Who says that bird watching supplies for attracting friends can be expensive? I have been watching birds for years and have learned that some of the best items for watching birds can be found at your local dollar store. Here are some affordable finds that the birds will absolutely love.

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1. Plastics Containers Used For Storing Items For DIY Bird Baths

A shallow plastic container can be used as a DIY bird bath if it is mounted and maintained properly. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology states that birds like water sources that have a depth of 1-2 inches. Be sure to use a container that has a textured bottom. Also, clean the container with a 10% bleach solution to limit the spread of disease.

2. Uncooked White Rice

There are a variety of foods you can use in bird feeding stations. Rice is safe to use, though, per the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, rice isn't particularly nutritious. Other more valuable foods include black oil sunflower seeds, millet, and cracked corn. If you offer rice, it should only be plain white rice with NO seasonings or additives and should only be used sporadically in conjunction with other rice.

3. Small Plastic Baskets

The National Wildlife Federation has stated that suet feeders must have proper drainage and ventilation. Plastic baskets may work as temporary suet holders, but make sure they are durable enough to handle inclement weather and wildlife. Clean them regularly, and check for damage that could injure the birds that are being fed.

4. Cotton String or Twine

The Audubon Society suggests that you provide only natural and undyed cotton fibers for nest building materials. You should cut the fibers into lengths less than 6 inches to avoid potential entanglement that could injure birds. Moreover, do not use synthetic fibers, plastic string, or dryer lint, as these materials pose risks to the birds and their young.

5. Small Cleaning Brushes

To stop the spread of diseases, clean your bird feeders regularly. Cornell Lab of Ornithology suggests cleaning bird feeders every two weeks using a 10% bleach solution. Brushes from dollar stores can be effective tools when used only for that purpose and properly cleaned between uses.

6. Shower Hooks

Although lightweight feeders can be supported by plastic shower hooks, the National Wildlife Federation suggests using proper mounting hardware. Make sure to use hooks with an outdoor rating and that they can hold the weight of the feeder with wet seed and several birds that may be feeding. For long-term purposes, feeder-specific metal hooks are suggested.

7. Mesh Produce Bags

Commercial bird feeders are always a safer option. If you still choose to use bird feeders with mesh bags, you need to monitor how often you replace and check for wear on the bag and choose bags with appropriately sized mesh to avoid potential bird entanglement. The Audubon Society warns against using mesh bags that are not made for bird feeding.

8. Plain Paper Plates

Paper plates can be used for short-term ground feeding stations, although the Cornell Lab of Ornithology suggests replacing them daily to limit mold and maximise feeding station cleanliness. For a more environmentally friendly option, try using designated ground feeding tray's that include proper drainage.

9. Small Plastic Colanders

Check to see that the plastic used for the colander is bird-safe and that it is sturdy enough to use outdoors. Wild birds feeders that are designed for use with wild birds are recommended by the National Wildlife Federation because they have been tested for safety and durability.

According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, when you clean your bird feeders, you should be using a 10% bleach solution. While safety may come at a higher cost, the CDC recommends that you monitor any homemade bird feeders for deterioration.