A publication of the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives

Home and Garden
Home | Home and Garden | If You Build It, They Will Come
If You Build It, They Will Come

Making a window feeder for home birdwatching

August 2024

content courtesy of StatePoint Media

Very few things are more relaxing than the fantastic sight and sound of birds. A 2022 study even uncovered profound mental health benefits to birdwatching, including stress relief. But how do you bring some of this outdoor zen to your kitchen or living room? The answer is simple: a DIY window bird feeder.

“With a window bird feeder, you’ll create a fascinating view of feathered friends going about their daily routines, great educational opportunities, family bonding moments and even a little fun for your indoor pets,” says Jamie Briggs, director of marketing at Exmark, a leading manufacturer of lawn care equipment.

Below are the tools, materials and basic instructions needed for this weekend project:

  • Drill
  • Jigsaw
  • Miter saw
  • Speed square
  • Brad nailer
  • Sandpaper
  • Tape measure
  • Wood glue
  • Pencil, paint brush
  • Paint or preconditioner and stain, sealer
  • Ear and eye protection
  • Dust mask
  • 1-1 1/2-inch brad nails
  • (4) suction cups
  • Landscape fabric (optional)
  • (1) 1-inch x 8-inch x 3-foot pine board
  • (2) 1-inch x 4-inch x 3-foot pine boards
  • (1) 1-inch x 2-inch x 3-foot pine board

DIY INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Cut boards to length according to the cut list, which is downloadable at backyard.exmark.com, along with printable step-by-step illustrations.
  2. Measure the angles to form the roof peak.
  3. Trace a window shape in board A and use a jigsaw to cut out the window hole.
  4. Secure the tray using brad nails. Use wood glue along the seams.
  5. Attach the roof boards using nails and glue.
  6. Drill holes that match the diameter and depth of the suction cups. Fill them with glue and insert the suction cups.
  7. Sand the feeder’s edges.
  8. Apply paint or preconditioner and stain of your choice. Finish off with a sealer.
  9. Line the interior of the tray with landscape fabric.

“Now all there’s left to do is pick out the perfect window, hang your new DIY bird feeder, and enjoy all the sights and sounds our avian friends have to offer,” Briggs says.