Recycled Carton Bird Feeder

Making a bird feeder from a recycled carton is a relaxing and rewarding activity that brings joy both during the crafting and later, when you see the birds enjoying your creation.

Object:

• Encourage interaction and sharing
• Boost self-esteem through a creative project

Materials:

• Empty milk or juice cartons (1L or 2L, rinsed and dried)
• Sharp scissors or craft knife (staff/volunteer use only)
• Non-toxic paint, markers, or colored tape
• Black marker
• Strong string
• 2 dowel rods (40 cm each) or straight sticks from outdoors
• Masking tape
• Birdseed

Instructions:

• Give each participant a clean, empty carton.
• Draw a “door” on one side of the carton.
• Cut along three sides of the door, leaving the top attached so it folds open.
• Cover the cut edges with masking tape to make them smooth and safe.
• Decorate the outside with paint, markers, or colored tape. Allow to dry.
• Near the bottom, make two small holes opposite each other. Insert a dowel rod or stick to create a perch.
• Make a hole in the center near the top of the carton. Thread a length of string through the hole and tie a knot inside to hold it securely.
• Use the other end of the string to tie the feeder firmly around a sturdy tree branch so it hangs freely.
• Fill the feeder with birdseed.

Note: Birds may take a little while to discover the feeder. It can sometimes be up to two weeks before they begin visiting - patience is part of the fun!