Quick Answers
Metal can absolutely be used to make bird feeders. The most common metals used are steel, aluminum, and copper. Steel is durable and inexpensive. Aluminum is lightweight, resistant to rust, and easy to work with. Copper has antimicrobial properties. The metal can be shaped into a variety of bird feeder designs like hopper feeders, tube feeders, or platform feeders.
When using metal, it’s important to ensure there are no sharp edges that could harm birds. The feeder should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected regularly to prevent disease. Consider adding powder coating or paint to prevent corrosion. Place the feeder in a sheltered location and avoid placing metal feeders in direct sunlight during hot summer months where the metal could overheat.
Advantages of Metal Bird Feeders
Using metal for bird feeders has several advantages:
Durability
Metal is extremely durable and can withstand years of exposure to the elements. It will not degrade or decompose like wood, crack like clay, or become brittle like plastic. Properly maintained metal feeders can last decades.
Strength
Metal is sturdy and rigid. It can support more weight than other materials without sagging, bending, or breaking. This allows metal feeders to be designed larger to hold more birdseed.
Pest Resistance
Thick metal deters squirrels and other mammals from chewing through it. The slick surface and lack of gripping edges also make climbing difficult. Aluminum and steel can withstand gnawing better than softer materials.
Customizable
Metal is easy to bend, cut, weld, and otherwise customize to create unique bird feeder designs that are works of art. Fromlaser-cut silhouettes to hand-scrolled details, metal allows for creative customization.
Rust Resistance
When properly treated and maintained, many metals strongly resist rusting and corrosion. Aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, and powder-coated metals can maintain their shiny appearance for years in outdoor environments.
Disadvantages of Metal Bird Feeders
Using metal does have some downsides to consider:
Cost
The initial purchase price of metal feeders tends to be higher than plastic or wood. However, their longevity helps offset the higher cost over time.
Cold Temperature
In winter, bare metal will conduct cold readily. This can freeze wet birdseed and spillage or harm small bird feet through direct contact. Insulating with non-conductive materials can help.
Rusting Risk
Untreated steel or iron feeders will eventually show signs of rust and corrosion without proper maintenance. Choosing rust-resistant metals minimizes this.
Sharp Edges
Exposed rough metal edges pose risks of cuts to people installing the feeder or birds rubbing against it. Filing and sanding smooth is important.
Heating in Summer
Dark metals like steel can absorb heat. In hot climates, this could lead to rancid birdseed or burning bird feet. Light-colored metals or shaded placement reduces this.
Best Metals for Bird Feeders
If you want to make a metal bird feeder, these are the best metal options to choose:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance while also being strong and durable. Brushed stainless or painted stainless are good choices. It can develop small rust spots if scratched that require sanding and touch-up. Stainless has good cold weather performance.
Aluminum
Aluminum is lightweight, rust-proof, easy to work with, and conducts heat poorly. Anodized aluminum resists scratches and wear. Recycled aluminum is environmentally friendly. The softness requires slightly thicker gauges than steel.
Copper
Copper has natural antimicrobial properties to inhibit bacteria and viruses. It develops a patina finish over time. Softness similar to aluminum may require reinforcement in high-stress areas. Being non-magnetic, copper discourages sticking bird droppings.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel has a zinc coating that provides excellent corrosion resistance. It is strong and inexpensive. Exposure to saltwater or abrasion can wear off the coating. Galvanized steel can release small amounts of zinc into the environment.
| Metal | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | Durable, strong, corrosion resistant, cold weather performance | Expensive, can rust if scratched |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, rustproof, good heat conduction | Dents easily, soft |
| Copper | Antimicrobial, develops protective patina | Expensive, soft |
| Galvanized Steel | Inexpensive, good corrosion resistance | Coating can wear off, releases zinc |
Best Shape of Metal Bird Feeder
Metal can be bent, cut, and welded into all kinds of creative shapes for bird feeders. But some classic designs work especially well:
Hopper Feeder
Hopper feeders have sloped sides leading down to feeding ports. The overhang keeps seed dry. Volume holds lots of seed. Easy to refill through hatches. Squirrel baffles deter mammals.
Tube Feeder
Long hollow metal tubes with built-in perches are simple and effective. Protective caps prevent rain getting in. Good visibility of birds. Easy to clean and fill. Multiple feeding ports allow multiple birds.
Platform Feeder
Simple flat platforms or trays allow easy access for many birds at once. Drainage holes prevent pooling. Removable mesh bottoms sift out hulls and debris. Low profile provides good visibility.
Suet Feeder
Suet feeders have wire cages to hold suet cakes for birds to cling onto. Simple box or mesh styles. Can add roofs for shelter. Easy to refill and clean. Hang or mount to trees.
Conclusion
Metal makes an excellent material choice for bird feeders. When properly selected for the environment and cared for over time, a metal bird feeder can provide many years of enjoyment watching birds visit your backyard. Go for durable stainless steel, lightweight aluminum, antimicrobial copper, or corrosion-resistant galvanized steel to create your ideal metal bird feeding station. Ensure smooth edges, proper drainage, and weather-appropriate placement to keep your feathered friends happy, healthy, and returning for daily feedings. With the right metal bird feeder design, you can experience the beauty of nature right outside your window.
