Colored Bird Feeder Science Project
Science fairs can be competitive, and it is important to have a measurable experiment with a clear hypothesis. The bird feeder preference science project fulfills both of these requirements, can be accomplished in a short period of time, is easily performed by the child without too much help from parents, and is a fun way to learn about nature. Allow yourself at least two days to work on the project from beginning to end because the paint needs to dry before you leave it out for the birds. You don't want the paint fumes to skew your results.
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Things You'll Need
- 4 identical bird feeders
- 3 different colors of paint
- Chains or hooks to hang bird feeders
- Bird seed
- Scale
- Journal
Instructions
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Preparation
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1
Paint three of the four bird feeders each a different color. Keep the fourth bird feeder its original color.
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2
Prepare the hanging area by setting out the chains and hooks where you will place the bird feeders. Place the hanging areas in the same general vicinity, but with at least two feet between each feeder to allow freedom of movement for the birds.
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3
Using the scale, weigh identical amounts of food for each feeder. The amount will depend on the type of bird feeder you are using.
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4
Pour the food into the feeders.
The Experiment
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5
Form your hypothesis by deciding which color feeder the birds will choose to eat from the most often. Write your hypothesis down in your journal.
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6
Set the bird feeders out at the prepared locations in the morning.
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7
Log the time in your journal.
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8
Check your feeders periodically throughout the day to ensure you still have a measurable amount of food in the feeders.
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9
Bring the feeders inside eight hours after placing the feeders for the birds, and record the time in your journal.
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10
Weigh the remaining bird seed from each feeder, and record the weight of the food in the journal.
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11
Compare weight from each feeder to determine the feeder color the birds prefer.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Use the type of feeder that keeps the bird seed enclosed to ensure the birds are actually eating the food rather than spilling it on the ground.
Use a low-fume, nontoxic paint to ensure the paint itself is not deterring the birds.
Hang feeder in an area where birds tend to gather or in the vicinity where a feeder currently hangs. This will ensure the birds can find the feeders.
Make sure the area where you hang the feeder is easily accessible to you or where you can watch from a window so you can make sure the feeders have a measurable amount of food at the end of the day.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit tufted titmouse at feeder image by gregg williams from Fotolia.com
