Bring Nature to Your Window

Have you ever kept a bird feeder outside your window during Spring and Summer to watch the beautiful birds and mischievous squirrels come down for a nibble?

Of course!  I think that is a must for any household. If not, then you are in luck because I am going to show you some inexpensive and fun ways to bring wildlife to your window.

 Although I think the store bought feeders are fantastic, there is something about creating a nature item yourself that brings a sense of pride when an animals comes in to enjoy the creation you made.  I know when we have our Discovery Days at the Safari Park, the kids go crazy over making something they can "give" nature and watch them enjoy it.

During those cold days when everyone is locked up, these critter feeders are great ways to pass the time, introduce a lesson about migration or adaptation, and further create a connection with the outdoors even if it is too cold to enjoy it.


Many people forget about the abundance of migrating, and winter dwelling, wildlife that would greatly appreciate a free meal. We are lucky enough to have a decently mild winter in Tennessee, so I see birds and squirrels daily. This is a great opportunity to work on your native bird species, photography or just something to pass the day away.

Here are my favorite crafts.  We have to do a lot on a small budget, so the possibilities are endless if you want to fancy your critter feeder up a bit.

Egg Crate Feeder

Supplies:
Bag of Bird Seed
Jar of Peanut Butter (or Honey)
Bowl
Spoon
Egg crate
Hole Punch
String

1. First, we need to create our platform for the animals to perch on and to hold the food.  This can be made out of egg crates that are styrofoam or cardboard. I prefer cardboard as it is biodegradable and won't harm anything if they accidentally take a bite out of it.

2. Place holes in each corner.  These will be used later to string up your creation.

3.  In a bowl, mix bird seed and enough peanut butter (or honey) to coat the seeds .  The amount will depend on how large your egg crate is.  Use a spoon to scoop out tablespoon size portions into each division.

4.  Hang up beside your favorite window and watch the critters feast!



Orange Peel Feeders

Orange
Bird Seed
Peanut Butter or Honey
Bowl
Spoon

1. Mix bird seed and peanut butter (or honey) on a bowl.

2. Cut oranges in half and scoop out fruit.

3.  With a spoon, scoop out mixture and place in empty orange halves.

4. Place in outside windowsill.

5. Enjoy


Pine Cone Feeder

Pine Cone
Peanut Butter or Honey
Bird Seed
String
Paint Brush or plastic knife

1. Paint pine cone with peanut butter or honey.

2. Place over bowl (or sink) and sprinkle bird seed while spinning pine cone.

3.  Repeat until pine cone is well coated.

4. Use string to tie up your creation.



For more DIY Nature Feeders, visit Bright Nest.



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Some of the best conservationists are sitting right in front of you. . .just waiting to be inspired. . . 

Do you have a favorite nature project?  I want to know, so please share below.