Make Your Own Winter Bird Feeder

It's a little trickier for our feathered friends to find food and water at this time of year. We've created this super simple bird feeder which you can easily make with your children to liven up your garden or hang from a window.

See our step by step guide here on how to make this simple bird feeder.

 It’s good to provide food for the birds all year round but particularly in the winter when their natural food is sparse. Providing a good mixed feed will encourage a number of different species into your garden. Look out for robins, blackbirds, collared doves, woodpigeons and sparrows - they are some of the most common!

What You’ll Need

• A large orange
• Bird Seed (make sure it’s suitable for wild birds)
• 2 Small Sticks
• String

Method

Step 1 - Prepare your orange

First you’ll need to hollow out the orange. This step is very reminiscent of pumpkin carving at Halloween! Cut the top off the orange then circle round the pulp with a knife and scoop out anything that remains with a spoon – this bit should probably be left to the adults! 

Step 2 - Make somewhere for the birds to sit

Next we’re going to make somewhere for the birds to sit while they dine. Pierce a hole in the bottom of the orange using a sharp pencil then feed the stick all the way through. Repeat this step with your second stick, positioning it so the two sticks make a cross. 

Step 3 - Fill your bird feeder with treats

Fill your bird feeder with seed, make sure you pack it in nice and tight to fit as much in as possible.

Step 4 - Hang your bird feeder

Now tie a piece of sting to all four ends of the sticks and then tie them all together with a knot so you can hang your bird feeder. Your bird feeder is ready! Wait for the birds to come and enjoy the feast you’ve laid out for them!  

If you need more ideas, have a look at this brilliant recycled bird feeder guide from RSPB. It's easier to build than you think and you only need a plastic bottle to make it. Now grab a pair of wellies and a waterproof jacket, head outside and see how many species your little birdwatchers can spot. Have fun!