Creating bird feeders at home is an enjoyable and educational activity that offers children a chance to connect with nature. By involving kids in crafting these feeders, they not only learn more about different bird species but also develop an appreciation for wildlife and the outdoors.
This type of activity provides a wonderful balance of fun and learning, perfect for a family project. How can you keep children entertained while also teaching them about the importance of wildlife conservation?
In this article, we will explore 20 DIY bird feeder ideas that are simple, creative, and suitable for kids of various ages. Each project promotes hands-on learning and creativity, making it an ideal way to inspire the next generation of bird enthusiasts.
Window Suction Cup Bird Feeder
A window suction cup bird feeder is an excellent idea for kids who want to observe birds up close. These feeders attach directly to windows using strong suction cups, providing a clear view of birds while they eat.
The feeders often come in clear acrylic, allowing kids to see every detail. They can attract a variety of birds, making them a fun and educational addition to any home. For more information, check the detailed reviews on different window feeder models here.
Pine Cone Peanut Butter Feeder
A Pine Cone Peanut Butter Feeder is a simple and effective bird feeder project for kids. To begin, cut a piece of string or twine about 8 to 10 inches long. Tie this securely around the top of the pine cone.
Next, spread peanut butter all over the pine cone. The sticky peanut butter will help the bird seeds adhere. Roll the peanut butter-coated pine cone in bird seeds, pressing gently to ensure the seeds stick.
Once the bird seeds cover the pine cone, it’s ready to be hung outside. This feeder is particularly attractive to birds and can teach kids about wildlife. For more details, you can visit Country Hill Cottage.
Milk Carton Bird Feeder
A milk carton bird feeder is an easy and fun project for kids. Start by cleaning an empty milk carton. Cut out a large section from one side, leaving a few inches at the bottom to hold birdseed. Decorate the carton with paint, markers, or stickers for a creative touch.
Next, poke a small hole below the opening and insert a dowel or sturdy stick to create a perch. This helps birds land and eat. Attach a string to the top for hanging. Fill with birdseed and hang it in a spot frequented by birds. For detailed instructions, check out this guide on milk carton bird feeders.
Recycled Plastic Bottle Feeder
Creating a recycled plastic bottle feeder is a great project for kids. It helps teach the importance of recycling while also being simple to make. All you need is an empty plastic bottle, some string, and a few other basic materials.
First, wash and dry the bottle. Cut a hole near the bottom wide enough for birds to access the seeds. Attach a perch just below the hole for birds to sit on while they eat.
This feeder is eco-friendly and can attract various birds. Check out more ideas from Easy Homemade DIY Bird Feeder Ideas. Such projects can help kids connect with nature.
DIY Cheerios Bird Feeder
Creating a DIY Cheerios bird feeder is a simple but effective activity for kids. This craft uses basic materials like Cheerios and pipe cleaners, making it accessible and fun.
Kids can thread Cheerios onto a pipe cleaner, which helps improve their fine motor skills. Twist the pipe cleaner into a shape, like a circle or heart, and add a loop for hanging.
This bird feeder is effective in attracting small birds. For more ideas on making Cheerios bird feeders, you can visit Red Ted Art.
Citrus Cup Feeder
A Citrus Cup Feeder combines natural beauty with functionality. To make this feeder, cut an orange or grapefruit in half. Scoop out the fruit, leaving the rind intact.
Fill the hollowed citrus cup with birdseed. You can hang it up by poking holes in the sides and threading twine through them, forming a loop.
Birds are drawn to the bright colors and the scent of the citrus. This type of feeder is an excellent way to recycle fruit peels while providing food for your feathered friends.
Wooden Spoon Feeder
The wooden spoon feeder is a simple and effective project for kids. It requires minimal materials and can be completed in a short amount of time.
To create this feeder, take a plastic bottle and poke two wooden spoons through the sides. Enlarge the hole at the bowl end of each spoon to allow birdseed to flow.
Fill the bottle with birdseed, ensuring the seeds reach the spoon bowls. This design allows birds to perch on the spoon handles while accessing the seeds, making it an engaging activity for children who enjoy watching birds. For more details, you can visit the Life, Creatively Organized site.
Popsicle Stick Feeder
Building a popsicle stick feeder is perfect for kids. Start by creating a base using eight sticks lined up side by side. Then, secure them with two sticks glued across. This simple structure will serve as the foundation.
For the sides, build a small crate by stacking and gluing sticks on the base. Ensure the walls are sturdy enough to hold bird feed. Adding a stick as a perch will help birds land easily.
Finally, attach strings or ropes to hang the feeder. Cut four pieces of string, each about 4 feet long, and tie them to the corners. This feeder is both fun and educational for children. To learn more about other bird feeding ideas, you can explore some ideas at The Best Ideas for Kids.
Mason Jar Feeder
Mason jar feeders are easy to make and great for attracting a variety of bird species. These feeders require a few materials, including a mason jar, bird seed, and a small round chicken feeder.
Using a vintage mason jar can add a rustic touch. The chicken feeder acts as the base, holding the seeds. Twine or any strong string is used to hang it up, making the feeder secure and easy to install.
Applying a little creativity can make this project enjoyable for kids and adults alike.
Egg Carton Bird Feeder
An egg carton bird feeder is a simple and eco-friendly project for kids. To start, cut off the top of a cardboard egg carton. Using scissors, create holes in each corner of the carton.
Thread a piece of string or twine through these holes. Knot the ends to secure them. This will form the hanger for your feeder.
Fill each section of the carton with birdseed. Hang your egg carton feeder from a tree branch or hook. This feeder is easy for kids to assemble and great for attracting local birds.
Terracotta Pot Feeder
Creating a terracotta pot feeder is simple and fun. Start by flipping a terracotta pot upside down. This will serve as the base of your feeder.
Apply non-toxic adhesive to the rim of the pot. Press a terracotta saucer on top to form a roof. Let it dry completely before hanging.
Hang your feeder in a safe location. Birds will appreciate the shelter and food, creating a delightful spot for watching bird activities. For more details, you can visit this guide.
Easy Bagel Seed Feeder
Kids can make an easy bagel seed feeder to attract birds. Start by cutting a bagel in half and spreading peanut butter on one side. Pour birdseed into a bowl and press the bagel, peanut butter side down, into the seeds.
Tie a string through the bagel’s center hole to create a loop for hanging. This simple bird feeder is a great way to feed backyard birds while engaging children in a fun activity. For detailed instructions, visit PBS Crafts for Kids.
Yogurt Cup Feeder
The yogurt cup feeder is an easy and cost-effective project. First, save an empty yogurt cup. Clean it thoroughly to remove any residue. Then, pierce a hole in the bottom of the cup to thread a string through.
Fill the cup with bird seeds and raisins. Hang it in your backyard. Birds will be drawn to the visible seeds. This feeder suits various birds, offering them a nutritious treat while reusing materials.
For more ideas like these, check out different homemade bird feeders that kids can make.
Lollipop Stick Feeder
A lollipop stick feeder is a simple yet captivating project for kids. Start by taking an empty cardboard tube and making two pairs of slits on opposite sides, just big enough for lollipop sticks.
Insert the sticks into the slits to create perches. These perches allow birds a place to rest while they eat.
Coat the tube with a mixture of peanut butter and bird seed. Hang the feeder in a tree using a piece of string or jute cord. This unique feeder attracts a variety of small birds to your garden.
Painted Clay Pot Feeder
Using a clay pot to create a bird feeder combines creativity with functionality. Begin by selecting a medium-sized clay pot and painting it with non-toxic, weather-resistant paint. Bright colors attract birds and add vibrancy to the garden.
After painting, apply a clear sealer to protect the design from the elements. Once dry, attach a saucer to the base with waterproof glue. This forms the feeding platform.
For easy hanging, thread a sturdy rope through the pot’s drainage hole and tie a secure knot. Hang it from a tree branch or a hook to draw birds to your yard. For inspiration, check out colorful designs on sites like DIY Clay Pot Bird Feeders.
Orange Peel Feeder
One easy and eco-friendly bird feeder idea is the orange peel feeder. To make this, you take an orange, cut it in half, and scoop out the flesh.
After that, punch two or four holes near the edge and thread some twine through the holes, making a hanging loop.
Fill the hollowed orange halves with birdseed or a mixture of birdseed and peanut butter. Hang the feeder from a tree branch and watch the birds enjoy.
This feeder is simple, biodegradable, and perfect for kids to help make. Great for attracting local birds to your yard. More details can be found on the Easy Peasy Creative site.
DIY Teacup Feeder
A DIY teacup feeder can add charm to any garden. It is easy to make and uses everyday items like a teacup and saucer.
These feeders can be mounted on poles or hung from trees using strong adhesive or hooks. Birds will enjoy the perch while feeding, and this setup keeps the food dry.
For a detailed guide, visit 20 charming DIY teacup bird feeders which offers tips and variations for creating these delightful feeders.
Coconut Shell Feeder
Coconut shell feeders are a fun and eco-friendly project for kids. They utilize a discarded coconut shell, which can be turned into a unique bird feeder.
Start by thoroughly cleaning the coconut shell. Rinse it with water and scrub to remove any remaining pulp or debris.
Next, drill two holes near the top of the shell for hanging. Use jute thread or strong string to create a loop.
Fill the shell with bird seed, suet, or a mix of seeds and dried fruit. Hang it from a tree branch to attract birds to your yard. For more details on this project, visit DIY Bird Feeder.
Paper Plate Feeder
A paper plate feeder is an easy and enjoyable project for kids. It requires two paper plates, paint, markers, and a cardboard tube. First, paint one plate a dark shade and the other a light shade.
Once dried, cut from the edge of the plates to the center to form petals. Attach a cardboard tube painted green by making a hole in the center of each plate.
This simple feeder provides a hands-on activity for kids while helping birds. For more details, check out this paper plate bird feeder guide.
Bamboo Tube Feeder
A bamboo tube feeder is an eco-friendly and durable option for feeding birds. To create this feeder, start by finding a thick bamboo stalk. Cut the stalk into a manageable length, typically around 12 inches.
Once you have the bamboo tube, make small holes towards the bottom. These holes will serve as feeding ports for the birds. Ensure that the holes are smooth to avoid harming the birds’ beaks.
Thread a strong string or wire through the top of the bamboo tube to hang it. Fill the tube with birdseed, and it’s ready to attract your feathered friends. This project is simple and quick, making it perfect for kids.
For more ideas, visit 32 Easy Homemade Bird Feeders.