It is a great way to help birds thrive during spring, as well as improving your chances of seeing native birds around your gardenKatherine McPhillips and Miranda Pell Search and Discover Writer
12:18, 08 Apr 2026
Making your own bird feeder using recycled plastic is a great way to help wildlife and also to see more birds in your garden(Image: Chris Gomersall/PA Wire )
Instead of throwing away old milk cartons or plastic bottles this spring, gardeners are being urged to save them – as they can be used to help birds during the spring months.
According to gardening experts, April can often be the hardest month for birds to survive, as it is warm enough for them to begin nesting, but plants are only just beginning to grow again.
This often means they struggle to find enough insects, seeds, or berries to feed chicks, so parent birds end up leaving their nests for long periods, leaving them vulnerable to predators.
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By taking the time to feed birds in early spring, it is one of the kindest ways gardeners can help their local wildlife, and you do not have to spend money on a new birdfeeder to do so.
Robbie, an experienced gardener and co-founder of Gardening Easy, has shared that making your own birdfeeder takes “less than 10 minutes to put together” when you use a milk carton.
Gardeners can use old milk bottles to build a bird feeder(Image: Yui Mok/PA Wire)
She said: “This bird feeder is rainproof and fun for anyone to make, and also hard for squirrels, rats and mice to get to this feeder, and the birds love it.”
Most households throw or recycle milk cartons every week, but they are ideal for storing bird food because they are completely waterproof. It helps bird as they have an easy source of food close to their nests, so they can stay near their chicks instead of foraging far away.
On top of that, bird feeders encourage birds to nest nearby, so you are more likely to see beloved British birds like robins or even owls around your garden.
Having lots of birds around not only looks beautiful, but they will start feeding on the insects around your plants once the weather gets warmer, and they will act as a natural pest control.
How you can build a milk carton birdfeeder
Thing you need:
Empty milk carton or a large plastic bottleTomato stake (or some type of strong stick)Twine (or some type of strong string)Zip ties or tapeWooden skewers (optional)Scissors
How to build it:
Gardeners will have a higher chance of seeing birds if they build themselves a feeder(Image: InYourArea)
Rinse the milk carton or bottle thoroughly under warm water to remove any remaining liquid, and make sure it is completely dry before you begin crafting.
Use a pair of scissors to cut large holes on each side of the bottle, which will serve as opening windows for the birds. However, make sure there is enough room at the top and bottom of the bottle.
To make a feeder that will go in the ground: Poke a hole below one of the large openings to slide your stick through it. Secure it to the feeder with zip ties or tape to keep it in place.
To make a feeder that can be hung from a tree: Punch two holes near the top of the milk carton. Then thread twine or a similar string through the holes and tie them securely.
Fill the birdfeeder with seeds or any leftover foods that are appropriate for birds to eat, and it is ready to go outside
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