DIY Wire Mesh Bird Feeder

Birds have a hard time surviving the harsh winter temperatures – especially the non-migrating kind. Their natural food sources are depleted and they have trouble accessing essential nutrients – so they surely appreciate a little help from us! Let me show you how to create your own wire mesh bird feeder.

During winter, birds use up the majority of their energy to generate heat in order to fight the cold. This means they have a bigger need for calories than during other times of the year – however, finding seeds and natural nutrients can get exhausting. Fortunately for them, more and more people decide to hang bird feeders outside to help them cope during the harsh winters. And it’s a mutually rewarding experience, as our little feathered friends love to say thanks with some cheerful singing!

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At the end of February, we can feel the spring approaching, but it’s still a long way to go until the night frosts stop bringing the temperatures down. And since February is National Bird Feeder Month, if you haven’t already got a bird feeder hung in your backyard, it’s time to get one – and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune either! If you have some leftover wire mesh from a summertime project and some plant pot saucers lying around your house, you’re almost all set for creating this wonderful DIY Wire Mesh Bird Feeder. 

Check out these other homemade bird feeder tutorials we have:

• Recycled Plastic Coffee Can Bird Feeder and House
• Egg Carton Bird Feeder and Nesting Station
• DIY Natural Bird Feeder Made with Bagels

So get your protective gloves ready and let us walk you through the steps of creating this project. Your local wildlife will thank you for it!

What you’ll need:

• Pliers 
• Wire Cutters
• Drill or Bodkin Needle
• Welded Wire Mesh or Chicken Wire
• Cable Ties
• Plant Pot Saucers (2)
• Threaded Rod
• Washers and Nuts

How to create this DIY Wire Mesh Bird Feeder

Step 1. 

First, you’ll have to prepare your supplies. Roll out the wire mesh and measure out your desired length. We used a 12” high and 16” long piece for this project. 

Step 2. 

Based on the measurements, cut the mesh. Use wire cutters to achieve a clean finish. 

Step 3. 

Next you’ll need to create a tube out of the wire mesh. There should be a section about 2 holes wide overlapping. Secure the ends with cable ties, while making sure that your tube has the same diameter throughout.  

Step 4. 

Take the bottom (smaller) saucer and make 2×2 holes on it with a drill bit like seen on the photo below. These holes will be used to tie the tube to the saucer. Then take a utility knife and make a hole in the middle that is the appropriate size for the threaded rod.

Step 5. 

Once you finished preparing the bottom saucer, it’s time to tie it to the tube. Cut two 2”-3” long wire pieces and place the tube on the saucer. Use the wire pieces to tie it down tightly through the little holes. 

Step 6. 

Take the threaded rod and run it through the middle hole on the saucer. Secure it with a washer and a nut, so the plant pot saucer is held firmly between them. Slide another nut on the top of the threaded rod for the top saucer to sit on. 

Step 7.

Take the top (larger) saucer and make a hole in the middle of it using a utility knife, similar to the bottom saucer. This should also be the size of the threaded rod.

Step 8. 

Before you place the top saucer on the bird feeder, fill the tube with bird food. Make sure to choose a kind that doesn’t fall out of the holes – I like these bird cakes and crumble them inside the tube.

Step 9.

Once you are happy with the amount of bird food inside the feeder, close it off by placing the top saucer on the tube and securing it with a washer and a hoop nut. 

Step 10.

Your bird feeder is almost completely ready now – the last thing you’ll have to do is use a couple of small sticks as perches for the birds to sit on. Make sure that these are long enough so that the birds can feed comfortably!

Once you placed the perches, you’re all done – you have your very own bird feeder. Feel free to hang it outside and enjoy having feathered guests spending their time in your backyard!  Here’s the best place for a bird feeder. Your local wildlife will be thankful for your contribution. 

Some useful tips to note:

• If you are unsure what type of seed is the best choice for birds in your area, consult the local animal shops, where they may be able to give location-based advice. However, sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, peanuts and corn are usually a safe choice for most areas.
• Although birds feeders are the most useful during winter, food shortages can occur at any time of the year – so don’t forget about your feathered friends once the temperatures get warmer!]
• Don’t forget the water – if possible, make sure you have some kind of fresh water source outside, especially if the temperatures are above the freezing point. 

This craft tutorial is provided by fellow outdoor adventurist Dora Pista. Interested in writing for us? Read how to travel write for us here.