Easy & Eco Friendly DIY Bird Feeders
Are you looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids? How about creating some easy bird feeders together? Not only is this a great way to connect with nature and learn about the birds in your area, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity for some messy, hands-on fun.
What do I need to make this?
To make easy bird feeders, you will need a few simple supplies that you probably already have around the house. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A pinecone or cardboard tube
- Some string or twine
- Peanut butter
- Birdseed
- A plate or shallow dish
- Scissors
- Optional: dried fruit, nuts, or other bird-friendly snacks
Setting up
Once you have gathered your supplies, it’s time to set up your bird feeder-making station. Choose a spot in your garden or on your balcony where you can hang your feeder once it’s ready. Lay out your supplies on a plate or shallow dish, and make sure you have some paper towels or a wet cloth handy for any messy fingers.
Instructions
Making bird feeders is a fun and messy activity that your kids will love. Here are the basic steps to follow:
- Tie a piece of string or twine around the top of your pinecone or cardboard tube, leaving a long tail for hanging.
- Spread peanut butter all over your pinecone or cardboard tube, making sure to cover all the nooks and crannies.
- Roll your pinecone or cardboard tube in birdseed, pressing gently to make sure the seeds stick.
- If you like, you can also add some dried fruit, nuts, or other bird-friendly snacks to your feeder.
- Hang your feeder in a tree or from a hook, and wait for the birds to come!
Variations
Once you have mastered the basic bird feeder recipe, you can experiment with different shapes and sizes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Use a cookie cutter to make shaped bird feeders, like hearts or stars.
- Create a birdseed wreath by pressing birdseed into a bundt pan and hanging it up once it’s dry.
- Make a birdseed garland by threading seed-covered cereal or fruit loops onto a piece of twine.
Tips for Success
- Use natural peanut butter that doesn’t contain added salt or sugar. Birds have sensitive stomachs and can’t tolerate high levels of sodium or artificial sweeteners.
- Hang your bird feeder away from your house or any bird feeders your neighbours may have. This will help prevent fights over food and keep your feathered friends safe.
- Keep your feeder well-stocked with fresh seed, and clean it regularly to prevent the spread of disease.
Conclusion
Making easy DIY bird feeders with your kids is a fun and educational activity that will help them connect with nature and learn about the birds that share our world.
By following our simple guide, you can create a beautiful and bird-friendly feeding station that will attract all kinds of feathered visitors to your garden or balcony. So grab your supplies and get ready to make some new friends!