Build a Simple Bird Feeder

For kids

Make a fun bird feeder to help your feathered friends! It's easy to build and a great way to watch birds up close. You'll need a few simple supplies.

What you'll need

• A clean, empty plastic bottle (like a soda or water bottle)
• Two wooden spoons
• Scissors (ask an adult for help!)
• String or twine
• Birdseed

Steps

1. Get ready: Ask a grown-up to help you with scissors.
2. Make holes: Carefully poke two holes on opposite sides of the bottle, near the bottom. These are for the spoons.
3. Insert spoons: Push the handles of the wooden spoons through the holes. The spoon heads should stick out. These are perches for the birds!
4. Make a hole for the string: Punch two holes near the top of the bottle, on opposite sides.
5. Add string: Thread the string or twine through the holes and tie a knot to make a hanger.
6. Fill it up: Carefully pour birdseed into the bottle.
7. Hang it up: Find a good spot outside, like a tree branch, and hang your new bird feeder!

Safety

Always ask an adult for help when using scissors. Be careful when hanging the feeder, and make sure it's in a safe place away from power lines or busy areas.

Why this works

The bird feeder provides a place for birds to eat. The spoons give them a place to sit while they eat. The holes in the bottle let the birdseed pour out. The string lets you hang the feeder outside.

Try this next

• Try different sizes of bottles.
• Decorate your bird feeder with paint or stickers (make sure they are safe for the birds!).
• Research the types of birds in your area and choose birdseed they like.

Now you have a bird feeder! Enjoy watching the birds come to visit. Have fun!