Quick, Easy-to-Make Bird Feeders

Peanut Butter and Birdseeds

• Peanut butter is often used in place of suet in birdfeeders and is something most people have in their kitchens. Spread Peanut butter across a carrier and then roll in birdseed. Some good carriers are wheat sandwich bread, a pinecone or a wooden cutout. If you choose to use sandwich bread, cut it out with different shape cookie cutters. Wooden cutouts can be purchased at craft stores in different shapes and sizes. The finished product can be hung from tree branches.

Recycled Feeders

• Using a one-gallon plastic milk carton is a great way to recycle and make a birdfeeder. After cleaning the carton and allowing it to dry, use a utility knife to cut a hole in the side. Then fill the carton with birdseed and hang it from a tree. If you want to add a perch for the birds, cut an X under the hole and insert a dowel rod into the hole for the birds to perch on.

Pie Plate

• By punching a few holes through the edges of a disposable pie plate and tying string through the holes, you can create a hanging feeder. The birdseed is poured directly into the plate. This feeder can be taken down and cleaned as needed.

Garland

• For an attractive and unusual feeder make a garland of edible treats. Use a rope or string to attach the food to, and then string it around shrubs or fences for the birds to eat. To make a garland feeder, use a darning needle to pass thread through different bird-friendly food options, such as popcorn, dried fruit or cereals.