WHICH HOMEMADE BIRD FEEDER TO BUILD

• Post Bird Feeder You would build a post bird feeder if your garden lacked a suitable tree or high spot. You may even choose a post one if you wanted a focal point in your garden to revolve around the birds that come and visit or you may prefer a post bird feeder so that you can naturalise it in your garden amongst the plants.
  


• Hanging Bird Feeder You may decide to build a hanging bird feeder if you have predators such as cats (or children, dogs, possums etc) lurking in your garden. You will need to find a suitable tree that is capable of supporting the birds that will come and visit, the bird feeder and the bird feed.
  


• Running Line Bird Feeder A bird feeder (or feeders) attached to a running line and strung between a tree and the roof of your balcony may be a great option for those who don't want to spend to much time having to replenish the food in their feeders. As long as the rope is able to support the weight you may be able to hold a few different types
  


• Ground Level Bird Feeder You would only have this type of bird feeder if you are confident that the birds that come and feed there aren't going to be the dinner of some predator. If you're sure this the case then it may be a good way for you feed your birds. Some birds, like finches, tend to prefer eating from the ground anyway and you may often find them picking up the spillages from hanging bird feeders.
  

HOW TO BUILD A HOMEMADE BIRD FEEDER

There's a great book available for the DIY'er who wants to build their own bird feeder - 65 Birdhouses and Bird Feeders - (aff.). It will even give you some great designs on how to build a birdhouse to attract certain birds.

However, not all bird feeders will be appropriate for the birds in your region. Some homemade bird feeders can be extremely ornate while others are just a suspended plank of wood with a few nails in them to hold some fruit. Check out some of Kerri's designs.