Birds are not only beautiful to look at but also bring life and melody to our gardens. One of the best ways to attract them is by creating your own DIY bird feeders. Here are 15 creative and easy – to – make options.
1. Plastic Bottle Feeder
You’ll need an empty plastic bottle (like a 2 – liter soda bottle), a pair of scissors, and some wire or string. Cut two small holes on opposite sides of the bottle near the bottom for perching. Then, make a larger hole higher up for filling the birdseed. Poke a hole in the cap and thread the wire or string through it for hanging. Fill the bottle with birdseed and watch the birds come flocking.
2. Pinecone Feeder
Collect large pinecones from your yard or a nearby park. Tie a string around the top of the pinecone. Smear peanut butter all over the pinecone, making sure to get it in between the scales. Then, roll the pinecone in birdseed. Hang it from a tree branch, and the birds will have a delicious and challenging treat.
3. Milk Carton Feeder
Rinse out an empty milk carton. Cut a large rectangular opening on one side, leaving enough space at the top for hanging. Make a few small holes in the bottom for drainage. Fill the carton with birdseed and use string or wire to hang it in your garden. You can even decorate the carton with non – toxic paint to make it more appealing.
4. Log Feeder
Find a small log or thick branch. Use a drill to make several holes about an inch or two deep in the log. Fill these holes with birdseed. You can attach the log horizontally to a post or tree using wire or rope. This feeder is great for larger birds that need more substantial perching space.
5. Mason Jar Feeder
Take a mason jar and its lid. Drill a small hole in the center of the lid. Insert a wooden dowel or a small stick through the hole. Fill the jar with birdseed. Hang the jar by its lid using wire or string. The birds can perch on the dowel and peck at the seed through the opening.
6. Orange Half Feeder
Cut an orange in half and scoop out the fruit. Make two small holes on opposite sides of the orange peel near the top. Thread a string through the holes and tie it. Fill the orange half with a mixture of suet and birdseed. Hang it in your garden. The bright color of the orange will attract birds, and the suet provides much – needed energy.
7. Toilet Paper Roll Feeder
Flatten several toilet paper rolls. Cut small triangles on one side of each roll to make openings for the birds. Tie the rolls together with string or twine. Fill the rolls with birdseed and hang them from a branch. You can make a bunch of these to create a unique and colorful feeder display.
8. Gourd Feeder
If you grow gourds, dry them thoroughly. Cut a hole in the gourd large enough for birds to enter. Make a small hole at the top for hanging. Fill the gourd with birdseed. The natural shape of the gourd makes for an interesting and rustic – looking feeder.
9. Tin Can Feeder
Use an empty tin can (like a soup can). Make sure to remove any sharp edges. Punch holes around the top of the can for a wire to pass through for hanging. Make a small opening on the side for the birds. Fill the can with birdseed and decorate it with colorful paper or paint to make it more attractive.
10. Window Feeder
Cut a piece of clear plastic or Plexiglas to fit your window. Attach suction cups to the corners. Make a small tray out of cardboard or plastic and attach it to the bottom of the plastic piece. Fill the tray with birdseed. This feeder allows you to watch the birds up close from inside your house.
11. Hanging Basket Feeder
Take an old hanging basket. Line it with a piece of mesh or burlap. Fill the basket with birdseed and place some small branches or twigs inside for perching. Hang the basket in a tree or on a porch. The open design of the basket makes it accessible to many different types of birds.
12. CD Feeder
Use an old CD or DVD. Drill a small hole in the center. Thread a string through the hole and tie a knot. Spread peanut butter on the shiny side of the CD and sprinkle birdseed on it. Hang the CD in your garden. The reflective surface of the CD can also attract birds.
13. Wooden Box Feeder
Build a small wooden box with a sloping roof. Make a few small holes in the front for the birds to access. Fill the box with birdseed. You can paint the box or leave it natural. Place it on a post or hang it from a tree. This feeder provides shelter along with food.
14. Strawberry Basket Feeder
Reuse an old strawberry basket. Tie a string to the handle. Fill the basket with birdseed. The holes in the basket allow the birds to easily access the food. You can also add some additional perches if needed.
15. Recycled Cup Feeder
Take a few disposable plastic cups. Make a small hole in the bottom of each cup and connect them with a string or wire. Fill the cups with birdseed. Hang the string of cups in your garden. This is a great way to recycle old cups and create a unique feeder.
By making these DIY bird feeders, you can not only provide food for the birds but also add a charming and personalized touch to your garden. Different types of feeders will attract different species of birds, so you can enjoy a diverse range of beautiful feathered friends and their sweet songs.