In January, we like to reassess the bird feeders in our garden. Some are looking tired, some neglected. With the drop in temperature, the birds need the extra calories, just to get through the nights. We want to help them and attract them to the garden at the same time. Birdwatching is a favourite pastime around here.
Not forgetting that it’s the Big Garden Bird Watch on 24th-25th January. Time to get the birds used to new feeders and encourage the birds to visit. All but the bravest birds, take time to get used to new additions to the garden.
Along with all the different styles of feeders in the shops, we love manufacturing our own. Especially out of recycled materials. This weekend, Eldest gathered up pine cones, peanut butter and seeds to make a feeder or two.
These are ready to go outside. I can see the sparrows queuing up already.
Can’t help thinking that this one almost looks like the head of an interesting beastie. Hope it doesn’t scare them away.
This is a feeder, she made in the Autumn. The robins love it. As I write this, I can see one sifting through the seeds, finding a choice morsel.
Although it hangs in a tree that the house sparrows favour (mobs of them), I am yet to see one of them use it. Maybe its the pink or the flavour. Discerning lot, the sparrows! The feeder has weathered amazingly well.
I hope they like the new pine cone feeders. I suspect more will be made.
Anyone else gearing up for the RSPB’s Big Garden Watch?
(Note: if you make a peanut seed feeder, be sure to hang it somewhere that dogs won’t reach. They like them too……apparently)
Linking up with Outdoor Play Party. Go look at the great tips for looking after wildlife this winter.
We will be doing the Big Garden Watch and have some feeders like that on our to do list!
We look forward to it every January. Such a great idea.
I run a local RSPB wildlife explorer group so we’re having a birdwatch themed session this weekend and will be making bird food balls for the kids to take home and put in their gardens.
That sounds wonderful. I’m sure the children are going to love making them.
i love making those pince cone feeders!
although last time lily and i made some the squirrels came and stole all the pinecones right out of the trees!
Hmm. We have lots of squirrels, who are quite happy to raid the peanut feeders. Hope these don’t suffer the same fate.
We made our first bird feeders this year – so much fun! Love your photos too:0) Thanks for linking up to the #outdoorplayparty – hope to see you back tomorrow.