How to Build a Simple Bird Feeder for Your Backyard Birds?

Do you want to attract more birds to your backyard?

A homemade bird feeder is a fun and easy way to provide food for local birds, especially during colder months. 

Here, we’ll show you how to build a simple bird feeder that will attract a variety of birds to your yard, creating a vibrant wildlife sanctuary.

Why Build a Bird Feeder?

Building a bird feeder benefits both you and the birds:

• Attracting birds: A bird feeder ensures that you’ll have a steady stream of feathered visitors.
• Birdwatching opportunities: Enjoy observing a wide variety of bird species right from your window.
• Helping local wildlife: Birds rely on food sources, especially in winter or when natural food is scarce.

Materials You’ll Need

• Empty toilet paper roll (or a wooden base if you prefer)
• Peanut butter (unsweetened and without xylitol)
• Birdseed (mixed seeds, sunflower seeds, or thistle seeds)
• String or twine (optional for hanging)

Steps to Build Your Bird Feeder

Step 1: Prepare the Toilet Paper Roll

Take an empty toilet paper roll and cut it to the size you want (you can keep it full length if preferred).

If you're using a wooden base, ensure it has a hole for easy hanging.

Step 2: Apply Peanut Butter

Spread a generous layer of peanut butter over the entire surface of the toilet paper roll. Make sure to cover it thickly so that the birdseed sticks well.

Step 3: Roll in Birdseed

Roll the peanut butter-covered toilet paper roll in birdseed. Gently press it to ensure the seeds stick. You can use a variety of seeds, depending on the birds you wish to attract.

Step 4: Hang Your Feeder

If you’re using a toilet paper roll, thread a string or twine through the hole and tie it into a loop.

Hang your bird feeder on a tree branch, fence, or hook in your yard. Be sure to place it in a location visible to birds, away from any potential predators like cats.

Tips for the Best Bird Feeder Experience

Place feeders in safe locations: Birds prefer feeders that are placed in areas where they feel safe, such as near shrubs or trees for cover.

• Use fresh seeds: Change the birdseed regularly to ensure it's fresh and free of mold.
• Clean the feeder: Wash your bird feeder every couple of weeks to prevent the spread of disease.

Attracting a Variety of Birds

This simple bird feeder will attract many species of birds, such as:

• Sparrows
• Finches
• Chickadees
• Blue Jays
• Woodpeckers

By using different types of birdseed, you can cater to the needs of various bird species.

Conclusion

Creating your own bird feeder is a rewarding and eco-friendly activity. It not only helps you attract beautiful birds to your backyard but also allows you to provide an essential food source for local wildlife. Whether you use a toilet paper roll or get creative with other materials, your homemade bird feeder will surely be a hit with the birds in your neighborhood.

Want more DIY bird care ideas? Explore our full collection of articles on BirdsHive!