Scientific Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Aves
Fall is here and winter is around the corner. Many birds are just awaiting the day they leave to migrate south for the winter. Others still are preparing for the harsh winter here in Canada. Whatever the situation, you can make it easier for these birds to survive.
Bird feeders are especially important in the winter time, as it is much more difficult for birds to find food. Nothing is growing, and the snow covers most things. Be a "good neighbor" and leave them some easy pickings...
The most important thing to remember when considering making a homemade bird feeder is that they do not need to be complicated, and they do not need to be expensive.
Probably, one of the easiest ways to attract birds in your garden is by scattering some stale bread in it. However, this can lead to problems with the neighbor's cats knowing that they can have an easy meal whenever they want by waiting for the birds to land and eat, then pouncing on them. Not only that, bread is not a great thing to feed birds, as it has preservatives, yeast, extra salt...Things they don't need or get in the wild.
That's why bird feeders are safer and easier for the birds to eat from, and bird seed, berries, and nuts are a better choice to feed these little creatures.
If you put some bird seed/feed on a tray or plastic plate in your garden, not only will it attract the birds, but you may also find it attracts other types of wildlife, such as squirrels or raccoons.
When using traditional bird feeders, it is easier for squirrels to get a good grip and take the food as well. Also, be sure not to use material that is too smooth to really get a good grip for the birds, especially if you use a small thread/fishing line to hang it.
However, if you want to create an inexpensive, homemade bird feeder that will discourage the squirrels, then you could get a pine cone and slather it with peanut butter, then roll it in bird seed. Hang it from a tree branch with a long piece of string. Squirrels won't be able to hang on to the string, and won't be able to steal the bird food. You could also use this same method with by stringing up apples or berries.
Especially in the fall, when we eat a lot of squash, the hollowed out gourds work well as bird feeders. Feed through some heavy test line for fishing near the top and fill the bottom with seed. Leave some access holes on the surface of the gourd, and Voila...instant feeder.
Certainly, there are many ways of making a homemade bird feeder by using a little creativity. Sure, you could go to your local Do-It-Yourself or garden center to purchase one, but it will probably need assembly, and will be more costly. Take a look around your property, and you will discover a number of materials you could use to make a homemade bird feeder, and a number of places to put one.
Even if you don't make your own feeder, a store-bought one is great too. The end result is what matters...You're feeding the birds and helping them through a tough season for them.
This should get you brainstorming of the many different and interesting ways to create a bird feeder at home. Have fun!
by Kimberly Edwards
