Easy Platform Bird Feeder: A Fun and Inexpensive DIY Project for Kids

As the winter season approaches, many bird species migrate to areas with abundant food sources to sustain themselves through the harsh months. Providing a steady supply of seeds and nuts is essential for their survival. One easy and fun way to do this is by creating your own platform bird feeder using household items.

This project involves making a simple bird feeder using peanut butter, birdseed, and a pine cone. The process is straightforward, and kids can participate in every step, making it an excellent activity for family bonding. Here's how you can make one:

Materials needed:

* Pine cones

* Peanut butter

* Bird seed

* String or twine

* Optional: pipe cleaners or twist ties

Instructions:

1. Start by spreading a generous layer of peanut butter on the pine cone, making sure to cover it evenly.

2. Roll the pine cone in birdseed until it is well-coated.

3. Tie a string or twine around the top of the pine cone, leaving enough room to hang it from a tree branch or pole.

Tips:

* Use a secure loop to prevent the feeder from falling off the branch.

* You can also use smaller seeds for better results, but mixed seed or black-oil sunflower seed will work too if you press them in well.

* Consider using Crisco instead of peanut butter if there are peanut allergies to consider.

* Hang your feeder in a spot that is difficult for squirrels to reach, such as thin branches high off the ground.

Benefits:

* This feeder is simple to make and inexpensive.

* It can be easily reused or composted when the seed on it is gone.

* By making your own bird feeder, you and your kids can help support local bird populations and enjoy the satisfaction of providing for their needs.

In addition to pine cone feeders, there are many other DIY options available. For example, you can use cookie cutters to create a simple platform bird feeder filled with birdseed and gelatin. This feeder is easy to make and can be customized with different shapes and colors. Here's how:

Materials needed:

* Cookie cutters

* Gelatin

* Bird seed

* Water

* Non-stick spray

Instructions:

1. Empty 1 package of unflavored gelatin into a bowl and mix it with 2 tablespoons of cold water.

2. Add 2 cups of birdseed to the gelatin mixture and stir until well combined.

3. Add 1/3 cup of boiling water, stirring for a few minutes or until the gelatin is dissolved.

4. Spray your cookie cutters with non-stick spray to make them easier to remove.

5. Fill each cookie cutter with the seed mixture and press it firmly into shape.

6. Place the cookie cutters on a tray or sheet of wax paper and let them set in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Tips:

* Use smaller seeds for better results, but mixed seed or black-oil sunflower seed will work too if you press them in well.

* Spray your cookie cutters with non-stick spray to make them easier to remove.

* Hang your feeder on a tree branch or pole and enjoy watching the birds feed!

With these simple DIY bird feeder projects, you can provide for local bird populations while having fun with your family. So why not give it a try? With just a few household items, you can create a platform bird feeder that will bring joy to both you and the birds!

Easy platform bird feeder