Outdoor Living & Lifestyles - Building a birdfeeder's seed catcher

I have had problems with all my birdfeeders. The birds that come to my feeders will push out some of the seeds they don't want and the seed will start growing in my flower gardens. Is there a simple way to make a "Seed Catcher"? I have hanging feeders and want to make a seed catcher for each one. I love having the birds in my garden but HATE the mess. I've look on the internet but can't find anything. Please help if you can. Thanks, Andi

I've found that it's best to use the shelled sunflower seeds. You can't get them in a pet store or big box store. You will have to get them from a bird speciality store. Sometimes they are called sunflower hearts. Most of the mixes that are sold don't contain seed that all birds like and that is why the push aside the seed they don't want.

I have no idea how to make a seed catcher other then to use fiberglass screen and find a way to attach it so it's suspended under the feeders so it catches the unwanted seed. You would need to clean it out every week or the seed will grow mold and make the birds sick.

Newt

If you can find a way to attach it, the heavy plastic plant saucers will work. You may need to drill a hole or similar. The large heavy saucers aren't cheap though..$8-10 IIRC.