Feeding the Birds and Adding Whimsy to your Garden with Natural Decorations
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Transforming natural elements into whimsical bird feeders and bird baths can infuse your garden with delightful charm, while also showcasing your creativity. Explore these imaginative bird craft ideas for inspiration and watch your garden come to life with avian visitors!
why feeding wild birds sparks joy:
Did you know that seeing or hearing birds can improve your mental health for up to eight hours? Bird watching is a tradition as old as time itself, though many have returned to the practice of birdwatching or “birding” increasingly as we have entered in an era of noticing the little things post-pandemic. One thing that I have noticed in my conversations with people of retired age, especially women, is how they never really took the time to notice the birds or stopped to watch them. I think that this sentiment applies to many little things that are happening around us each day that we are generally too rushed to stop and see. For me, birdwatching just this past spring has sparked so much joy and calmness in me. I have become increasingly interested in sitting outside and simply listening to help reset my ADHD mind, which is constantly going, going, going.
Sweet & Simple Grapevine feeder:
Add rustic elegance using a grapevine wreath, which can be transformed into various garden elements including a bird feeder. In this design, grapevine is artfully entwined around a shallow ceramic bowl, while simple twine suspend the bird feeder gracefully from a branch. Finish off the feeder with an antique plate, which you can easily find for a decent price at your local thrift store.
To make this feeder, you will need:
A Grapevine Wreath, about 4 to 8-inches (10 to 20-cm) in diameter.
Weaving a Whimsical Feeder:
You can embrace the beauty of willow branches by handcrafting a distinctive bird feeder. What makes this feeder truly delightful is its seamless integration into the natural surroundings of a tree's branches, offering both practicality and charm to your avian visitors. This also helps with protection from predators, and it can be easily composted when the willow begins to rot away.
You can learn how to make this Willow Bird Feeder in my post with step-by-step photos and links to supplies.
Using what you have:
Utilizing branches from a pine tree felled during winter, I fashioned them into a tripod formation. Balancing a terracotta saucer atop this rustic ensemble, I managed to create a versatile feeder or bird bath, seamlessly blending function with natural aesthetics. This was incredibly simple to make, and it has worked beautifully for the wild birds who enjoy a more open surface to feast on their seeds!
To make this feeder, you will need:
Fallen Branches, about 2 to 3-inches (5 to 8-cm) in diameter
Jute or Hemp Rope, 1/2-inch (1-cm) thick
Terracotta Saucer or Vintage Plate, for a feeder, about 10-inches (25-cm)
Ceramic Bowl, for a bird bath
Final Thoughts:
I hope that you feel the magic of nature as you unleash your creativity by transforming natural elements from your yard and garden into whimsical bird feeders and baths. With these ideas, you can begin to imagine these imaginative bird craft ideas as inspiration for your own outdoor space. By summer, your garden may blossom into a haven for avian visitors, adding a touch of enchantment to your outdoor bird sanctuary.
xoxo Kayla
