Versatile and Functional – Wooden Bird Table Options

Feeding wild birds has long been a popular practice, and one of the most versatile, classic choices to make food available to local avian wildlife is the wooden bird table. While bird feeding has become widespread enough to have spawned a market that supplies endless versions of feeders and food to fill them, few are available with as broad an array of choices as that most basic of options.

Table-style bird feeders can be simple, wholly utilitarian objects that are inexpensive and place all their emphasis on function rather than a decorative appearance. These are easy to make as projects for the novice craftsman, excellent activities for families to complete together, and serve just as well to draw birds to a back garden as the most ornate of multi-level rival feeders. A typical table feeder consists of the table itself, the platform which holds the food; a roof of some sort, to keep out the weather and provide protection from sparrowhawks; and supports for the roof.

Other versions of bird tables serve as decorative objects in addition to drawing and supporting local wildlife. In appearance they can be rustic or modern, as adorned with delicate scroll-work as a cuckoo clock or fashioned with the simple cosiness of a country inn. Their roofs can be slate or wood, shingled or carved. Some allow the natural beauty of the wood to speak for itself, unaltered save for weatherproofing treatment. Tables with gazebo-styled tops can be especially attractive, pleasing the eye even without feathered visitors.

The versatility of these feeders continues in their method of placement; they can be supported by a sturdy post, affixed to a wall, situated on a fence, arranged at a window ledge, or hung from a convenient tree limb. Some simple precautions in mounting can help prevent problems with hunting cats or squirrels intent on feasting. If a post is used for mounting, the more difficult to install but safer choice is to use one of metal. To make wooden posts safer, after securing the base, slip a section of plastic drain pipe over them to prevent claws from finding purchase. When hanging a table, use light chain rather than lines which be severed by gnawing squirrels.

While maintenance of a bird table might seem as easy as pouring new food onto the platform whenever the current supply gets low, a little more care is required for the health and well-being of feathered diners. When old food is allowed to accumulate, the build-up can allow dangerous bacteria to build up and spread from sick birds to the healthy population. This can be avoided by brushing the debris from the table each time new food is added, as well as periodic cleaning with a mild disinfectant. This scrubbing should occur every couple of months, with more frequent treatments if sick birds frequent the table.

A wooden bird table can be found to fit the style of any house and garden. The colour and song of wild birds can be drawn to enliven a home with the most basic of tables and sunflower seeds as easily as with an object of art that doubles as a feeder. With a little care and these supplies, both the lives of resident people and birds can benefit.