How to Make a Bird Feeder Using Yogurt Cups

Nothing is more relaxing than watching wild birds at a feeder. Everything you need to make your own bird feeders is probably in your home, with the exception of bird seed. Making a bird feeder is so simple that a child could do it. It is a good project for scout troops working on birding badges. Making these bird feeders can also be an educational tool to teach youngsters about birds. Experiment with different types of bird seed to see the different species of birds each seed mix attracts. Here are the steps on how to make a bird feeder using yogurt cups.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Single serve yogurt cups (1per feeder) 1/2 cup Lard or suet per feeder (See tip) 1/2 cup bird seed per feeder 12 inches of twine or strong string per feeder 1 Hook per feeder (optional) Scissors Refrigerator Microwave oven

1. Heat the suet or lard in the microwave in a bowl at 30-second intervals. Stir after each 30 seconds until the suet is melted.

2. Combine the suet and the bird seed in a bowl.

3. Put one end of the twine into the bottom of the yogurt cup.

4. Pour the suet and bird seed mixture into the yogurt cup on top of the string. There should be at least 8 inches of string still outside the yogurt cup.

5. Tie the hook onto the free end of the string.

6. Put the filled yogurt cup into the refrigerator for at least one hour, or until the suet is solidified.

7. Carefully cut the yogurt cup from around the suet/bird seed mixture with the scissors.

8. Hang the bird feeder with the hook from a tree outside of a window for best viewing.

Tips & Warnings

• Suet and bird seed can both be found at pet stores or in the pet supply section of most larger supermarkets.
• Do not let children cut the yogurt cup from around the suet/bird seed mixture. Do not hang these bird feeders in exceptionally hot weather (above 90 degrees).