Homemade bird feeders do not have to be expensive or elaborate. There is the approach of using our imagination and letting nature provide the feeders for us.

Think like a bird, feed like a bird, you are a bird. I've got an image of Micheal Caine in my mind, if you are wondering why, the film "Miss Congeniality" will provide the answer. It's a favorite of my wife.
      
Here are two examples of what I mean.

I have to admit that these were the most easy to make bird feeders we've set up in our garden and are equally as effective as any we've bought. And in some cases more so.

So are Homemade Bird Feeders worth It?

We would say YES! They are definitely worth considering especially if we have the time, materials, a few basic tools and some DIY skills. And if we do have a go we may surprise ourselves and soon be making good use of them and reaping the rewards.

_Why does our choice of wild bird feeder matter?

Which one we choose will determine what birds decide to feed from them.

Plus there is most likely more choice than you had imagined.

For instance there is what is called a hanging bird feeder  along with a platform bird feeder, a bird feeder pole and a nyjer bird feeder and others.

Where we hang or position the wild bird feeder is important as the birds will often only feed if they feel secure when feeding from it.
 
Placing a bird feeder within a few meters of cover helps them feel safer.

Food is important to them but so is safety.

Owing to the exploitative nature of most wildlife they take full advantage of any waste food humans discard. Seagulls and Magpies are true masters at this strategy.

Sadly not all this food is good for the local wildlife!

Fact is most food people eat nowadays lacks nutritional value. It will be the same for the wildlife that eats it.

Providing wildlife foods that meet their nutritional needs will help them be healthier and better prepared to meet the rigors of their lives throughout the year.

What wildlife foods they are supplied can make a difference!