How to build your own squirrel proof bird feeder support

If you are dedicated to feeding wild birds here is all you need to make a simple dual bird feeder. We have watched mum or dad chickadee feed themselves and then fly to the “cross beam” and feed baby chickadees. This support is so simple to make and the birds seem safe and enjoy it as well. It does not need to be elaborate or expensive and no drilling required.

Materials required

• 8 foot length – 2” galvanized steel pipe and cap (normally used as post for chain link fencing)
• 4 ft cedar 1 x 2” cross beam
• "U" bolt to fasten beam to post
• Two screws (to attach bird feeders to cross beam)

Total Cost : less than $C20 (less if recycled materials used)

Equipment required

• Drill ( for fastening U bolt and two screws)
• Wrench to tighten bolts

Bird Feeder Support Directions

• Screw in hooks at either either of cross beam for hanging feeders
• Find centre of cross beam and drill two holes to fasten U bolt
• Attach cross beam to top of galvanized pipe
• Dig hole in ground to depth of one foot
• Place post in hole and fill firmly with gravel and soil
• If required, use a concrete deck post support for more sturdy support

We have successfully used our cherry tree branches as bird feeder supports for the past four years but during the last month we have had two very aggressive squirrels who have systematically knocked, broken and pulled feeders to the ground. We cannot believe they have not hurt themselves by continuously flying at the suspended feeders, tipping out seed as well as falling themselves.

Notes

• Days after putting up our new feeder pole we had at least one family of chickadees entertain us while learning to fly and one baby chickadee landed on my husband's capped head for a rest.  Wonderful!
• The suet feeder has been visited by a young pileated woodpecker and parent - incredible sight
• Our next option, if required, will be to buy a longer post which will probably require more support
• We wanted to recycle our non squirrel proof feeders hence the new support and not squirrel proof bird feeders which currently cost $35 to $70C each
• There are commercially available bird feeder poles but they are usually not as sturdy and are much more expensive
• This bird feeder pole (or perhaps the taller version) would probably work to deter raccoon and deer if the pole support was more firmly secured
• Closing note:  the suet feeder had to be lowered as the local crows thought the perch was a great idea
• Summer 2013 update: Caution is recommended if you live in an area frequented by bears, perhaps your bird feeders should be removed during summer months for safety reasons. Of the 300 bear incidents reported in Abbotsford this year half were related to bears (and cubs) at bird feeders.