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How to Make Bird Feeders From Plastic Milk Jugs

How to Make Bird Feeders From Plastic Milk Jugs

longhorndave; Flicker.com

Observing birds at a backyard feeder provides birders with an opportunity to practice identification before going out to the field. Making a simple bird feeder from a plastic milk jug is an inexpensive way to attract birds for observation. The wide opening of the milk jug allows for a wide variety of feeds to be used to attract several different species of birds.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Milk jug
  • Chopstick or small wooden dowel
  • Marker
  • Ruler or measuring tape
  • Scissors
  • Florist wire
  • Hole punch
  • Birdseed
  • Nail or rope
  • Hammer
Step 1
Wash the milk jug with warm, soapy water. Make sure all the milk is washed out of the jug.
Step 2
Draw a rectangle 3 inches high and 4 inches wide on the side of the milk jug opposite from the handle. The rectangle should be 2 inches from the bottom of the milk jug.
Step 3
Puncture the milk container with the sharp end of the scissors on the line. Cut out the rectangle, making an opening for birds to access the food.
Step 4
Punch a small hole with the hole punch on each side of the milk jug between the rectangular feeder opening and the bottom of the milk jug.
Step 5
Thread a chopstick through the holes made with the hole punch. The chopstick should stick out of the milk jug, making perches for visiting birds.
Step 6
Wind florist wire tightly around the neck of the milk jug and make a loop for hanging.
Step 7
Fill the milk jug with bird feed.
Step 8
Hang the milk jug, using a nail or rope, in a tree, preferably one that can easily be seen through a window.

Tips & Warnings

 
Place unsalted peanuts or slices of fruit in the feeder for the occasional bird treat.
 
Wash the milk jug once a week in warm soapy water to prevent the spread of disease.

Resources

Article Written By Jamie Hobbs

Jamie Hobbs graduated from Central Washington University with a BAed. She has been writing for Demand Studios and Suite 101 since 2008. Mrs. Hobbs work has also been printed in Yakima Family Times.

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