Create A Bird Feeder Out Of An Empty Milk Carton With This Easy DIY

While there are many great store-bought bird feeders available, buying one of them will deprive you and your kids of a fun DIY project. Making a DIY bird feeder is simple and can be a lot of fun for both kids and adults. While you may already know how to turn a gallon milk jug into a bird feeder, you can also use an empty milk carton.

To do this, you'll want to start by choosing a milk carton and painting it a single color all over. Remember to make your color choice wisely. Silver and green are great colors to consider and do a particularly good job of attracting birds throughout the year. On the other hand, some colors are less effective. White, for example, serves as a warning to birds and can deter them, so it isn't the ideal color to paint a bird feeder. 

After painting the feeder, let it dry, and then cut a hole toward the top of the carton on one side. Add any drawings or decoration you'd like using a marker or washi tape. You'll also need to create a small hole below the opening of the carton using a pencil. Insert a twig or another perch here. Next, poke a couple of holes at the top, and push a string through them so you can hang the feeder in your chosen location. When all else is complete, fill the milk carton with your chosen birdseed type, and simply enjoy watching as birds stop by.

To make the most of your milk carton bird feeder, be sure to give it plenty of attention as time goes on. First of all, think carefully about the best place to hang a bird feeder in your yard, placing it somewhere you'll be able to watch it and where birds will feel safe. If it doesn't work well in one location, you may want to try moving it to another spot. Remember to keep an eye on the birdseed and refill the feeder often, making it a part of your regular routine. Consider the types of birdseed you use carefully, and do some research on the birds you would like to attract. Choose a birdseed type that will most effectively attract the bird you're interested in.

You should also be sure to keep your bird feeder clean so it doesn't become unattractive to birds. Bacteria can grow in a dirty feeder and could negatively affect the birds who visit it. Be aware that although milk cartons make great feeders, they aren't as durable as other options — you may need to replace this DIY bird feeder eventually. Keep an eye on it, and add a new one if needed. Fortunately, it's not too difficult to make a replacement milk carton bird feeder when the time comes.