How to Make Your Own Bird Feeding Syringe

There are many reasons why a young bird or hatchling may be found on the ground rather than in the nest. It could have simply fallen out or have been abandoned, orphaned or evicted by more aggressive birds. Hand-rearing a chick is not a task that should be taken lightly; young birds require almost constant attention. A feeding syringe is one of the most important pieces of equipment required.

Things You'll Need

  • 3ml plastic syringe
  • Drill
  • 1/8-inch drill bit
  • Vise
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the syringe from its sterilized packaging and pull out the metal needle. You should be able to easily remove the needle by hand, but if it is tight, use pliers.

    • 2

      Secure the syringe needle opening in a vise. Do not over-tighten the vise and damage the plastic of the syringe.

    • 3

      Enlarge the hole in the syringe by drilling into the plastic tube where the needle was with an electric drill, using a 1/8 drill bit. This will not take much pressure, so be careful not to damage the inside of the syringe. This larger hole will allow liquids and some solids to be passed to the bird.