How to Feed Cheerios to Finches

Finches require a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and grains. Commercial bird feed may only supply one or two types of these nutrients, leaving an imbalance. Whether they are wild birds -- or a pet in your home -- feeding finches a varied diet is essential to their overall health.



A recommended diet for finches, and other small birds, contains 50-percent grain and 45-percent fruits and vegetables. Dairy and calcium should also make up a small portion of the diet. Supplementing the finches' diet with Cheerios is an ideal way to add these nutrients.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper towel roll
  • Hole punch
  • Twine
  • Butter knife
  • Peanut butter
  • Cheerios
  • Wax paper
  • Bird seed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make two holes in the top of the paper towel roll with a hole punch. Position the holes evenly to ensure the finch feeder hangs properly.

    • 2

      Pass the twine through the holes. Loop the twine back on itself and tie a series of knots. Twine resists weather rot, unlike yarn which may cause a malfunction in the feeder.

    • 3

      Spread peanut butter on the outside of the paper towel roll. Use a butter knife and spread the peanut butter 1/4-inch thick. Spreading a thick layer of peanut butter provides a mortar bed for the Cheerios.

    • 4

      Crush one cup of whole grain Cheerios. Spread the Cheerios on wax paper. Position the paper towel roll above the Cheerios and use a blotting motion to pick up the Cheerios crumbs. Add Finch pellets to the mixture for color and variety, if desired.

    • 5

      Hang the finch feeder in a tree, or place it in the bird cage.