How to Build a Squirrel Feeder Jar

A squirrel feeder is a way to attract more wildlife to your backyard or private garden. It's simple to make and will bring squirrels. Not only will it attract these adorable creatures, it will keep them from going after the birds in your bird feeders.

Cut the following pieces from one end of the board: one 3-inch long piece, two 8-inch long pieces, one 17 1/4-inch long piece, and two 16-inch long pieces.

Trace half the circumference of your jar onto the end of your 3-inch piece to make a half circle. Cut out the half circle using a saber saw. Turn it upside down and make sure the jar can fit in the groove snugly.

Mount the 3-inch piece 3 inches from the end of the 16-inch board. At the edge of the base, attach the half circle you cut from the 3-inch piece so it can stop the end of the jar from sliding off. Use deck screws to attach the pieces.

Mark the 17 1/4-inch-long piece at 9 1/4 inches from the end of the right side. Mark the same distance from the top corner of the left side down. Connect the two marks with a ruler, and cut the boards apart at this angle. They should be identical.

Measure 3 inches from the bottom of the other 16-inch piece and screw the first 16-inch piece onto it. They should make an L-shape with some extra space at the bottom.

Carve a 3-inch hole -- about 3 inches from the top and centered -- in each of the two 9 1/4-inch pieces that you cut at an angle. Screw them where the base and back meet, lining them up with the edges to form the sides of your feeder.

Determine the circumference of the body of your jar and cut a hole this size in one of your 8-inch pieces. Attach this piece to the front of the two sides you just attached.

Screw or use wood glue to attach the last 8-inch piece on top of the sides to form the roof. It should butt up against the back of the feeder, but should still overhang the sides.

Fill the jar with food and place it into the hole, using the semi-circle at the end to keep it from sliding. Screw the feeder onto the trunk of a tree where you commonly see squirrels and refill it as needed.