Feed the Furry Acrobats: DIY Squirrel Feeder Ideas

If you enjoy the lively display of squirrels in your yard, building a DIY squirrel feeder can not only bring joy and engagement to your family but also offer a reliable food source for these creatures.

There are various creative and adaptable feeder ideas, such as a wooden feeder with a glass jar fixture, a corncob feeder with buckets, or a cedar fence board feeder with jar support. The essence is to craft a sturdy feeder that can endure the squirrels’ weight and safeguard the food from the elements.

By investing a touch of creativity and effort, you can foster a year-round squirrel attraction in your yard, providing them nourishment while relishing their playful antics and keep them away from bird feeders!

Understanding Squirrels and Their Diet

Feeding squirrels can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do squirrels provide entertainment and enjoyment, but they also play an important role in the ecosystem. Squirrels help to disperse seeds and nuts, which helps to grow new plants and trees.

Squirrels can also be helpful in controlling insect populations. Squirrels are known to eat insects such as caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers. By feeding squirrels, you are helping to support a healthy ecosystem in your backyard.

Squirrel Diet Essentials

Squirrels are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. Their diet primarily consists of nuts, seeds, and fruits. Some of the most common foods that squirrels eat include:

• Nuts: Squirrels love nuts, especially acorns, walnuts, and pecans. You can provide nuts to squirrels by hanging a squirrel feeder in your backyard.
• Seeds: Squirrels also enjoy seeds such as sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and birdseed. You can provide seeds to squirrels by scattering them on the ground or by using a squirrel feeder.
• Peanuts: Peanuts are a great source of protein for squirrels. You can provide peanuts to squirrels by placing them in a squirrel feeder or by scattering them on the ground.
• Dried corn: Squirrels love dried corn, especially cracked corn. You can provide dried corn to squirrels by scattering it on the ground or by using a squirrel feeder.
• Fruits: Squirrels enjoy fruits such as apples, pears, and berries. You can provide fruits to squirrels by placing them in a squirrel feeder or by scattering them on the ground.

It is important to note that while squirrels enjoy a variety of foods, their diet should be balanced and nutritious. Avoid feeding squirrels junk food or foods that are high in sugar or salt. Instead, provide a variety of healthy foods to ensure that squirrels are getting the nutrients they need to thrive.

Have a seperate squirrel feeding area should help to keep the squirrels away from your bird feeder. Backyard bird feeders can become a haven for your furry friends which can be problematic for the birds. By given them there very own feeder to feed squirrels, you can love squirrels without worrying about your bird population.

Best Squirrel Feeder to Purchase

Materials Needed for DIY Squirrel Feeders

If you’re interested in building a squirrel feeder, you’ll need a few materials to get started. Some of the materials you may already have on hand, while others you may need to purchase from a hardware store or online. Here are some materials you’ll need for DIY squirrel feeders:

• Drill: A drill is a necessary tool for most squirrel feeder projects. You’ll use it to make holes for screws, attach hooks, and create openings for the squirrels to access the food.
• Mason Jar: A mason jar can be repurposed as a squirrel feeder. You can attach it to a piece of wood or hang it from a tree branch with wire. Fill the jar with nuts, seeds, or corn for the squirrels to enjoy.
• Wire: Wire can be used to hang squirrel feeders from trees or to create a mesh basket for holding food. You can also use wire to attach a mason jar to a piece of wood.
• PVC Pipe: PVC pipe can be used to create a squirrel feeder that holds corn on the cob. Cut the pipe into sections, drill holes in it, and insert the corn.
• Piece of Wood: A piece of wood is a versatile material that can be used to create a variety of squirrel feeders. You can attach a mason jar, milk jug, or plastic bottle to a piece of wood, or use it to create a platform for the squirrels to access the food.
• Glass Jar: A glass jar can be used as a squirrel feeder, similar to a mason jar. Attach it to a piece of wood or hang it from a tree branch with wire. Fill the jar with nuts, seeds, or corn for the squirrels to enjoy.
• Milk Jug or Plastic Bottle: A milk jug or plastic bottle can be repurposed as a squirrel feeder. Cut a hole in the side of the jug or bottle, fill it with food, and attach it to a piece of wood or hang it from a tree branch.
• Long Screw: A long screw can be used to attach a mason jar, milk jug, or plastic bottle to a piece of wood. Drill a hole in the center of the jar lid or bottle cap, and then screw the lid or cap onto the wood.
• Cedar Fence Board: A cedar fence board can be used to create a simple squirrel feeder. Cut the board into sections, drill holes in it, and attach hooks for hanging food.

Keep in mind that some squirrel feeder projects may require woodworking skills or tools beyond a drill, such as a saw or sander. However, many squirrel feeders can be made with basic woodworking projects and a few simple materials.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make a Squirrel Feeder

If you’re a fan of squirrels and want to attract them to your yard, building a squirrel feeder is a great idea. With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can build a variety of squirrel feeders that will keep these furry creatures well-fed and happy. Here are some step-by-step instructions for building different types of DIY feeder for squirrels.

Mason Jar Squirrel Feeder

Mason jar squirrel feeders are simple to make and require only a few materials. You’ll need a mason jar, a piece of wood, a screw, and a metal hose clamp. Here’s how to make one:

1. Attach the metal hose clamp to the piece of wood using the screw.
2. Place the mason jar inside the hose clamp and tighten it.
3. Fill the jar with squirrel food and hang it from a tree branch or other suitable location.

Milk Jug Squirrel Feeder

Milk jug squirrel feeders are another easy DIY project. You’ll need a clean milk jug, a piece of wood, a screw, and some string. Here’s how to make one:

1. Attach the piece of wood to the bottom of the milk jug using the screw.
2. Poke two holes in the top of the jug and tie a piece of string through them.
3. Fill the jug with squirrel food and hang it from a tree branch or other suitable location.

PVC Pipe Squirrel Feeder

A PVC pipe squirrel feeder is a bit more complicated to make, but it’s still a fun project. You’ll need a piece of PVC pipe, some end caps, a T-joint, and some nuts and bolts. Here’s how to make one:

1. Cut the PVC pipe to the desired length.
2. Attach the end caps and T-joint to the pipe using nuts and bolts.
3. Fill the pipe with squirrel food and hang it from a tree branch or other suitable location.

Pine Cone Squirrel Feeder

A pine cone squirrel feeder is a natural and eco-friendly option. You’ll need a large pine cone, some peanut butter, and some birdseed. Here’s how to make one:

1. Spread peanut butter all over the pine cone.
2. Roll the pine cone in birdseed.
3. Tie a piece of string around the top of the pine cone and hang it from a tree branch or other suitable location.

Unique Squirrel Feeder

If you’re feeling creative, you can build a unique squirrel feeder using whatever materials you have on hand. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Use an old teapot or kettle as a feeder.
• Build a squirrel picnic table with mini benches and a table.
• Make a squirrel swing using a piece of wood and some rope.

DIY Squirrel Table Feeder

A DIY squirrel table feeder is a great option if you want to attract multiple squirrels at once. You’ll need a piece of wood, some screws, and some brackets. Here’s how to make one:

1. Screw the brackets onto the bottom of the piece of wood.
2. Attach the wood to a tree trunk or other suitable location using the brackets.
3. Fill the table with squirrel food.

Squirrel Chair Feeder

A squirrel chair feeder is a fun and unique option. You’ll need a small chair, some screws, and some brackets. Here’s how to make one:

1. Screw the brackets onto the bottom of the chair.
2. Attach the chair to a tree trunk or other suitable location using the brackets.
3. Fill the seat of the chair with squirrel food.

Tree Limb Squirrel Feeder

A tree limb squirrel feeder is a natural and rustic option. You’ll need a sturdy tree limb, some screws, and some brackets. Here’s how to make one:

1. Screw the brackets onto the bottom of the tree limb.
2. Attach the limb to a tree trunk or other suitable location using the brackets.
3. Fill the limb with squirrel food.

Platform Squirrel Feeder

A platform squirrel feeder is a great option if you want to attract multiple squirrels at once. You’ll need a piece of wood, some screws, and some brackets. Here’s how to make one:

1. Screw the brackets onto the bottom of the piece of wood.
2. Attach the wood to a tree trunk or other suitable location using the brackets.
3. Fill the platform with squirrel food.

Wine Bottle Squirrel Feeder

A wine bottle squirrel feeder is a unique and eco-friendly option. You’ll need a wine bottle, some wire, and some nuts and bolts. Here’s how to make one:

1. Wrap the wire around the neck of the wine bottle.
2. Attach the wire to a tree branch or other suitable location using nuts and bolts.
3. Fill the bottle with squirrel food.

Squirrel Feeder Themes and Designs

If you’re looking to attract squirrels to your backyard, offering them a variety of feeder designs and themes can be a fun and effective way to do so. Here are some popular squirrel feeder themes and designs that you can try out:

Squirrel Picnic Table

One of the most common squirrel feeder designs is the picnic table. This feeder is typically made of wood and has a flat surface where squirrels can sit and eat. You can make your own squirrel picnic table feeder using a variety of materials, including wood, PVC pipe, or even recycled materials. Just be sure to place the feeder in a safe and secure location to prevent it from tipping over or falling.

Windmill Squirrel Feeder

Another popular squirrel feeder design is the windmill feeder. This feeder is shaped like a windmill and has several compartments where you can place nuts or other treats for squirrels. The windmill design adds a fun and whimsical touch to your backyard, and the spinning blades can also help keep squirrels entertained.

Saloon Squirrel Feeder

For a more western-themed squirrel feeder, you can try the saloon feeder design. This feeder is typically made of wood and has a small door that opens up to reveal a feeding compartment. The saloon design adds a rustic and charming touch to your backyard, and the small size of the feeder can help prevent larger animals from stealing the squirrel’s food.

Platform Squirrel Feeder

If you want a more minimalist squirrel feeder design, you can try the platform feeder. This feeder is simply a flat platform where you can place nuts or other treats for squirrels. The platform design is easy to make and can be customized to fit your backyard decor.

Squirrel Train Feeder

For a unique and playful squirrel feeder design, you can try the train feeder. This feeder is typically made of wood and has several compartments shaped like train cars. You can place nuts or other treats in each compartment, and the squirrels can hop from car to car to get their food. The train design adds a fun and whimsical touch to your backyard, and the small size of the feeder can help prevent larger animals from stealing the squirrel’s food.

Keeping Your Squirrel Feeder Stocked

If you’ve decided to set up a squirrel feeder in your yard, you’ll want to make sure you keep it stocked with the right foods to keep your bushy-tailed friends coming back for more. Here are some tips on what to stock and how often to refill.

Best Foods to Stock

Squirrels are omnivorous, which means they eat a variety of foods. Here are some of the best foods to stock in your squirrel feeder:

• Nuts: Squirrels love nuts, especially peanuts. You can also try almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts.
• Seeds: Sunflower seeds are a favorite of squirrels. You can also try pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds.
• Fruits: Squirrels enjoy fruits like apples, pears, and grapes. You can also try berries like strawberries and blueberries.
• Vegetables: Squirrels will also eat vegetables like corn, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

How Often to Refill

How often you need to refill your squirrel feeder will depend on how many squirrels are visiting and how much they’re eating. As a general rule, you should check your feeder every day or two and refill it as needed. If you notice that the food is disappearing quickly, you may need to refill it more often.

It’s important to keep your feeder clean and free of mold and bacteria. If you notice any mold or mildew on the food, remove it immediately and clean the feeder thoroughly before refilling it.

Placement of Squirrel Feeder

When deciding on a location for your squirrel feeder, safety and accessibility should be your primary considerations. Suitable locations for these bold critters include fences, where the feeder can be securely attached, and gardens, where the feeder can be placed on a sturdy pole or suspended from a tree branch. Backyard trees are also a good option for hanging the feeder, keeping it elevated from the ground and away from predators.

Alternatively, a squirrel house on a cute table can be used to provide added protection from the weather and potential threats such as other animals. Regardless of the chosen location, ensure the feeder is at least 8 feet away from any structures or trees that could be used as jumping-off points for squirrels, and avoid positioning it near plants vulnerable to damage from squirrel activity.