Try This: Make a Bird Feeder from Recycled Material
April is a great time for birdwatching in Oklahoma! This time of year is when many migratory birds start passing through Oklahoma on their way back up north. You can upcycle a bird feeder from a few materials in your house or yard and hopefully attract some new feathered friends to your yard.
Here’s what you need:
- A toilet paper or paper towel tube, or, if you can find one in your yard or neighborhood, a pinecone
- Birdseed
- Peanut butter or other nut butter
- String or yarn
- Spoon or spatula
- Hole punch or scissors
- A tree or other spot to hang the feeder
Here’s what to do:
1. Punch two holes in the cardboard straight across from each other near the top of the tube. If you’re using a pine cone, holes aren’t necessary. You can just tie the string directly around the pine cone.
2. Use string or yarn to make a loop through the holes and tie a knot. Leave about a foot of string at the top. This will be used to tie it to a branch on a tree later.
3. Use a spoon or spatula to spread nut butter all around the exterior of the cardboard tube or pinecone.
4. Roll the cardboard tube in the birdseed. If you’re using a pinecone it may be easier to sprinkle the birdseed on, depending on its shape. It should be covered in birdseed.
5. Tie the upcycled bird feeder on a branch of a tree so that you can watch it from your steps, a swing, or even a window.
You’re done! Not only have you found a way to help the birds and reuse things from your home, you have invited entertainment to your own little corner of the world to enjoy.
Want to take it further? Keep a nature journal and record your observations. What kinds of birds are visiting your yard? Are other animals trying to enjoy the bird feeder? What time of day is it the busiest? Take pictures and let us know what you see with #SMOatHome!
