Birds Love Pumpkins Too! DIY Feeder Ideas

Halloween is over, and you might be wondering what to do with your leftover pumpkins. Instead of tossing them out, why not turn them into bird feeders? It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to give your pumpkins a second life and help out your feathered friends. Here’s how you can transform your Halloween pumpkins into delightful bird feeders.

What You'll Need

•  A leftover pumpkin (any size will do)
• A knife
• A spoon
• Twine or string
• Birdseed
• A stick or dowel (optional)   

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pumpkin: Start by cutting the top off your pumpkin, just like you did when you carved it for Halloween. Scoop out all the seeds and pulp using a spoon. You can save the seeds to roast for yourself or to add to the bird feeder later.
2. Create the Feeder: Once your pumpkin is cleaned out, you have a few options for turning it into a bird feeder. For a simple hanging feeder, poke two holes near the top of the pumpkin on opposite sides. Thread a piece of twine or string through the holes and tie a knot to create a hanger. If you want to add a perch for the birds, poke a small hole near the bottom of the pumpkin and insert a stick or dowel.
3. Fill with Birdseed: Fill the hollowed-out pumpkin with birdseed. You can also mix in some of the pumpkin seeds you scooped out earlier. Birds love a variety of seeds, so feel free to get creative with your mix.
4. Hang It Up: Find a sturdy tree branch or hook to hang your pumpkin bird feeder. Make sure it’s in a spot where you can easily watch the birds enjoy their new treat. If you made a perch, position it so the birds can easily land and access the seeds.
5. Enjoy the Show: Sit back and watch as birds flock to your pumpkin feeder. You might see a variety of species, from chickadees and sparrows to cardinals and blue jays. It’s a great way to observe nature up close and provide a valuable food source for birds as the weather gets colder.

Tips and Tricks

• Keep It Fresh: Pumpkins can start to rot, especially if they’ve been carved. Check your feeder regularly and replace it if it starts to get mushy.
• Add Variety: Birds appreciate a mix of seeds, nuts, and dried fruit. Experiment with different combinations to see what attracts the most birds.
• Get Creative: If you have multiple pumpkins, try making different styles of feeders. You can cut out windows, add multiple perches, or even paint the pumpkins with non-toxic paint for a festive touch.

Reusing your Halloween pumpkins as bird feeders is not only fun but also environmentally friendly. It reduces waste and provides a natural food source for birds. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of fall and the joy of birdwatching.

So, before you toss out those pumpkins, give this project a try. Your local birds will thank you, and you’ll get to enjoy a bit of Halloween magic all season long.

Happy crafting and happy birdwatching!