Posted on Dec 1, 2023 at 4:01 pm by Emily Q
You are a bird lover and want to welcome them into your garden?
Why not create your own bird feeder with a plastic bottle? It’s a fun, economical, and ecological activity that combines a passion for nature and recycling. In this article, we offer you tutorials and easy ideas to make your own bird feeder out of a plastic bottle.
Table of Contents
The advantages of bird feeders made from plastic bottles
- Economical: they are made with materials you already have at home, such as plastic bottles and wooden spoons.
- Ecological: they allow you to recycle your plastic waste while providing shelter for birds.
- Easy to make: just follow a few simple steps to create your own personalized bird feeder.
Tutorial #1: The classic bird feeder
To make this basic feeder, here are the steps to follow:
- Get an empty plastic bottle (preferably with a capacity of at least 1.5L).
- Remove the label and clean the bottle.
- Make two opposite holes on the side of the bottle, about 5 cm from the bottom. These holes will be used to insert a wooden spoon that will serve as a perch for the birds.
- Make another hole just above each previous hole to allow birds to access the food.
- Insert the wooden spoon into the holes, making sure that the handle protrudes enough for the birds to perch on.
- Suspend the feeder using a rope or strong thread passing through the bottle neck.
- Fill your feeder with bird seeds and enjoy your new visitors!
Tutorial #2: The bird feeder with a roof
This variant adds a roof to protect the birds and their food from bad weather. Here’s how to do it:
- Get two empty plastic bottles (preferably with a capacity of at least 1.5L).
- Remove the labels and clean the bottles.
- Cut off the upper part of one of the bottles, just below the neck, to create the roof of your feeder. You can paint or decorate this part if you wish.
- Follow steps 3 to 6 of tutorial #1 to make the base of the feeder with the other bottle.
- Place the roof on the base of the feeder by inserting the neck into the bottom opening of the bottle.
Tips to optimize your bird feeder
To attract even more birds and offer them a more comfortable space, here are some tips:
- Vary the types of seeds offered to attract different bird species.
- Place your feeder in a quiet and secure location, sheltered from predators and strong winds.
- Add a water source nearby (such as a dish or birdbath) to allow birds to drink and bathe.
- Clean your feeder regularly to prevent the spread of diseases among birds.
By following these tutorials and tips, you can easily and quickly make a bird feeder out of a plastic bottle. In addition to making a gesture for the environment, you will contribute to the well-being of the birds that will come to feed in your garden. So, grab your bottles and enjoy crafting!
