ever catch yourself staring out the window and thinking, “Man, I wish more birds would hang around my yard”? I’ve been there, cup of coffee in hand, hoping to spot some birds, only to see…nothing. It’s frustrating. But guess what? You don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy diy bird feeder from recycled materials. You can make something simple and effective right at home.
With this diy bird feeder from recycled materials guide, you can use items sitting around the house. Yep, that empty milk jug or toilet paper roll has more potential than you think. I’ve tried a bunch of DIY feeders over the years, and some work like magic while others…well, let’s just say the squirrels have a field day. In this guide, I’ll walk you through seven easy, creative projects using stuff you probably already have. Ready? Let’s get feeding 🙂.
Make a DIY Bird Feeder Using Recycled Materials
Creating your own DIY bird feeder from recycled materials is easier than you think, and it’s a fun way to get birds visiting your yard. Using just a few items you probably have lying around, you can craft feeders that attract a variety of feathered friends. Below, I’ve included seven inspiring projects, complete with photos, to get your backyard buzzing with activity.
Show Transcript
0:00
Today we are going to do something that’s not just good for the planet, but also incredibly rewarding.
0:02
We’re going to take a look at your recycling bin and turn some everyday items into a beautiful garden sanctuary for birds.
0:13
You know that feeling, right? You look out into your yard. You’ve maybe got some nice plants, and you’re just waiting for that little flash of color, that cheerful chirping…
0:24
But nothing. The yard is just quiet. It can be kind of frustrating.
0:27
Well, what if I told you the answer isn’t something you have to go out and buy?
0:31
The secret to creating a bird paradise is probably sitting in your house right now, just waiting to be repurposed.
0:39
We’re going to show you how to do it without spending a single cent.
0:44
Think of this as your personal toolkit for turning what most people see as trash into an absolute treasure trove for your future feathered friends.
What You Can Use
0:52
So, what’s on the shopping list? You don’t even have to leave the house.
0:56
Plastic jugs, toilet paper rolls, empty bottles, cereal boxes—you name it.
1:01
Pine cones from the yard, old tin cans, even a charming old teacup.
1:06
I bet you have at least one of these right now.
Milk Jug Feeder
1:10
Let’s start with a classic: the milk jug feeder.
1:13
It’s so simple and surprisingly durable.
1:15
Cut two holes, one on each side. Slide a couple of wooden spoons through for perches. Fill it with seed, and boom—you’re ready to hang it.
1:25
Robins and sparrows love this one because it gives them a sturdy place to land.
1:30
Pro tip: hang it somewhere shaded to keep the seed fresh.
Quick Projects for Kids
1:35
The milk jug is great, but maybe you want a super fast or fun project to do with kids.
1:44
Enter the peanut butter duo. Take a toilet paper roll, slather it in natural peanut butter, roll it in seeds, and you’re done in two minutes.
1:51
Or go classic with a pine cone feeder. Both are magnets for smaller birds, and that high-fat peanut butter is a huge energy boost in cold months.
2:04
Heads up: water plus peanut butter equals a goopy mess. Hang them in a sheltered spot.
Plastic Bottle Feeder
2:15
If your goal is to attract a crowd, the plastic bottle feeder is your go-to.
2:20
Poke holes, add several perches, and lots of birds can eat at once.
2:27
It turns your backyard into a tiny bird festival at zero cost—just an old bottle and some skewers.
2:36
One source mentioned seeing five different bird species on a single bottle feeder at the same time. That’s a party.
Creative Ideas
2:49
You can match feeders to your garden’s vibe and your local birds.
2:55
A cereal box gives a wide platform for hopping birds like jays—watch out for squirrels!
3:03
An old teacup and saucer can look whimsical, but rain may wash seeds away.
3:09
Tin cans are sturdy and great for clinging birds like chickadees. Be careful with sharp edges.
Secret to Success
3:17
You’ve built your awesome new feeder. Now what? How do you make it a five-star restaurant that birds will visit again and again?
3:26
Think like a bird. Placement is everything. Hang feeders at different heights to reduce competition.
3:41
Keep them clean. This is crucial for bird health.
3:46
Mix up your feeder types to attract a variety of species.
3:52
And please, avoid human snacks like bread—it has almost no nutritional value and can harm them.
Final Takeaway
4:03
With these ideas, your backyard could be buzzing with chirps and fluttering wings in no time.
4:09
Take a look around your house, peek into your recycling bin, and ask yourself:
4:15
What do I have right here that could become a bird’s favorite new restaurant tomorrow?
1. The Classic Milk Jug Feeder
Materials You’ll Need
- Empty plastic milk jug
- Sharp knife or scissors
- Wooden spoons or dowels
- String or twine
- Birdseed
How to Make It
- Wash out your jug. You don’t want last week’s milk flavor lingering.
- Cut holes on two sides, just big enough for the spoons to poke through. These act as perches.
- Insert the spoons through the holes. Birds can perch while eating the seeds that fall out.
- Fill with birdseed. Don’t overstuff; we’re not feeding a flock of pigeons here.
- Tie the string around the handle and hang it somewhere visible.
Why It Works
Birds love perches at multiple angles. Milk jugs are durable, lightweight, and easy to hang. I’ve had robins, sparrows, and even a cheeky blue jay use mine, and it barely cost a dime.
Pro Tip: Keep it shaded. Sun can warp the plastic and cook your seeds. Nobody likes crunchy sunflower seeds.
2. Toilet Paper Roll Peanut Butter Feeder
Materials You’ll Need
- Empty toilet paper roll
- Peanut butter (unsalted is best)
- Birdseed
- String
How to Make It
- Spread peanut butter all over the roll. Don’t be stingy—birds love it.
- Roll it in birdseed until fully coated.
- Thread the string through the center and hang on a tree branch.
Tip: Use natural, unsalted peanut butter with no sugar or preservatives. Birds love it, and it’s safe for them.
Why It Works
It’s simple, fast, and birds go nuts for peanut butter. I made one on a whim last winter, and within an hour, chickadees had discovered it. Just don’t leave it out too long in the rain, peanut butter + water = sticky mess that even the birds avoid.
Extra Tip: Mix in some crushed nuts if you want to attract bigger birds like cardinals.
3. Plastic Bottle Feeder with Perches
Materials You’ll Need
- Any empty plastic bottle (juice bottles work well)
- Wooden skewers or sticks
- Knife or scissors
- Birdseed
How to Make It
- Cut holes near the bottom and mid-section for perches.
- Insert skewers horizontally. Birds will land and peck at the holes.
- Fill with birdseed through the top.
- Hang it from a tree branch or porch hook.
Why It Works
Multiple perches mean more birds can feed at once. This design works well if you live in a neighborhood with a lot of small birds fighting for seeds.
Personal Note: I once put one of these feeders outside and counted five species at the same time. It felt like a tiny bird festival.
4. Cereal Box Platform Feeder
Materials You’ll Need
- Empty cereal box
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
- String
- Birdseed
How to Make It
- Cut the top flaps off the box.
- Tape the edges for extra support.
- Punch holes in the corners and thread string to hang.
- Fill with birdseed. Birds can land on the flat surface and munch away.
Why It Works
Flat platform feeders attract larger birds that prefer to hop around rather than cling. I’ve had jays and finches enjoying these at the same time. Just watch out for squirrels, they think cereal boxes are all-you-can-eat buffets.
Quick Tip: Place it away from edges where predators might sneak up. Your birds will thank you.
5. Teacup and Saucer Hanging Feeder
Materials You’ll Need
- Old teacup and saucer
- Strong adhesive or wire
- String or chain
- Birdseed
How to Make It
- Attach the cup to the saucer using adhesive or wire.
- Drill a small hole in the cup for the string, if using wire.
- Fill the cup with seeds.
- Hang it in a tree or from a porch ceiling.
Why It Works
It’s cute, classy, and perfect if you like a touch of whimsy in your garden. Honestly, it looks so good, I sometimes forget it’s for birds and just admire it myself.
Pro Tip: Heavy rain can wash seeds away, so put it under a light overhang or cover.
6. Pinecone Feeder with Peanut Butter
Materials You’ll Need
- Pinecones
- Peanut butter
- Birdseed
- String
How to Make It
- Tie string to the top of the pinecone.
- Spread peanut butter into all the nooks and crannies.
- Roll it in birdseed until fully coated.
- Hang it from a branch.
Tip: Use natural, unsalted peanut butter with no sugar or preservatives. Birds love it, and it’s safe for them.
Why It Works
This is a classic for a reason, birds love it. It’s small, portable, and messy in the best way. I used this last winter and even had squirrels attempt an awkward mid-air landing. They failed, the birds won.
Extra Note: If your pinecones are dry, spritz them lightly with water before applying peanut butter to help it stick better.
7. Tin Can Feeder with a Twist
Materials You’ll Need
- Empty tin can
- Nail and hammer (or screwdriver)
- String or wire
- Wooden spoon or small branch
- Birdseed
How to Make It
- Poke a few holes near the bottom for drainage.
- Hammer two holes on opposite sides near the top for hanging.
- Insert a spoon or stick as a perch.
- Fill with seeds and hang it outdoors.
Why It Works
Tin cans are sturdy, and the perch makes it easy for birds to land. Plus, it’s fun seeing how many species you can attract. I’ve noticed chickadees love these, and even sparrows won’t pass them up.
Quick Tip: Paint the can if you want it to blend with your garden or just look pretty. Non-toxic paint only, FYI.
Extra Tips for All DIY Feeders
- Placement is key. Hang feeders where birds feel safe, but you can still enjoy watching them.
- Keep it clean. Wash out peanut butter feeders and milk jugs regularly to prevent mold.
- Mix it up. Different birds prefer different feeders. Offering variety increases your bird traffic.
- Watch the weather. Some materials like cardboard or thin plastic degrade fast outdoors. Keep an eye on them.
Common Questions
Q: Can I use leftover food for bird feeders?
A: Sure, but avoid salty or sugary foods. Birds don’t need human snacks. Stick to seeds, peanuts, or unsweetened grains.
Q: How often should I refill feeders?
A: Daily if you want consistent visitors, especially in winter. Otherwise, every few days works fine.
Q: Will squirrels steal all the food?
A: Maybe. They’re sneaky little devils. Use squirrel baffles or hang feeders in spots hard for them to reach.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, seven easy DIY bird feeders made from recycled household items. From milk jugs to teacups, the options are endless. Not only do you save money, but you also give your garden a lively, feathered makeover. Birds love variety, and your creativity keeps them coming back.
So grab a peanut butter jar, a pinecone, or that lonely cereal box, and start feeding your backyard friends today. Trust me, the first time a bird lands on your homemade feeder, you’ll feel like you’ve unlocked a tiny piece of nature magic 😊
Happy DIYing, and may your garden be filled with chirps and fluttering wings!
