How to Make a Simple DIY Bird Feeder — Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Create a delicious and easy DIY bird feeder using pinecones and peanut butter to attract feathered friends to your garden.
Quick answer
To make a DIY bird feeder, you need pinecones, peanut butter, birdseed, and string, taking about 15 minutes. Start by smearing peanut butter onto a pinecone. This beginner-friendly activity has 6 steps and is perfect for families and young children.
What you need
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Tie one end of the twine securely around the top of the pinecone, creating a loop for hanging.
- 2
Using a butter knife or spatula, spread a generous layer of peanut butter all over the pinecone, getting it into the crevices.
- 3
Pour the birdseed onto a shallow plate or into a shallow bowl.
- 4
Roll the peanut butter-covered pinecone in the birdseed, pressing gently to ensure the seeds stick.
- 5
Continue rolling and pressing until the entire pinecone is coated in birdseed.
- 6
Hang your finished DIY bird feeder from a tree branch or hook in your yard and watch the birds visit!
Tips & Troubleshooting
- 1If your pinecone is closed, you can gently open it by placing it in a warm, dry place for a day or two.
- 2For a less messy experience, you can place the birdseed in a large zip-top bag and roll the pinecone inside.
- 3Consider adding a few sunflower seeds or dried fruit pieces to the birdseed mix for extra appeal.
- 4If peanut butter is not an option, suet or vegetable shortening can be used as a binder for the birdseed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of peanut butter is best for a DIY bird feeder?
Use creamy, unsalted peanut butter without any added sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be toxic to birds. Natural peanut butter is a great choice.
How long will a DIY bird feeder last outside?
A DIY bird feeder made with peanut butter and pinecones will typically last a few days to a week, depending on weather conditions and how quickly the birds eat it.
Where is the best place to hang a DIY bird feeder?
Hang your bird feeder from a sturdy tree branch or a shepherd's hook in a location that is visible to birds but also offers some protection from predators, like cats.
Can I make a DIY bird feeder without peanut butter?
Yes! You can use suet, vegetable shortening, or even a paste made from oats and water as a binder for the birdseed if you prefer not to use peanut butter.
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