How to make a bird seed catcher tray
Birds can be a delightful addition to any outdoor space, bringing life and color with their songs and fluttering wings. However, one downside of attracting birds to your garden is the mess they can leave behind. Bird seed scattered about can invite pests and create a slippery surface. That’s where a bird seed catcher tray comes in handy.
Not only does a bird seed catcher tray help contain the mess and keep your yard clean, it also provides an additional feeding platform for your feathered friends. You can easily make your own bird seed catcher tray using simple materials and a few tools.
First, gather the necessary materials, including a wooden board, screws, and a mesh screen. Cut the wooden board to your desired size using a saw, keeping in mind the dimensions of your bird feeder. Then, attach the mesh screen to the top of the wooden board using screws. Make sure the mesh is securely fastened so that it doesn’t detach when birds land on it.
Gather the Necessary Materials
Before you start making a bird seed catcher tray, it is important to gather all the necessary materials. Here are the items you will need:
1. Plastic dish or tray
Select a plastic dish or tray that is shallow and wide enough to hold a sufficient amount of bird seeds. Make sure it is wide enough to catch any seeds that fall from the feeding area.
2. Wire or mesh
Choose a wire or mesh material that is sturdy and large enough to cover the opening of the dish or tray to create a barrier to catch the seeds. This will allow the birds to eat the seeds while preventing them from spilling over onto the ground.
3. Scissors or wire cutters
You will need a pair of scissors or wire cutters to trim and shape the wire or mesh material according to the size of the dish or tray. This will make it easier to attach the barrier securely without any excess material.
4. Zip ties or twist ties
Get some zip ties or twist ties that are long enough to secure the wire or mesh to the edges of the dish or tray. These will help keep the barrier in place and prevent it from coming loose or falling off.
5. Bird seeds
Purchase a good amount of bird seeds that are suitable for the types of birds you want to attract to your garden. You can find a variety of bird seeds available at your local pet store or garden center.
Once you have gathered all these materials, you will be ready to start making your own bird seed catcher tray. Ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions carefully to create a functional and effective bird seed catcher tray.
Build the Bird Seed Catcher Tray
To build the bird seed catcher tray, you’ll need the following materials:
- A wooden plank
- A ruler
- A pencil
- A saw
- Nails or screws
- A drill
1. Measure and mark the size of the desired tray on the wooden plank using the ruler and pencil. The tray should be large enough to fit under the bird feeder and capture falling seeds.
2. Cut the wooden plank according to the marked measurements using the saw. Make sure to follow safety precautions while using the saw.
3. Sand down the edges of the cut plank to ensure a smooth finish and to prevent any splinters.
4. Decide on the placement of your bird seed catcher tray. It should be positioned directly under the bird feeder so that it can catch the seeds. Mark the spots where you will attach the tray to the feeder pole or any other supporting structure.
5. Use the drill to create holes in the marked spots for attaching the tray. The size of the holes should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the nails or screws that you’ll be using.
6. Attach the bird seed catcher tray to the feeder pole or supporting structure using nails or screws. Make sure it is securely fixed and level to ensure proper catching of falling seeds.
Tips for Success
– Choose a larger sized tray to ensure it catches most of the falling seeds.
– Apply a suitable waterproof sealant or paint to the wooden tray to protect it from weather damage.
– Regularly clean the bird seed catcher tray to prevent the buildup of mold or bacteria.
– Consider positioning the tray at a lower height if you have ground-feeding birds visiting your bird feeder. This will make it easier for them to access the seeds.
Install and Use the Bird Seed Catcher Tray
Installing a bird seed catcher tray is a quick and easy process that can greatly reduce the mess around your bird feeder. Follow these simple steps to install the tray and enjoy a cleaner bird feed area.
Materials Needed:
- Bird seed catcher tray
- Mounting hardware (screws, hooks, etc.)
- Drill (if necessary)
Instructions:
1. Select a suitable location for the bird seed catcher tray. It should be positioned directly underneath your bird feeder to catch any fallen seeds.
2. Ensure that the surface where you plan to install the tray is clean and free of debris.
3. If your bird seed catcher tray comes with mounting holes, align them with the mounting surface and mark their positions with a pencil. If it does not have pre-drilled holes, use a drill to create small pilot holes for the screws.
4. Attach the tray to the mounting surface using the provided screws or other mounting hardware. Make sure it is securely fastened to prevent it from falling or shifting.
5. Once installed, assess the height of the tray to ensure it is positioned at a level where birds can easily access the seeds without feeling enclosed.
6. Fill your bird feeder with seed, ensuring that it is directly above the catcher tray. As birds eat from the feeder, any dropped seeds will be caught by the tray, reducing waste and mess.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
Regularly check the bird seed catcher tray for accumulated debris and clean it when necessary. This will prevent mold or bacteria growth and ensure a healthy feeding environment for your feathered friends.
| Troubleshooting | Solution |
|---|---|
| Tray swings or moves | Tighten the screws or adjust the mounting hardware to ensure a secure fit |
| Excessive overflow of seeds | Consider adjusting the height or angle of the bird seed catcher tray to minimize spillage |
| Birds avoiding the tray | Try positioning the tray closer to the bird feeder or placing a small amount of seed directly onto the tray to entice the birds |
By following these installation and usage tips, you can enjoy a cleaner and more enjoyable bird feeding experience with the help of a bird seed catcher tray.
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