Do you have milk jugs that have been used? If so, you can transform it into a bird feeder with a few materials and some birdseed.

Materials:

• Milk jug with cap
• Possible decorations: stickers, bottle caps, milk jug caps, Sharpies or other permanent markers, outdoor acrylic paint, tape for making sharp edges
• Possible tools: scissors, wire cutters, pliers, paintbrushes, garden pruners
• Perch or roof materials: sticks cut to desired length
• Possible adhesives or sealant: non-toxic outdoor white glue, Thermoweb Zots, Outdoor ModPodge
• Possible hanging materials: bendable thick wire, wire clothes hanger, twine, thin rope
• Birdseed, such as black oil sunflower seed

Steps:

1. Wash the inside of the milk jug and cap with soapy water. Rinse well. Try to remove the label — some will peel off easily, but others might be difficult (you can always choose to paint over the stubborn ones, or cut them out).

2. Use scissors to cut “windows” into your milk jug. We liked using the larger sides opposite the handle. Don’t go too low or you will lose seed storage space. If you want to put in a perch, make sure you don’t go too wide with the window, either. Adults will need to help with this step for younger children.

3. Using the pointier end of the scissors, carefully puncture two holes near the top of the jug for the hanger. Try to place the holes in the thicker plastic near the cap. Older kids can probably safely do this, but younger kids will need adult assistance.

4. Cut your hanging material to your desired length and insert it into the holes. If using wire or a wire clothes hanger, use wire cutters to cut the length and pliers to twist the wire inside the milk jug to secure it. Adults will likely need to do this step, including twisting the wire. If using rope or twine, tie a secure knot inside the milk jug.

5. You don’t need to add a perch, but if you want one, there are different styles you can do. Again, parents might need to help younger children with this step.