It’s nearly winter! Time to consider putting up a bird feeder. Birds need that extra energy in times of temperature extremes and when natural sources of food may not be as readily available. Ready to make a bird feeder?
Make a Bird Feeder
Suggestions
- First decide what type of birds you wish to attract.
- Find a suitable location for a feeder.
You’ll want the location free from predators and frequent traffic. You will also want to suit your location to the type of bird you wish to attract. Some birds prefer open areas, others cover, still others wooded areas, etc. - Determine the height the feeder should be for your specific bird.
- Decide which type of feed your bird will prefer.
Check the Winter Bird Feeding Guide from Cornell for help in choosing the best feed for your bird. - Choose a feeder that is perfect for the type of feed you select.
Check out these feeder types at Cornell’s Feeder Watch for ideas. - Be sure to leave your feeder up until spring when the birds you have attracted can find abundant food on their own.
Additional Resources
Homemade Bird Feeders
Plans from the National Audubon Society for six different feeders including several that are easy for children to make.
Activity: Make a DIY Pumpkin Bird Feeder
Another idea.
Books
The Backyard Bird Feeder’s Bible: The A-to-Z Guide To Feeders, Seed Mixes, Projects, And Treats by Sally Roth
Family favorite alphabetically covers everything needed to attract birds to your feeder — from A to Z!
Printables & Notebooking Pages
Common Feeder Birds Mini-Poster
Great download from Cornell for identification or notebook!
Keep Reading
Free Nature Studies: Landlord to the Birds
Landlords to the birds provide shelter, a place to bathe, and food in the winter. Unit resources.
Activity: Make a DIY Pumpkin Bird Feeder
Here is a fun nature activity for you and your family to enjoy this fall: Make a DIY pumpkin bird feeder.
For the Birds {Free eBook}
For the Birds is a free publication from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that encourages backyard bird watching.