Making a bird feeder is a lovely craft that connects children with nature right outside their window. Using simple materials—many of which can be found around the house—you can create a homemade feeder that invites birds to stop by for a snack.
This activity helps kids learn about local bird species, encourages empathy for animals, and promotes sustainability by reusing everyday items. Plus, watching the birds return day after day is its own kind of magic.
Materials Needed
- Bird seed mix
- Natural peanut butter or lard (unsalted)
- String or twine
- Feeder base ideas: toilet roll tube, pinecone, empty yoghurt pot, apple core, or orange rind
Tools Needed
- Butter knife or spoon
- Tray or plate for rolling in seed
Steps
- Choose Your Base
Pick an item like a pinecone, toilet roll, or halved orange rind to build on. - Attach String
Tie string or twine through or around the feeder to make a loop for hanging. - Add the Fat
Spread peanut butter or lard all over the surface using a spoon or butter knife. - Coat with Seed
Roll the sticky base in a tray of bird seed until it’s fully covered. - Hang and Watch
Choose a quiet spot—like a tree branch or balcony—and hang the feeder up high.
Variations
- Apple Ring Feeder: Slice an apple, coat in seed, and hang like a natural doughnut.
- Recycled Cup Feeder: Fill a yoghurt pot with fat and seed mix, then hang it upside down from a string.
- Decorate It: Use paper, twigs or stickers (on dry items) to give your feeder character.
- Birdwatching Log: Keep a simple notebook to record what birds visit each day.
