Birds are essential members of our ecosystem, contributing to pollination and insect control. Feeding them is not only a rewarding experience but also helps support local bird populations. However, traditional bird feeders often involve plastic or non-biodegradable materials, which can harm the environment. 

Let’s see how to create an eco-friendly bird feeder using toilet paper or paper towel tubes, allowing you to make a positive impact on both birds and the planet!

Gather Your Earth-Friendly Supplies

To get started, gather the following materials:

Empty toilet paper or paper towel tubes

Natural twine or jute string

Eco-friendly glue (such as homemade glue made from flour and water)

Birdseed mixture (avoid using seeds treated with harmful chemicals)

Scissors

Wooden dowel or stick (optional)

Crafting an Eco-Conscious Bird Feeder: Step-by-Step Guide

Collect empty toilet paper or paper towel tubes. Ensure they are clean and free from any remaining paper or adhesive.

If you wish to add perches for the birds to land on while feeding, cut small holes near the bottom of the tube. Make two opposite cuts and insert a wooden dowel or stick through the holes. This step is entirely optional, as some birds are comfortable feeding while perched on the edge of the tube.

Cut a length of natural twine or jute string, approximately 12-18 inches long. This will serve as the hanger for your bird feeder. Tie each end of the string around the tube securely, ensuring it will support the weight of the feeder and the birds.

Using eco-friendly glue, apply a thin layer along the outside of the tube. You can also use the homemade flour-water paste to stick the seeds directly to the tube. Be creative with the glue application; you can make spirals, patterns, or completely cover the tube – the more seeds stick, the better!

Hold the tube over a bowl or tray filled with the birdseed mixture. Sprinkle the seeds generously onto the glue, gently pressing them in to ensure they adhere well. Rotate the tube to cover all sides evenly.

Once you finish coating the tube with birdseed, allow it to dry completely. Hang the feeder in a dry, warm place for a few hours to ensure the seeds and glue set properly.

Find a suitable location to hang your eco-friendly bird feeder. Ideally, place it in a spot where birds can easily spot it, but also away from predators and strong winds. A tree branch or a hook on your porch are excellent options.

To keep your bird feeder eco-friendly, remember to refill it with birdseed regularly. Clean it occasionally to remove any mold or mildew that may form from damp seeds or rainwater.

Embrace Eco-Friendly Bird Feeding and Foster a Greener Tomorrow

Crafting an eco-friendly bird feeder using toilet paper or paper towel tubes is a simple yet impactful way to support local bird populations while reducing your environmental footprint. By using biodegradable materials and natural seeds, you can create a sustainable feeding station that not only nourishes our feathered friends but also respects and protects the world around us. Enjoy the sight of colorful birds visiting your eco-friendly bird feeder and take pride in your contribution to a greener planet.