Build a Bird Feeder to Invite Nature to Your Garden

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

1. Wood scraps, teacups, or plastic bottles (for the feeder base)
2. Twine or wire (for hanging)
3. Glue or screws (for assembly)
4. Birdseed (sunflower seeds, millet, or a mix)

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to build your bird feeder:

1. Choose Your Base: Use wood scraps to create a platform feeder, a teacup for a whimsical design, or cut a plastic bottle in half for a recycled option.
2. Assemble the Feeder: Attach a hanging mechanism (twine or wire) to your base. For wood, drill holes and thread the wire; for teacups, glue a wire handle; for bottles, poke holes in the cap.
3. Add Birdseed: Fill your feeder with bird-friendly seeds and hang it in your garden.
4. Enjoy the Visitors: Watch as birds discover their new dining spot!

Tips for Placement

Where you place your bird feeder can make a big difference:

• Hang it near trees or shrubs for birds to perch and feel safe.
• Keep it away from predators like cats by placing it at least 5 feet off the ground.
• Ensure it’s visible from your window so you can enjoy the birdwatching!

Bird-Friendly Seeds

Not all seeds are created equal! Here’s what birds love:

• Sunflower seeds: A favorite among many bird species.
• Millet: Great for ground-feeding birds like sparrows.
• Nyjer seeds: Perfect for finches and other small birds.
• Avoid bread or processed foods, as they’re not healthy for birds.