The Answer Man

Hello, friends! The Answer Man here, and if you’re anything like me, you love the sound of birdsong with your morning coffee. Birds aren’t just a joy to watch—they’re also great for your garden, keeping pests in check and adding a little extra life to your landscape. Today, we’re diving into a rewarding DIY project: building your own birdhouses and feeders. It’s easier than you might think, and I’ll walk you through how to get started.

Why Attract Birds?

Before we grab the toolbox, let’s talk benefits. Attracting birds to your yard isn’t just about ambiance. These little visitors help control insects, pollinate plants, and even spread seeds. Plus, creating a bird-friendly yard is a fantastic way to engage kids or unwind with a simple project that pays off season after season.

Choosing the Right Birdhouse Design

Different birds like different homes. The key is to keep it simple, sturdy, and safe.

• Wrens and chickadees love small, enclosed spaces with a tiny entrance hole (about 1” diameter).
• Bluebirds prefer a bit more space and a slightly larger entrance (about 1.5”).
• Purple martins need multi-compartment houses, often placed high up on poles.

Stick to untreated wood like cedar or pine. Avoid painting or staining the inside—birds prefer natural interiors. Ventilation holes and drainage are must-haves to keep things dry and breathable.

Pro Tip:

Mount birdhouses 5-10 feet off the ground, facing away from prevailing winds. Attach predator guards if squirrels or raccoons frequent your yard.

Building a Simple Birdhouse

Here’s a basic material list for a small songbird house:

• One 1″ x 6″ x 6′ cedar board
• Screws or nails
• Wood glue
• Drill with bits
• Saw
• Sandpaper

Cut the board into these pieces:

• Back: 10” x 6”
• Front: 9” x 6” with a 1” entrance hole
• Bottom: 4” x 4” with small drainage holes
• Roof: two 7” x 6” pieces
• Sides: two 9” x 4”

Assemble with glue and screws, then sand rough edges. Add ventilation holes near the roofline and hang it securely.

DIY Bird Feeders

Feeders are another great way to attract birds, especially in winter when food is scarce. Here are a few easy DIY feeder ideas:

1. Pine Cone Feeder

• Spread peanut butter over a large pine cone.
• Roll it in birdseed.
• Hang it from a tree branch with twine.

2. Recycled Bottle Feeder

• Take a clean plastic bottle and poke two holes near the bottom.
• Insert wooden spoons through the holes as perches.
• Fill the bottle with birdseed and hang it upside down.

3. Teacup Feeder

• Attach a vintage teacup and saucer to a dowel or hang from a hook.
• Fill with seed and enjoy the charm!

Best Seeds to Offer

Different seeds attract different birds. Here are a few favorites:

• Black-oil sunflower seeds: Loved by finches, cardinals, and chickadees
• Nyjer (thistle): Goldfinch favorite
• Safflower: Attracts cardinals, repels squirrels
• Suet cakes: Great for woodpeckers and nuthatches

Add Water and Shelter

Birds also need a clean water source. A shallow birdbath or even a ceramic dish will do the trick. Place it near shrubs or trees for cover. Speaking of cover, planting native bushes and flowers gives birds a safe place to perch and hide from predators.

Final Tips for Bird-Friendly Success

• Clean birdhouses out annually to prevent disease.
• Keep feeders stocked and clean.
• Avoid using pesticides in your garden.
• Keep cats indoors or provide safe zones for birds.

Wrap-Up

With a little creativity and a few supplies, you can turn your yard into a bird paradise. Not only will you enjoy their company, but you’ll also be supporting local ecosystems in the process. And remember, if you need supplies—wood, seed, tools, or just a few friendly tips—stop by C&C Farm and Home in Lebanon or Bolivar. The Answer Man is always happy to help make your backyard a haven for feathered friends!