Bird feeders are a great way to attract and observe birds in your backyard or outdoor space. However, with so many different bird feeders available, it can be hard to decide which one to choose. This article will share some creative bird feeder ideas to help you choose the best feeder for your feathered friends.
What is a bird feeder?
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A bird feeder is a device designed to provide food for wild birds. It is typically made of wood, plastic or metal and comes in various shapes and sizes. Bird feeders are usually filled with bird food such as seed, suet, or nectar and placed outdoors where birds are likely to frequent, such as in a garden or on a balcony.
Bird feeders are used by people who enjoy birdwatching or want to provide food for wild birds in their area. They can attract various bird species, including finches, sparrows, chickadees, and many others. Bird feeders can also provide an important food source for birds during the winter when natural food sources are scarce.
Types of bird feeders
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There are several types of bird feeders that you can use to attract birds to your yard or garden. Here are some of the most common types:
- Tube feeder: A tube feeder is a long, cylindrical feeder with multiple feeding ports. They are usually made of plastic or metal and can hold a variety of seeds.
- Hopper feeder: A hopper feeder is a larger feeder shaped like a house with a sloping roof. It can hold many seeds and is usually made of wood or plastic.
- Platform feeder: A platform feeder is a flat surface that is elevated off the ground and can hold a variety of seeds, nuts, and fruits. It is often used to attract ground-feeding birds like juncos and doves.
- Suet feeder: A suet feeder is a cage-like feeder that holds blocks of suet or other high-fat foods that are attractive to woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other birds.
- Hummingbird feeder: A hummingbird feeder is a specialised feeder designed to hold nectar, a sweet liquid attractive to hummingbirds.
- Oriole feeder: An oriole feeder is a bright orange feeder designed to hold nectar, fruit, and jelly, which are attractive to orioles.
- Thistle feeder: A thistle feeder is a small feeder designed to hold thistle seed, a favourite food of finches and other small birds.
DIY bird feeder ideas
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Here is a list of DIY bird feeders you can try making for your garden or yard:
- Pinecone bird feeder: This simple DIY bird feeder is made by coating a pinecone with peanut butter and rolling it in birdseed. Hang it from a tree using a string.
- Milk carton bird feeder: Cut a square from the front of a clean, empty milk carton, leaving a border of about an inch on all sides. Cut a hole in the centre of the square and cover the edges with duct tape. Decorate the carton with paint or markers, and attach a string for hanging. Fill with birdseed and enjoy watching the birds feed!
- Orange half bird feeder: Cut an orange in half and scoop out the fruit. Poke three holes around the edge of the orange half, and thread a piece of string through each hole. Fill the orange half with birdseed and hang it from a tree.
- Teacup bird feeder: Find an old teacup and saucer you no longer need. Use a strong adhesive to glue the cup to the saucer, ensuring it is securely attached. Fill the teacup with birdseed and place it in your garden or hang it from a tree.
- Bottle bird feeder: Cut four evenly spaced holes around a plastic bottle and insert a wooden spoon through each hole so that the spoons stick out at an angle. Fill the bottle with birdseed and hang it from a tree or a post.
- Toilet paper bird feeder: Spread peanut butter all over a toilet paper roll, then roll it in birdseed until it is covered. Thread a piece of string through the roll and tie it in a knot at the top. Hang it from a tree and watch the birds come to feed!
FAQs
What are some of the different types of bird feeders I can use?
Several bird feeders include tube feeders, hopper feeders, window feeders, and hummingbird feeders. Each feeder has its advantages and may be better suited to different bird species.
What are some easy bird feeders I can make myself?
DIY bird feeders can be a fun and inexpensive way to attract birds to your backyard. Some easy bird feeder ideas you can make yourself include pine cone feeders, milk jug feeders, and orange cup feeders. These can be made using household items and customised to your liking.
What should I consider when choosing a bird feeder?
When choosing a bird feeder, consider the types of birds you want to attract, the location of the feeder, and the types of food you want to offer. It's also essential to choose a feeder that is easy to clean and maintain to ensure the health and safety of the birds.
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