DIY Bird Seed Hanger

When a seed feeder is left within reach of certain animals, such as cats or squirrels, the birds it was intended for may never get a chance to enjoy the food. Creating your own birdseed hanger makes it possible to feed the birds while keeping the seed out of reach of other animals. It is simple, straightforward, and allows for the customization of bird seed treats and other snacks.

  1. Materials

    • Gather the materials you need for this endeavor. This project requires containers in any different shapes and sizes you like, as well as tin foil, twine, suet or rendered fat, bird seed and other treats for wild birds. You will also need a tool to cut holes in the tin foil, and kitchen equipment for heating the suet or rendered fat.

    Preparation

    • Mold a piece of tin foil to fit in the bottom of your container, then poke a hole through the center. Tie a knot in a piece of twine and feed it through the hole from bottom to top. The knot should be resting on the bottom of the foil. Replace the foil in the container. This will protect your container from the bird seed treat and will make removal of the treat easier. Home expert Danny Lipford recommends replacing the tin foil with cupcake papers for smaller suet feeders.

    Birdseed Treat

    • Melt the fat gently in a saucepan on the stove using low heat, or melt it slowly in the microwave within 30-second increments. Once it has reached a completely liquid state, remove it from the heat and begin to stir in the seeds and other treats into the fat, until it is all mixed together well. Now the mixture is ready to be spooned into the containers. The twine should stick out of the top of each like a candle wick.

    Finishing Up

    • Refrigerate each treat for one hour or more until hardened. Lipman suggests freezing any extra treats, so they stay fresh and can be used at a later date. Remove the linings from the solid suet feeders, and then tie the twine up in cool and shady spots where squirrels or cats won't have a chance at stealing your wild bird's food.