Bird Feeder Plans

There are basically three types of bird feeder plans:

1. Platform Feeders
2. Hopper Feeders
3. Tube Feeders

You can play a part in controlling the types of birds that will use your bird feeder by the plan you choose to build. For example, to discourage crows and house sparrows, you will want to build a feeder that is small and has short perches or no perches at all. This type will invite smaller, more agile birds such as chickadees and nuthatches while discouraging the larger birds. Nonselective feeders are larger and have an ample perching area. They invite all birds regardless of their size and dexterity.

Platform Feeders

Of all the bird feeder plans, this is the most basic design. Platform feeders provide a spacious, stable perch where food can be spread out for several birds at a time. A rim around the edge reduces spilling and prevents food from being blown away. These feeders can be mounted at various heights on posts, windowsills, decks, and other structures. Any type of bird food can be put in a platform feeder such as seeds, fruits, berries and suet. Because of their size and ease of use, platform feeders are nonselective and inviting to any and all birds.

Hopper Feeders

Hoppers release food as it is eaten. With this type of bird feeder plan the seeds are funneled to a bottom tray where birds perch. Hoppers provide a stable perch that can be mounted on posts, platforms and windowsills, or hung from branches and eaves. You can also mount a hopper feeder on a pulley strung between a tree and a window, which allows the feeder to be “reeled in” for refills or to get shy birds to come closer to the house. Because they store and release seed as it’s used, hoppers offer a consistent food source with little maintenance. However, be sure the seed is not getting moldy in wet weather.

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Tube Feeders

Tube feeders are cylinders that store and release seed at several feeding outlets with adjacent perches. The larger types hold enough seed to last for several days, and the clear plastic makes it easy to see when a refill is needed. Because they hang freely from branches and house eaves, tube feeders are well suited to chickadees, house finches and other small birds. The unsteadiness and limited perching space discourages larger, more aggressive birds. Tube feeders can be made even more selective by shortening the perch to 1/2 inch or so, or removing it altogether. Goldfinches and Siskins are attracted to special tube feeders with slit-like openings allowing thistle seeds to be taken one at a time.

Whatever type of bird feeder plans you choose, don't forget maintenance. To prevent disease and poisoning of birds, keep your feeders clean, dry, and free from mold. About every other week remove all the seeds and other types of food and then clean and dry the feeders. Make sure your feeders are covered or sheltered from the rain and snow, and that you use the types that don't allow birds to stand where their droppings will fall into the seed.

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