Bird feeder

Connect your kids with nature with this easy bird feeder art and craft kids activity. It’s simple to construct and you and your kids can watch the birds eat from it once you are done.

What you need:

• natural found items (leaves, bark, gum nuts)
• a 1L milk carton (washed)
• stapler
• hole punch
• a loop of string (any size)
• scissors
• PVA glue
• a dish for glue
• a brush for glue
• bird food from a pet store

Number of players:
1+

Activity:

Have your child collect leaves, bark, gum nuts or other natural findings from your backyard or even the park, and explain what you intend to make with them – you may even spot birds whilst you are both outside.

Staple the top of the carton together.

Punch a hole in the top of the carton and thread the string through, tying a knot to create a loop to hang the bird feeder.

Cut out an insert/hole towards the base of the carton.

Using PVA glue, get your child to stick the natural found items to the bird feeder, to create a feeder that can blend in with the natural environment by mimicking the birds’ natural habitat.

Let it dry.

Fill the base with bird food and hang on a tree in your garden, or from a high spot on your verandah or balcony.

Notes:

• You may want to make this outside where you can spot birds and so that the mess is easier to clean up.
• Buying waterproof PVA glue will mean your bird feeder will last longer. However PVA can take a while to dry, so it is important to allow drying time.
• Alternatively you can use a stapler or tape, and if real leaves are proving challenging to work with then cut out some leaves from green paper.
• This activity can be educational if you find out some facts to share whilst making the bird feeder, about your local bird population.
• It also provides the opportunity for you and your child to work together and an experience that can last several days as you check if the bird food has been eaten.