Easy DIY Easter Egg Bird Feeder Project You Can Do Today

Easter brings a burst of colors, cheerful festivities, and yes, bird feeders! This year, my daughter took on a delightful DIY project that went beyond the usual egg hunt: she created a lovely DIY Easter egg bird feeder. This activity was not only enjoyable but also a wonderful opportunity for her to earn her Animal Helper Discovery Badge with Girl Guides.

As a parent, I always seek ways to blend learning with creativity, and this project was perfect for that. It not only taught her the significance of helping local wildlife, but also allowed her to showcase her artistic talents. The idea for the egg bird feeders came from my oldest daughter, who inspired us to take on this fun project.

Why Gelatin and Birdseed?

Before we dive into the process, let’s talk about the “why” behind this project. Gelatin acts as a natural binder, holding the birdseed together in a sturdy and weather-resistant form. It’s also completely safe for birds to consume. Birdseed, of course, provides them with essential nutrients and energy, especially crucial during springtime nesting season. This combination offers a wholesome and appealing food source for a variety of birds.

What You’ll Need:

• Gelatin: Unflavored gelatin is the key ingredient to holding everything together.
• Birdseed: Choose a mix that’s appealing to the birds in your area.
• Hot Water: For dissolving the gelatin.
• Easter Egg Molds or Silicone Molds: These will give your feeder its shape. You can find these at most craft stores or at the Dollarama.
• String or Twine: To hang your delightful creations.
• Mixing Bowl: To prepare the mixture.
• Spoon or Spatula: For stirring.
• Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil : For easier removal.

Let’s Get Started!

1. Prepare the eggs: Lightly spray them with non-stick cooking spray. This will help the bird feeders pop out easily once they’re dry.
2. Dissolve the Gelatin: In your mixing bowl, follow the gelatin packet instructions to dissolve the gelatin in hot water. Typically, it’s two packages of gelatin to 1/2 cup of hot water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear.
3. Add the Birdseed: Now, dump in your birdseed! You’ll want a good ratio of birdseed to gelatin. Start with about 2 1/2 cups of birdseed and add more if needed, until the mixture is thick and the birdseed is well coated. It should be like a lumpy, sticky paste.
4. Fill the Molds: Carefully spoon the birdseed mixture into your Easter egg molds, pressing it down firmly to ensure it fills all the nooks and crannies. Before filling the molds completely form a loop of string or twine and bury the loose ends into the birdseed mixture ensuring a portion of the loop is visible above the mixture for hanging later.
5. Let Them Dry: Place the molds on a baking sheet or muffin tray and let them dry completely. This usually takes at least 24 hours, or even longer depending on the humidity. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel hard and solid. If they are still soft, let it dry longer.
6. Remove from Molds: Gently pop the bird feeders out of the molds. If they’re sticking, try running a thin knife around the edges.
7. Hang and Enjoy! Find a suitable spot in your garden or on your balcony to hang your Easter egg bird feeders. Now, sit back and enjoy watching the birds flock to your festive and delicious creation!

Tips:

You can add other ingredients like peanut butter, dried fruit, or nuts for added nutritional value and attraction.

Experiment with shapes: You can use cookie cutters to create different shapes for your bird feeders. Simply press the cookie cutter into a flat layer of the birdseed mixture and let it set.

Tip: Let dry once you unmold for an additional day to harden.

Why This Project is Perfect for the Animal Helper Badge:

This activity directly aligns with the goals of the Animal Helper Discovery badge. It teaches girls about:

• Animal Welfare: By providing a food source, we are directly contributing to the well-being of local birds.
• Habitat Enhancement: Bird feeders can help support bird populations in areas where natural food sources are scarce.
• Observation Skills: Watching the birds that visit your feeder encourages observation and appreciation of nature.
• Responsibility: Regularly refilling the feeder and keeping it clean teaches responsibility and care for animals.

Beyond the Badge:

This project wasn’t just about earning a badge; it was about fostering a love for nature and inspiring a commitment to conservation.

This Easter, go beyond the chocolate and candy. Create something truly special for the birds in your backyard with these delightful Easter egg bird feeders.  It’s a simple, fun, and rewarding way to connect with nature and celebrate the season of renewal!