5 Adorable DIY Bird Feeders for Kids and Families

Winter can be tough for birds, as they need to eat up to half their body weight daily to survive. Providing food through a bird feeder is a great way to help them thrive during colder months. It’s also a fun and educational activity for the whole family.

Making a bird feeder is more than just a craft—it’s a chance to teach kids about nature, teamwork, and environmental care. Projects like these encourage kids to observe birds up close, sparking curiosity about science and ecology.

Using eco-friendly materials, such as biodegradable items, makes these projects even more meaningful. It’s a simple yet impactful way to bond with your kids while giving back to nature.

Key Takeaways

• Birds need extra food in winter to stay healthy.
• DIY feeders are a fun way to teach kids about nature.
• These projects encourage family teamwork and creativity.
• Using eco-friendly materials supports the environment.
• Birdwatching can inspire interest in STEM learning.

Introduction: Why DIY Bird Feeders Are Perfect for Families

Creating a DIY bird feeder is a simple way to connect with nature and spend quality time together. These projects are perfect for families looking for easy and fun activities that everyone can enjoy. Best of all, they don’t require advanced crafting skills or expensive tools.

Leslie Alvis, a nature enthusiast, emphasizes the importance of using biodegradable materials. “Feeders should biodegrade if blown away,” she says. This approach ensures that your project is eco-friendly and safe for the environment.

Making homemade bird feeders also encourages kids to observe wildlife up close. You’ll attract a variety of birds, turning your backyard into a mini nature reserve. This hands-on experience can spark curiosity and inspire a love for science and ecology.

For parents concerned about complexity, most projects require no power tools. Simple materials like recycled items or pinecones are all you need. This makes it a mess-free and outdoor-friendly activity, perfect for crafting on a picnic table.

These projects also align with Ginny Yurich’s #1000hoursoutside challenge. Spending time outdoors while making feeders is a great way to meet this goal. Plus, using recycled materials saves money compared to store-bought options.

Benefits	Details
Eco-Friendly	Biodegradable materials reduce environmental impact.
Educational	Kids learn about birds and their habitats.
Cost-Effective	Recycled materials make it budget-friendly.
Family Bonding	Shared activity strengthens family connections.

1. Pinecone Bird Feeders: A Classic Craft for All Ages

Pinecone bird feeders are a timeless activity that brings nature closer to home. This project is perfect for families looking for a simple yet rewarding way to attract wildlife. With just a few supplies, you can create a homemade bird treat that’s both fun and functional.

Materials Needed

To get started, gather these easy-to-find items:

• Pinecones (microwaved for 30 seconds to open them up)
• String or twine for hanging
• 1 cup of peanut butter (or almond butter for nut-free options)
• 2 tablespoons of shortening
• Birdseed (a mix of seeds works best)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your pinecone bird feeder:

1. Tie a piece of string around the top of the pinecone for hanging.
2. Mix peanut butter and shortening in a bowl until smooth.
3. Spread the mixture onto the pinecone, covering it completely.
4. Roll the pinecone in birdseed, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
5. Hang your feeder in a visible spot and watch the birds flock to it!

Tips for Success

Here are some handy tips to make your project even better:

• Use fresh pinecones for the best results. If they’re closed, microwave them briefly to open them up.
• Hang the feeder in a shaded area to prevent the peanut butter from melting in the sun.
• Choose a mix of seeds to attract a variety of birds to your yard.
• Involve kids in every step to make it a fun learning experience.

With these steps, you’ll have a diy bird project that’s both enjoyable and beneficial for your feathered friends.

2. Muffin Bird Feeders: A Tasty Treat for Birds

Muffin bird feeders are a delightful way to combine baking with nature. This project is perfect for families who want to create something both fun and functional. With simple ingredients, you can make a treat that birds will love.

Ingredients

To make these bird feeder muffins, gather the following items:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup birdseed
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup milk

For extra protein, consider adding bacon or peanuts. If you prefer, swap raisins for dried mealworms.

Baking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your suet bird feeder muffins:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. Add peanut butter, melted butter, and milk. Stir until combined.
4. Spoon the batter into a muffin tin, filling each cup halfway.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Once cooled, these muffins are ready to feed birds in your backyard.

Why Birds Love Them

Birds are attracted to the high-energy mix of seeds and fats in these muffins. The combination of peanut butter and birdseed provides essential nutrients, especially during colder months. This makes it an easy and effective way to support local wildlife.

For more ideas on how to make a DIY bird feeder, check out this DIY bird feeder easy craft for backyard.

3. Log Suet Bird Feeder: A Project for Older Kids

Building a log suet bird feeder is a hands-on project that’s perfect for older kids. It combines woodworking skills with nature appreciation, making it both educational and fun. This project is ideal for families looking to engage older children in a meaningful outdoor activity.

Tools and Materials

To create your suet bird feeder, you’ll need the following items:

• A 4-inch diameter log (about 6-8 inches long)
• A 1.5-inch drill bit
• Ham fat or store-bought suet
• Birdseed mix
• Chain or rope for hanging

Using store-bought suet is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. It’s readily available and works just as well as homemade suet.

How to Assemble

Follow these steps to assemble your log suet bird feeder:

1. Drill 1.5-inch holes into the log, spacing them evenly around the surface.
2. Fill the holes with ham fat or store-bought suet.
3. Press birdseed into the suet until it’s fully coated.
4. Attach a chain or rope to the top of the log for hanging.
5. Hang the feeder in a shaded area to prevent the suet from melting.

Safety Tips

Safety is key when working on this project. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Supervise kids when using tools like drills.
• Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp edges.
• Choose a stable surface for drilling to avoid accidents.
• Hang the feeder in a safe, accessible spot for birds.

Material	Purpose
4-inch log	Base for the feeder
1.5-inch drill bit	Creates holes for suet
Ham fat/suet	High-energy food for birds
Birdseed mix	Attracts a variety of birds

This project is a fantastic way to teach older kids about woodworking and wildlife care. It’s also a great addition to any backyard, attracting a variety of birds while providing them with essential nutrients.

4. Birdseed Wreath Feeder: A Beautiful Addition to Your Yard

A birdseed wreath feeder is a charming and practical way to attract wildlife to your yard. This project combines creativity with functionality, making it a perfect activity for families. It’s also an excellent way to teach kids about nature while creating something beautiful.

Ingredients

To make this homemade bird treat, gather the following items:

• ½ cup hot water
• 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
• ¾ cup flour
• 3 tablespoons corn syrup (acts as a binder)
• 4 cups birdseed

Assembly Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your birdseed wreath feeder:

1. Mix hot water and gelatin until fully dissolved.
2. Add flour and corn syrup, stirring until a sticky paste forms.
3. Fold in the birdseed, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Press the mixture into a well-greased bundt or tube pan.
5. Let it dry for at least 24 hours before removing from the mold.

Decorative Ideas

Make your feeder even more special with these creative touches:

• Tie a scrap of burlap around the wreath for a rustic look.
• Add dried flowers or berries for extra charm.
• Hang it in a protected area to keep it safe from rain.

This project is a wonderful way to engage kids in a diy bird activity while adding beauty to your outdoor space. For more ideas, check out these easy bird feeders with kids.

5. Milk Jug Bird Feeder: A Simple Recycled Project

Transform an everyday milk jug into a functional bird feeder with this simple project. It’s a great way to repurpose recycled materials while helping local wildlife. This activity is perfect for kids and families looking for an easy and eco-friendly craft.

Materials Needed

To get started, gather these basic supplies:

• A clean milk jug with cap
• Scissors or a utility knife
• Wooden spoons or sticks for perches
• Twine or rope for hanging
• Birdseed (a mix works best)

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to create your bottle bird feeder:

1. Wash the milk jug thoroughly and remove the label.
2. Cut small “windows” into the sides of the jug for birds to access the seeds.
3. Insert wooden spoons or sticks through the jug to create perches.
4. Poke two holes near the top of the jug and thread twine through for hanging.
5. Fill the jug with birdseed and hang it in a shaded area.

Eco-Friendly Benefits

This project is a fantastic way to reduce waste. By reusing a milk jug, you’re giving it a second life instead of sending it to a landfill. It’s also a great way to teach kids about sustainability and caring for the environment.

For more ideas on wildlife projects, check out this milk jug bird feeder tutorial.

Conclusion: Enjoy Nature with DIY Bird Feeders

Crafting feeders at home is a simple yet impactful way to support wildlife. These projects blend creativity with conservation, offering a hands-on way to teach kids about nature. As Leslie Alvis says, “Lessons experienced outdoors sink deepest.”

Once your diy bird feeder is ready, use apps like Merlin Bird ID to document the birds that visit. It’s a fun way to learn more about local species and their habits. Don’t forget to share your creations—tag us in your feeder photos with #DIYBirdFeederFun!

Even if a project doesn’t turn out perfectly, it’s still a valuable experience. Failed attempts teach patience and problem-solving, making every effort worthwhile. So grab your materials, gather your family, and start crafting your own easy bird feeders today!