DYI Bird Feeders: 5 Easy Ways to Welcome Birds to Your Backyard

Birdwatching is a wonderful way to relax, and creating your own bird feeder is the perfect way to invite feathered friends to your yard. Whether you’re looking for a fun family project or an eco-friendly craft, DIY bird feeders are simple to make and customizable for various bird species. Below, we’ve compiled five easy-to-make bird feeders that use everyday materials.

1. Recycled Plastic Bottle Feeder

What You’ll Need:

Empty plastic bottle (1–2 liter)

Two wooden spoons or chopsticks

Twine or string

Scissors or craft knife

Birdseed

How to Make It:

Clean the bottle and let it dry.

Cut small holes near the bottom for the spoons to fit through, creating perches.

Above each perch, cut feeding holes just big enough for birds to access the seed.

Insert the spoons through the holes and fill the bottle with birdseed.

Tie a string around the neck and hang it in a shaded spot.

Why It Works:

This feeder is durable, upcycled, and perfect for small backyard birds like finches and sparrows.

2. Pinecone Bird Feeder

What You’ll Need:

Large pinecone

Peanut butter (unsalted and natural)

Birdseed

String

How to Make It:

Tie a string around the top of the pinecone for hanging.

Spread peanut butter generously into the crevices of the pinecone.

Roll the pinecone in birdseed until it’s well-coated.

Hang it from a tree branch.

Why It Works:

This feeder is simple, biodegradable, and ideal for colder months when birds need extra energy from fats and seeds.

3. Milk Carton Bird Feeder

What You’ll Need:

Empty milk or juice carton

Scissors or craft knife

Paint or markers (optional)

String

Birdseed

How to Make It:

Wash and dry the carton.

Cut out a large opening on one or more sides, leaving a small ledge at the bottom for birds to perch.

Decorate the carton if desired.

Poke a hole at the top, thread the string, and fill the carton with birdseed.

Hang it in your yard.

Why It Works:

This project is a great way to teach kids about recycling while creating a roomy feeder for birds.

4. Orange Peel Bird Feeder

What You’ll Need:

Large orange

Knife

Twine or string

Birdseed

How to Make It:

Cut the orange in half and scoop out the fruit, leaving the peel intact.

Poke two small holes near the top of each half and thread string through them to create a hanger. Fill the orange peel with birdseed.

Hang the feeder on a tree branch.

Why It Works:

This feeder is fully compostable and brings a natural, rustic look to your garden.

5. Teacup and Saucer Feeder

What You’ll Need:

Old teacup and saucer

Strong glue or epoxy

Birdseed

How to Make It:

Glue the teacup to the saucer at a slight angle so the cup can hold seed while the saucer catches spillage.

Once the glue dries, place the feeder on a table, attach it to a post, or use string to hang it.

Why It Works:

This elegant feeder adds charm to your yard and is perfect for sparrows, robins, and other small birds.

________________________________

Tips for Success

Clean Regularly: Wash feeders frequently to prevent mold and bacteria.

Choose the Right Seed: Use a mix of sunflower seeds, millet, and suet to attract a variety of birds.

Placement Matters: Hang feeders in safe, quiet spots, away from predators.

Get Started Today!

Making a DIY bird feeder is easy, rewarding, and a great way to connect with nature. Try one—or all—of these ideas and watch as your yard becomes a haven for local wildlife. Have a favorite bird feeder idea or a tip for attracting birds? Share it in the comments!

MULTIFAMILY FOR LIFE | Community Connections

Looking for more creative ways to engage with your residents?

Learn more about hosting a Birdwatcher's Breakfast or DYI Bird Feeder Resident Event....

Subscribe to our Multifamily Marketing Newsletter!