Make a hanging bird feeder
Give winter birds a helping hand by turning a simple carton into a bright and cheerful bird feeder. It’s a fun way to recycle and welcome more feathered friends to your garden!
You'll need:
- Recycled juice or milk carton
- Scissors
- String or twine
- Wooden skewer
- Paint (in your choice of colours)
- Card (optional – to add roof)
- Mixed bird seed
1. Wash out your carton
Rinse it with warm water and let it dry completely.
2. Cut the openings
Using scissors, carefully cut two holes in the sides of the carton, about half-way up. Make the holes big enough for small garden birds like robins or sparrows to hop inside.
3. Add the perch
Carefully push your wooden skewer through the carton just below the openings, so it sticks out at both ends. This will give birds a place to sit while they eat.
4. Optional – Add a roof
If you’d like, cut out some card and stick it on top of your carton to look like a roof.
5. Decorate your feeder
Paint and decorate the carton however you like. You can use bright colours, fun patterns, and add extra details. Let it dry completely before filling.
6. Attach the string
Carefully make a small hole at the top of the carton. Thread string or twine through and tie a strong knot.
7. Fill with bird seed
Pour a thick layer of bird seed into the bottom of the carton. Add enough so it’s easy to reach through the openings.
8. Hang it up
Choose a safe spot in the garden, like a tree branch, and hang your feeder. Make sure it’s high enough to keep the birds safe from pets.
9. Watch and enjoy!
Wait and see which visitors come to perch on your feeder and enjoy a snack.
We’d love to see your finished bird feeder hanging in your garden! Don’t forget to take photos and tag us using #DobbiesLittleSeedlings
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