Learn how to make easy DIY pine cone bird feeders perfect for the wildlife in your backyard. Such a fun craft activity for a winter day!
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I have something really fun for you today… We’re in the midst of winter. It’s cold outside, usually looking a little blah. And wildlife still need a little bit of our help getting by during this cold season.
This is where my DIY Pine Cone Bird Feeder comes in.
Remember in elementary school when we learned how to craft these cute little pine cone bird feeders with just a few ingredients? Well, I’m bringing that tradition back today.
I had originally dreamed up something a bit more elaborate and aesthetic, but then I remembered the power of simplicity and how adorable these rustic little DIY bird feeders are. Plus, did I really want to make another trip to the craft store for extra supplies?
To make these, you need just a few things on hand. Peanut butter, foraged pine cones, bird seed, and some yarn or string will do.
In just a matter of minutes you can create several of these to place in trees around your yard. After the bird seed is eaten off, simply remove and reuse these for the same purpose again.
I hope you enjoy this quick DIY afternoon craft project as much as I do! Let’s get into all the details for our Easy DIY Pine Cone Bird Feeders…
Easy DIY Pine Cone Bird Feeder
Reasons to make a pine cone bird feeder
- Easy to make in minutes
- Fun craft to connect kids with art and nature
- Uses supplies you likely already have (or can buy affordably)
- Helps feed wildlife when resources are scarce during cold months (and all year)
- Attracts birds to your yard for bird watching fun and learning
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
Nut allergies are serious. If you’d like to participate in this activity but you or a household member has a nut allergy, swap the nut butter for a seed-based butter. My husband is allergic to nuts and loves sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) so we usually keep this on hand. This is a great, safe alternative that birds will enjoy.
Where is the best spot to hang a DIY pine cone bird feeder?
Really, the most practical spot to hang a bird feeder is a place where birds feel safe to enjoy their snack. Squirrels are notorious for getting into bird feeders, so try to hang it somewhere that prevents squirrels from reaching. You want it to be reachable for you to secure and remove it. It also must be accessible to birds so they will notice it.
In the winter, my hummingbird feeder is stored away, but since the pole for it is still outside I tie my pine cone bird feeders to the hook on it. Birds perch on top of the pole and eat it directly from there. You can also tie them to branches or nestle them into bushes where birds will find them.
Supplies You’ll Need | DIY Pine Cone Bird Feeder
Pine cones
Peanut butter (no sugar added is best)
Bird seed (I like this songbird bird seed mix HERE)
Twine, string, or yarn
Scissors
Butter knife or spoon
Newspaper (to lay down over the tabletop or countertop)
How to Make a DIY Pine Cone Bird Feeder
Start by removing any debris from the pine cones. Shake them off until they’re clean. Do this over a sink, trash can, or newspaper set out on a table.
Next, wrap twine, string, or yarn around the base of the pine cone. Tie a knot and be sure the string is secured tightly.
Now, using a butter knife or spoon, spread the nut/seed butter over the wings of the pine cone. I prefer giving it a thick coat to ensure the birdseed sticks well. The birds won’t complain about the extra nutrition.
Then roll the slathered pine cone in bird seed until it is fully covered.
Place outside in an area where birds will have easy access to it and will be safe from predators.
Tips for Success | DIY Pine Cone Bird Feeder
I recommend tying the string around the pine cones before adding nut butter and seeds. This makes it much less messy. However, it can still be done afterward if you forget.
Use a birdseed that is suitable for the birds native to your area. I like using a mixed birdseed, but this is a great source with more in-depth information about bird seed types.
Place feeders on thinner branches that are too delicate for hefty squirrels to scurry over on. Better yet, select bird seed that does not attract squirrels as much. You can also tie your bird feeder onto thin poles used for hummingbird feeders or wind chimes.
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DIY Pine Cone Bird Feeder
Equipment
- scissors
- newspaper for laying over table/countertop
- butter knife or spoon
Ingredients
- 4 pine cones
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or SunButter
- 1/2 cup birdseed
- 4 4-inch pieces of string yarn or twine works
Instructions
- Start by removing any debris from the pine cones. Shake them off until they’re clean. Do this over a sink, trash can, or newspaper set out on a table.
- Next, wrap twine, string, or yarn around the base of the pine cone. Tie a knot and be sure the string is secured tightly.
- Now, using a butter knife or spoon, spread the nut/seed butter over the wings of the pine cone. I prefer giving it a thick coat to ensure the birdseed sticks well. The birds won’t complain about the extra nutrition.
- Then roll the slathered pine cone in bird seed until it is fully covered.
- Hang outside in an area where birds will have easy access to it and will be safe from predators.
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