Creating a DIY toilet paper roll bird feeder is a fantastic, eco-friendly activity that combines creativity and nature appreciation. Not only does this simple craft give you an opportunity to repurpose materials often discarded, but it also invites our feathered friends into your yard. Imagine the delight of watching birds flit by to snack on the seeds you’ve provided. This engaging project is perfect for kids and adults alike, sparking curiosity about wildlife and giving you a chance to bond over a fun hands-on activity. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of time or materials. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the straightforward steps of creating a delightful bird feeder that will brighten up your garden or balcony and attract various bird species.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeder:
- Eco-Friendly: Repurpose waste materials while benefiting wildlife.
- Cost-Effective: Uses items you likely already have at home.
- Fun for Kids: Great educational activity that fosters creativity and awareness of nature.
- Customizable: Easy to personalize with colors, seeds, and decorations.
- Attracts Wildlife: Provides food and attracts various birds to your space.
Materials
- 1 empty toilet paper roll
- Peanut butter (or lard for a bird-safe alternative)
- Birdseed (seed mix or specific seeds preferred by local birds)
- String or twine (for hanging)
- Plate or shallow dish (for easy seed coating)
- Optional: Paint, markers, or natural embellishments (like twigs or leaves) for decoration
Full Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Role
- Begin with a clean and dry toilet paper roll.
- If desired, use paint or markers to decorate the outside to make it colorful and attractive. Allow it to dry completely.
Step 2: Apply the Peanut Butter
- Use a butter knife or spoon to spread a generous layer of peanut butter (or lard) over the entire surface of the roll.
- Ensure it’s evenly coated for the best seed adherence.
Step 3: Coat with Birdseed
- Pour birdseed onto a plate or shallow dish.
- Roll the peanut butter-coated tube in the birdseed, pressing down gently to ensure it sticks well.
Step 4: Adding a Hanging Mechanism
- Cut a piece of string or twine, about 1-2 feet long.
- Thread through one end of the roll and tie a knot to create a loop for hanging.
Step 5: Hang and Enjoy
- Find a suitable spot outdoors, preferably near a window or a comfortable viewing area.
- Hang the feeder from a tree branch, post, or hook.
Tips & Variations
- Customized Seed Mix: Use seeds that attract specific bird species common in your area.
- Decorations: Use natural items like leaves, twigs, or even colorful yarn to adorn your feeder.
- Weather-Proofing: Coat the feeder in a layer of clear varnish to protect it from the elements for outdoor use.
- Size Variations: Use larger paper towel rolls for a more extensive feeder.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of spreads instead of peanut butter?
Yes! Other bird-safe alternatives include vegetable shortening or lard. Just make sure the substance is suitable for birds.
2. How long will the feeder last outdoors?
An average toilet paper roll bird feeder may last a few days to a week, depending on the weather conditions and feeding activity.
3. What types of birdseed should I use?
Check local stores for seed mixes designed for specific birds in your area, or mix sunflower seeds, millet, and suet for a wide variety.
4. Can I use this feeder in the winter?
Absolutely! Birds need food during the winter months, so placing feeders then is a wonderful way to help them survive.
Suggestions
- Consider hosting a birdwatching day to coincide with your new feeder!
- Create a whole series of feeders using different designs and hangouts, turning your space into a bird paradise.
- Document the different species visiting your feeder and create an informal birdwatching journal.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a DIY toilet paper roll bird feeder offers a wonderful way to connect with nature, practice sustainability, and enjoy the beauty of wildlife in your backyard. We’d love to see your versions of this craft! Feel free to share your photos or leave a comment below with your experiences and any unique twists you’ve added to your feeders. Happy crafting!
Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeder
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 roll empty toilet paper roll Clean and dry
- 1 cup peanut butter or lard Use lard for a bird-safe alternative
- 2 cups birdseed Seed mix or specific seeds preferred by local birds
- 1 piece string or twine For hanging
- 1 plate shallow dish For easy seed coating
Optional Decorations
- paint, markers, or natural embellishments Such as twigs or leaves for decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin with a clean and dry toilet paper roll.
- If desired, use paint or markers to decorate the outside to make it colorful and attractive. Allow it to dry completely.
Coating
- Use a butter knife or spoon to spread a generous layer of peanut butter (or lard) over the entire surface of the roll.
- Ensure it’s evenly coated for the best seed adherence.
- Pour birdseed onto a plate or shallow dish.
- Roll the peanut butter-coated tube in the birdseed, pressing down gently to ensure it sticks well.
Hanging Mechanism
- Cut a piece of string or twine, about 1-2 feet long.
- Thread through one end of the roll and tie a knot to create a loop for hanging.
Final Step
- Find a suitable spot outdoors, preferably near a window or a comfortable viewing area.
- Hang the feeder from a tree branch, post, or hook.