Reuse it
Build a free feeder for your feathered friends
By Josh Patterson (Contact)
Thursday, April 10th, 2008
DIY bird feeder
Here’s a simple way to build a bird feeder using empty two-liter bottles.
What you need:
Two empty two-liter bottles.
Knife
Scissors
String
Toothpicks
Glue
Birdseed
Before you begin, rinse out the bottles and remove the labels.
Start building your birdfeeder by cutting the bottom off of your first 2-liter bottle. This will be the base of the feeder.
Next, use a knife to cut out three feeding holes 2 inches from the bottom of this bottle—right where the bottom of the label would have been. The size of the feeding holes is up to you; the larger the holes the bigger the birds your feeder will attract.
Use the end of your knife to carefully poke holes ½ -inch below the feeding holes for perches. I used toothpicks for perches, but for a more natural look try using twigs or small branches. Secure your perches in place with glue.
This step is optional: To create a hanging feeder, use the end of your knife to poke three equidistant holes 1 inch from the top of the first bottle. Thread string through these holes and tie together.
Fill your second 2-liter bottle with birdfeed and gently slide the first bottle over the second. Leave a 1-inch gap between the opening of the bottle filled with birdseed and the bottom of your feeder to allow for adequate flow. Flip the feeder over and shake to disperse the seed. Hint: Keep the top of the bottle you cut off to use as a funnel to fill the feeder.
And you’re done. Now place your bird feeder at least 6 feet away from tree trunks, limbs and fences that predators, such as cats, can climb.
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