Bird Feeders Kids Can Make: Fun Projects for Backyard Birds
Bird feeders kids can make are more than just a fun craft project – they’re a gateway to a world of wonder and learning. Imagine your child’s eyes light up as they watch a colorful cardinal flitting to their homemade feeder, or the thrill of spotting a curious chickadee pecking at seeds they helped create.
Beyond the entertainment, birdwatching teaches children about nature, responsibility, and the importance of caring for our feathered friends. From simple cardboard creations to more intricate designs, there’s a bird feeder project for every skill level and imagination.
This guide will explore a variety of bird feeder designs, each with step-by-step instructions and tips for success. We’ll delve into the best types of bird food to attract different species, and discuss the importance of proper placement and maintenance to keep your feeder healthy and bird-friendly.
So, gather your supplies, grab your little helpers, and let’s get started building bird feeders that will bring joy to your backyard and a closer connection to the natural world.
Building Bird Feeders for Kids: Bird Feeders Kids Can Make
Want to bring the beauty of nature closer to your home and have a blast doing it? Building bird feeders is a fantastic activity for kids, combining fun with learning about our feathered friends! Birdwatching is a wonderful way for children to connect with nature, learn about different species, and develop a sense of responsibility for wildlife.
Building bird feeders with kids is a fun and educational activity that brings nature closer. You can use recycled materials like plastic bottles or cardboard to create unique designs. While you’re busy crafting, have you ever crashed someone’s cell phone call have you ever crashed someones cell phone call by accident?
It’s a funny memory to share with the kids, especially if it happened while you were busy creating your bird feeder masterpieces.
Plus, it’s a super fun activity that can keep them entertained for hours!
Types of Bird Feeders
There are many different types of bird feeders kids can create, each offering a unique way to attract different birds. Here are some popular options:
Easy-to-Make Bird Feeders
Building bird feeders is a fun and rewarding activity that can bring joy to both kids and adults. It’s a great way to connect with nature, learn about birds, and contribute to their well-being. The best part is that you can create beautiful and functional bird feeders using readily available materials found around your home.
Bird Feeders Using Cardboard
Cardboard is a versatile and readily available material for creating simple and effective bird feeders. Here are some easy-to-make designs:
| Feeder Type | Materials | Instructions | Image Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardboard Tube Feeder | Cardboard tube (from paper towels or wrapping paper), string, birdseed, peanut butter | 1. Cut a small hole near the top of the cardboard tube for string.
Building bird feeders with kids is a fun and educational activity that can spark their interest in nature. It’s also a great way to encourage family bonding, and a perfect opportunity to ask those thought-provoking family dinner questions while you’re all working together. After all, what better way to get your kids talking than over a shared project that brings the birds closer?
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A cardboard tube feeder is suspended from a branch with a string. The tube is covered in peanut butter and birdseed, attracting birds. |
| Cardboard Plate Feeder | Cardboard plate, string, birdseed, peanut butter | 1. Cut a small hole near the top of the cardboard plate for string.
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A cardboard plate is suspended from a branch with a string. The center of the plate has peanut butter and birdseed, attracting birds. |
Bird Feeders Using Plastic Bottles
Plastic bottles are another excellent choice for crafting bird feeders. They are durable, waterproof, and easy to repurpose.
| Feeder Type | Materials | Instructions | Image Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Bottle Feeder with Perches | Plastic bottle, string, birdseed, peanut butter, dowel rods (optional) | 1. Cut a large opening near the top of the plastic bottle.
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A plastic bottle is suspended from a branch with a string. The top of the bottle has been cut open and contains peanut butter and birdseed. Small holes on the sides of the bottle allow for string to be threaded through for hanging. The bottle may have dowel rods inserted to create perches for birds. |
| Plastic Bottle Feeder with Hanging Cups | Plastic bottle, string, birdseed, peanut butter, plastic cups | 1. Cut a large opening near the top of the plastic bottle.
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A plastic bottle is suspended from a branch with a string. The top of the bottle has been cut open and contains peanut butter and birdseed. Plastic cups without their bottoms are attached to the bottle with string, creating hanging feeding cups. |
Bird Feeders Using Pinecones, Bird feeders kids can make
Pinecones are a natural and beautiful material for making bird feeders. They provide a rustic look and a natural habitat for birds.
| Feeder Type | Materials | Instructions | Image Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pinecone Feeder with Peanut Butter | Pinecone, string, birdseed, peanut butter | 1. Spread peanut butter all over the pinecone.
Making bird feeders is a fun and educational activity for kids, teaching them about nature and responsibility. They can learn about different bird species, how to attract them, and the importance of providing food sources. Speaking of cute and unexpected friendships, check out this puppy has the cutest best friend , it’s sure to melt your heart! Back to bird feeders, kids can use recycled materials like plastic bottles, cardboard, or even pinecones to create their own unique feeders, adding a personal touch to their backyard wildlife haven.
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A pinecone is suspended from a branch with a string. The pinecone is covered in peanut butter and birdseed, attracting birds. |
| Pinecone Feeder with Suet | Pinecone, string, suet, birdseed | 1. Melt suet in a saucepan over low heat.
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A pinecone is suspended from a branch with a string. The pinecone is covered in suet and birdseed, attracting birds. |
Creative Bird Feeder Designs
Beyond basic designs, bird feeders can be transformed into captivating works of art, attracting birds while adding a touch of whimsy to your garden. You can use recycled materials, natural elements, and even artistic techniques to create feeders that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Bird Feeder Designs Using Recycled Materials
Recycled materials offer a sustainable and creative way to build bird feeders. These materials can be found around the house or at local recycling centers, making them budget-friendly and eco-conscious.
- Plastic Bottles:Cut a large opening near the top of a plastic bottle and create a perch using a twig or a small branch. Decorate the bottle with colorful paint, decoupage, or even natural elements like pine cones and twigs. You can even use a small plastic container for the food inside the bottle, making it easy to refill.
- Tin Cans:Clean and dry a tin can. Puncture holes near the top and bottom for string or wire to hang the feeder. Cut a small opening on the side of the can for birds to access the food. Decorate the can with colorful paint, stencils, or even mosaic tiles for a more intricate look.
- Egg Cartons:Use individual compartments of an egg carton to create a multi-feeder. Puncture a small hole in the bottom of each compartment and thread a string or wire through. Fill each compartment with birdseed and hang the carton from a tree branch.
You can paint the carton or decorate it with natural elements like leaves and twigs.
Choosing the Right Bird Food
Providing the right food is crucial for attracting a variety of birds to your feeder. Different birds have different dietary preferences, and offering a diverse selection can increase the chances of attracting a wider range of feathered friends.
Types of Bird Food
The types of bird food available are vast, and understanding the nutritional benefits and bird preferences can help you choose the best options for your backyard.
- Seeds: Seeds are a staple for many birds, providing a source of energy and essential nutrients.
- Sunflower Seeds: Popular among many birds, especially cardinals, chickadees, and finches. Black oil sunflower seeds are high in fat and calories, making them a great source of energy.
- Nyjer Seed: Tiny, black seeds that are a favorite of finches, goldfinches, and siskins. They are high in fat and protein.
- Safflower Seeds: A good alternative to sunflower seeds, safflower seeds are preferred by cardinals and goldfinches, while being less attractive to squirrels.
- Milo: A type of sorghum, milo is often used in birdseed mixes. While not as popular as sunflower seeds, it provides a source of carbohydrates and protein.
- Suet: Suet is a high-energy food made from rendered animal fat. It’s especially popular during winter when birds need extra calories to stay warm. Suet can attract woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, and other birds that prefer high-fat diets.
- Fruits: Many birds enjoy fresh or dried fruits.
- Apples: Attracts robins, bluebirds, and cedar waxwings.
- Oranges: A favorite of orioles, grosbeaks, and tanagers.
- Bananas: Relished by cardinals, grosbeaks, and tanagers.
- Grapes: Popular among robins, bluebirds, and cardinals.
- Nuts: Nuts provide protein and healthy fats.
- Peanuts: Attracts woodpeckers, chickadees, and jays.
Note: Whole peanuts should be offered in a feeder designed for larger nuts to prevent choking.
- Pecans: A favorite of woodpeckers, jays, and squirrels.
- Walnuts: Preferred by woodpeckers, jays, and squirrels.
- Peanuts: Attracts woodpeckers, chickadees, and jays.
- Mealworms: A great source of protein, mealworms are a favorite of bluebirds, robins, and wrens.
