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Easy DIY Bird Feeder for Kids: A Fun and Educational Activity

Creating a bird feeder is a delightful way for children to connect with nature while developing their crafting skills. Not only does it provide a chance for kids to learn about the various bird species in their area, but it also encourages environmental stewardship. With a few simple materials and some guidance, you can create an easy DIY bird feeder that will attract feathered friends to your garden. Here’s how!

Materials Needed

You’ll need the following materials, all of which are easy to find:

• Empty plastic bottle or milk carton (1-litre size works best)
• Pair of scissors or a craft knife (for adult use only)
• String or twine
• Birdseed (you can buy a mixed seed option or create your own blend)
• Markers or paint (optional, for decorating)
• Small stick or twig (for a perch)
• Adhesive (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bottle: Start by thoroughly cleaning the plastic bottle or milk carton. Remove any labels to ensure a clean surface. If you’re using a milk carton, you might want to cut the top off.

2. Cut Holes for Feeding: With adult supervision, carefully use the scissors or craft knife to cut a few small holes in the sides of the bottle. These holes should be large enough for the birdseed to flow out but not so large that the seed falls out too easily. Typically, a circular hole about 2cm in diameter works well.

3. Create a Perch: Approximately 5-10 cm below the holes, make another small hole on opposite sides of the bottle. Push a small stick or twig through these holes to create a perch for the birds. This will provide a place for your feathery guests to rest while they snack.

4. Fill With Birdseed: Carefully fill the bottle or carton with birdseed through the top opening. If you’re using a bottle, you might need to pour the seed through the top cap, which you could also remove completely for easier filling.

5. Seal It Up: If you’re using a bottle, screw the cap back on. For milk cartons, you can simply fold the top back down or secure it with some adhesive.

6. Decorate Your Feeder: Here’s where the fun really begins! Encourage your kids to decorate their feeders using markers, paint, or even stickers. This personal touch will make it more appealing and make the project feel special.

7. Hang Your Feeder: Use the string or twine to create a loop at the top of the feeder. Find a suitable branch in your garden to hang it from. Make sure it’s high enough to keep it safe from curious pets but not so high that it’s inaccessible for birds.

Observing and Learning

Once your bird feeder is hung, gather the family around to observe the birds that come to visit. This is a great opportunity to teach children about the different species of birds, their habits, and their dietary preferences. You can keep a birdwatching journal to document the different types of birds that visit, their colours, and how many times they come by.

Eco-Friendly Benefits

This DIY bird feeder project not only nurtures creativity but also instils a sense of responsibility towards nature in children. By providing food for birds, you’ll be helping them thrive, especially in winter months when food is scarce. Additionally, reusing materials like bottles or cartons is an excellent lesson in sustainability.

Conclusion

Making a bird feeder is an enjoyable and fulfilling activity that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. It’s a simple, affordable project that not only promotes creativity and skill development but also fosters a love for nature. So, gather your materials, enjoy the crafting process, and prepare to watch as your garden becomes a lively hub of avian activity!

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