bird feeders. Get ready to enjoy the charming sight of “squirrel under glass” with your homemade feeder.
5. Easy DIY Squirrel Feeder
Ready to make a squirrel feeder that’s both simple to make and sure to entertain your backyard friends? Lockwood’s Workshop offers a YouTube guide on crafting an easy DIY squirrel feeder that’s perfect for nature lovers and DIY enthusiasts. With straightforward instructions and minimal materials needed, you can build a charming addition to your garden that will attract squirrels and provide them with a steady source of food.
The video is accompanied by light-hearted music and animation, making it not only educational but also enjoyable to watch. As you follow along, you’ll gain useful tips on feeder construction that can be easily customized to fit your outdoor space. Engage with the local wildlife in a fun and rewarding way by building your very own squirrel feeder today.
6. How to Make a Squirrel Feeder
Craft a delightful squirrel feeder for your furry friends, by following this engaging and straightforward guide. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and DIY hobbyists, this project requires minimal supplies: a six-foot long, six-inch wide board, one-inch screws, and a half-gallon jar (like a pickle jar). You’ll enjoy the simple yet creative process of making and assembling the feeder, which includes drilling entrance holes and fitting the jar.
Perfect for attracting adorable squirrels like Jerry, this feeder is a budget-friendly creation under $10. Add a touch of wilderness charm to your backyard, and watch the squirrels revel in their new dining spot. Perfect for viewing from your porch!
7. Mason Jar Squirrel Feeder Ideas
Build a charming squirrel feeder with just a mason jar, a serving fork, and some wire, following Chelsey’s simple DIY guide on The Paper Mama. This easy-to-assemble feeder is not only cost-effective but also provides a fantastic way to watch squirrels and other wildlife enjoy a treat right from your window. Fill the jar with nuts, secure it to a visible spot in your garden, and get ready for some entertaining animal antics. Perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy crafting, this feeder brings a bit of wildlife fun to your backyard.
8. Make Your Own Squirrel Feeder
Making a squirrel feeder is a rewarding and enjoyable project that adds life and entertainment to your backyard. SheKnows provides a straightforward guide to crafting a feeder using simple materials such as a Mason jar, a wooden stick, wire, and nuts. By selecting a transparent container, you can enjoy watching squirrels as they visit your DIY creation.
The process involves securing the stick with wire for the squirrels to perch on and attaching the feeder to a visible outdoor spot. Fill it with nuts, and soon enough, you’ll have a charming spectacle of nature’s little acrobats right outside your window. Remember, the key to a successful squirrel feeder is ensuring it’s sturdy and well-placed for the best viewing experience.
9. DIY Wooden Squirrel Feeder
Build a fun and engaging backyard activity with this DIY Squirrel Feeder tutorial from Birds and Blooms. Perfect for nature lovers and DIY enthusiasts, this project offers a clear view of playful squirrels as they dine. You’ll need minimal materials: a cedar fence board, screws, and a glass jar.
Follow the easy step-by-step instructions to craft a feeder that not only entertains but also helps keep squirrels away from bird feeders. Get ready to enjoy the charming sight of squirrels “under glass” while contributing to the wildlife in your garden.
10. Wooden Squirrel Feeder Building Plan
Ready to craft a unique squirrel feeder that will charm your backyard critters? Jamie Dorobek’s C.R.A.F.T. blog guides you through a delightful DIY project with a personal touch. Learn how to apply crackle paint for a vintage effect, make your own wooden shingles, and assemble a sturdy structure with liquid nails.
Stain the shingles for a finished look and personalize them with a hand-painted sign. Engage in this creative endeavor to provide a sophisticated dining spot for your furry friends. It’s a fun, easy-to-follow activity that results in a charming addition to any outdoor space.
11. How to Make Bird and Squirrel Feeder
Making bird and squirrel feeders is a fun and simple activity that can bring nature closer to your home. Thrifty Nifty Mommy offers easy DIY instructions for crafting feeders using common household items like apples, a milk jug, and some string. By following these straightforward steps, you can prepare a delightful treat for your local wildlife. Fill the feeders with a mix of peanut butter and seeds for the birds, or opt for a special wildlife blend to attract squirrels and chipmunks.
Not only is this project quick and easy, but it also encourages children to engage with and care for the animals in their backyard. With the added benefit of using affordable and nutritious Companion brand products from Food Lion, you can ensure your feathered and furry friends enjoy a balanced diet. Get ready to enjoy the sights of happy birds and squirrels right outside your window!
12. Make Your Own Squirrel Feeder
Struggling with pesky squirrels raiding your bird feeders? Stuck at Home Mom offers a clever and easy solution—making a squirrel feeder. With just peanut butter, birdseed, and a suet feeder, you can craft a designated snacking spot for squirrels.
This not only provides a source of entertainment but also helps keep the little critters away from bird food. Hang it just low enough to challenge the squirrels and enjoy a more peaceful birdwatching experience. Follow these simple steps to make your backyard wildlife-friendly and harmonious.
13. Simple DIY Squirrel Feeder
Make a fun and engaging squirrel feeder with everyday items from your home! On a gloomy but warm November day, P and I crafted a simple feeder to distract squirrels from our pumpkins. Using an empty puffs container, we poked holes, smashed nuts, and crumbled old bread with an adorable helper’s assistance.
A smear of peanut butter and a sprinkle of trail mix later, our DIY feeder was ready. Hang it on a visible branch and enjoy the sight of squirrels feasting away. It’s an easy project with household materials—perfect for a cozy crafting session. The Peanut Gallery
14. Making a Squirrel Feeder
Build a welcoming space for squirrels in your garden with a homemade squirrel feeder, courtesy of Fauna Feeders. With simple materials like a cedar fence board and a glass jar, you can easily craft a durable and attractive feeder.
This feeder not only provides a dedicated spot for squirrels to enjoy treats like peanuts and corn kernels but also keeps them from invading bird feeders. Follow our step-by-step guide to constructing a squirrel feeder that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring your furry visitors are well-fed and your garden remains a peaceful haven for all wildlife.
15. DIY Corn and Sunflower Seeds Squirrel Feeder
Get crafty with your kids by making a DIY squirrel feeder—a fun and engaging project perfect for all ages. Rush & Ramble provides an easy-to-follow guide that turns simple materials like toilet paper rolls, peanut butter, and birdseed into a backyard wildlife haven.
If peanut allergies are a concern, swap out peanut butter for a safe alternative nut or seed butter. Not only does this activity foster a love for nature and animals, but it also helps develop fine motor skills and creativity in young ones. So grab your supplies, and let’s make a snack spot for our furry friends!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our guide on 15 easy DIY squirrel feeder ideas has equipped you with everything you need to make a squirrel feeder that not only enhances your yard but also supports local wildlife. Whether you chose a simple design or opted for a more creative approach, you are now part of a community of individuals contributing positively to nature’s balance. Keep these squirrel feeders filled, and enjoy the delightful sight of your new furry friends. Remember, the joy of watching squirrels is just a project away. Let your creativity and love for wildlife guide you in continuing to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature.