Have you ever looked out your window on a snowy day and wondered how birds manage to find enough food? It takes a lot of energy for our feathered friends to stay warm and active during the colder months. That’s where we come in!
Here at Robert Kline Art, we believe in fostering a love for nature and creativity, and what better way to do that than by creating DIY bird feeders with your kids? These simple projects are a fun and rewarding way to help birds in need while teaching children about nature and responsibility.
Why Make Your Own Bird Feeders?
Besides the joy of crafting with your kids, making your own bird feeders offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature. You’ll be amazed by the variety of birds that visit your backyard, and your children will delight in observing their behavior and learning about different species. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use natural and recycled materials, making it a win-win for both you and the environment.
Four Easy DIY Bird Feeder Ideas:
Leslie Alvis, a homeschooling mom and photographer, shares four easy and eco-friendly bird feeder ideas that she makes with her children. Let’s get crafting!
1. Muffin Bird Feeders
These adorable mini muffins are not only charming but also incredibly versatile. You can place them on window ledges, tuck them into tree branches, or scatter them around your yard.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup peanuts
- ¼ cup chopped bacon
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 small apple, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
- Pulse seeds, nuts, fruit, and bacon in a food processor or chop finely.
- Combine the dry ingredients, then add the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased mini muffin tin.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let the muffins cool completely before setting them out for your feathered friends. Refrigerate or freeze any leftovers for later use.
Pro Tip: Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can substitute different seeds, nuts, and dried fruits based on what you have on hand and what birds in your area prefer.
bird muffins on fence posts
2. Pinecone Bird Feeders
This classic bird feeder is a favorite among kids and birds alike! It’s incredibly easy to make and utilizes natural materials, making it both fun and environmentally friendly.
Ingredients:
- Pinecones (any size and shape will work)
- String
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons shortening or butter
- 2-3 cups birdseed
Instructions:
- Tie a 6-8 inch piece of string securely to the top of each pinecone.
- In a saucepan, melt the peanut butter and shortening or butter together over low heat.
- Once the mixture is melted and smooth, carefully dip each pinecone into the mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Roll the coated pinecones in birdseed, pressing gently to ensure the seeds adhere well.
- Hang your pinecone feeders from tree branches and watch the birds flock to their new feeding station.
Pro Tip: If your pinecones are tightly closed, you can place them in a preheated 200°F oven for about 30 minutes to help them open up. Just be sure to let them cool completely before handling!
pine cone bird feeder hanging
3. Log Suet Feeder
This rustic feeder is perfect for attracting woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other birds that enjoy clinging to trees while they eat.
Materials:
- A log, approximately 4 inches in diameter and 12-18 inches long
- 1.5-inch drill bit
- Drill
- Chain for hanging
Instructions:
- Adult Supervision Required: Drill several 1.5-inch deep holes into the log. The number of holes will depend on the size of your log.
- Attach a chain to the top of the log for hanging.
- Fill the drilled holes with suet. You can purchase pre-made suet cakes or make your own using a mixture of suet, birdseed, nuts, and dried fruit.
Pro Tip: To make your own suet, render beef fat or use lard. Melt the fat and then mix in your desired ingredients. Pour the mixture into the log holes and allow it to cool and harden completely before hanging.
Easy and Eco-friendly Bird Feeders to Make with Kids
4. Birdseed Wreath Feeder
This festive feeder doubles as a charming decoration for your yard! It’s a bit more involved than the other feeders, but the result is a beautiful and functional treat for the birds.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup hot water
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- ¾ cup flour
- 3 tablespoons corn syrup
- 4 cups birdseed
Instructions:
- In a bowl, dissolve the gelatin in hot water, stirring until completely combined.
- Add the flour and corn syrup to the gelatin mixture and stir until a sticky paste forms.
- Gradually mix in the birdseed until the mixture is well combined and holds its shape.
- Press the birdseed mixture into a greased bundt pan or other mold.
- Let the wreath dry for at least 24 hours, or until completely hardened.
- Once dry, carefully remove the wreath from the mold and thread a ribbon or twine through it for hanging.
Pro Tip: To prevent the wreath from becoming soggy, hang it in a sheltered location, such as under a porch or awning.
bird feeder wreath
Embrace the Joy of Bird Feeding
Making your own bird feeders is an enriching experience that combines creativity, compassion, and a love for nature. Gather your materials, invite your children to join in, and let the crafting begin!
Share your Creations!
We’d love to see your DIY bird feeders! Share your photos and experiences with us on social media. And for more creative craft ideas and unique handmade gifts, be sure to explore the rest of our website, Robert Kline Art. Happy bird feeding!