bird feeder

**blaneypark** · 01-27-2003, 02:00 PM

I have been asked by a neighbor to make a bird feeder. What type of wood would you recommend using? And if a finish if required, what would be safe for the birds?

**JohnP** · 01-27-2003, 02:58 PM

cedar or red wood would be the best. no finish. i make about a 100 bird feeders each year for local school programs and in my opion cedar works best.
JohnP

**TheWoodWizard** · 01-28-2003, 09:26 AM

Here is a free plan,just in case you are looking for one.
http://www.am-wood.com/oct97/bird.html

**Donna in TN** · 01-28-2003, 04:01 PM

I used cypress for some outdoor planters - I think you may probably be able to use it for the feeders, also. I would not use any finish.

Donna
SheSaws

**PurpleHeart** · 01-29-2003, 12:37 PM

LAST EDITED ON Jan-29-03 AT 01:40PM (CDT)

I would agree with the previous posts. I have used cypress with success. It's fairly affordable, easy to work, and requires very little care. Best of all it hold up to the elements. I too would avoid finishes. It is also helpful to keep the inside of the box rough to allow young birds a means of gripping the sides. Good luck.

I tend to like using cedar shingles for the roof. They can be purchased in bundles at retailers such as Home Depot. When layered they provide a nice visual accent.

PurpleHeart