We all know that plastic bottles are too dangerous for the environment, but we still use these in our homes in various ways. It is our duty to minimise the use of plastics, and dispose and reuse them in every possible way.

We have been reusing empty plastic bottles in our crafts every now and then; similarly, today we will reuse a plastic bottle in making the bird feeder.

Since most people are home these days, bird watching and taking note of nature around us is a very good way to keep refreshed and relaxed. And with a birdfeeder outside your house, in the garden or balcony, you will have lots of birds dropping in. Then they can enjoy the feast you offer them and you can enjoy their company.

Things you need:

1. Empty plastic bottle (any of the 1-litre soft drink bottle)

2. Acrylic colours (optional)

3. Paint brush

4. Rope or string (12 to 16-inches)

5. Marker

6. Paper cutter or scissors

7. Single punching machine (optional)

Directions:

1. We will be using the upper and the lower parts of the bottle, the middle is of no use in this craft; so, mark and cut out the upper and lower portion on the bottle, leaving four-inches in between both the markers, see picture 2.

2. Draw a door-like opening on the lower part of the bottle, leaving two-inches from the bottom as shown in picture 3; then cut the marked part out.

3. Colour both the parts of the bottle, this step is optional you can leave the bottle as it is, see pictures 4 and 5.

4. Poke a hole on both sides of the lower portion of the bottle, this is where we will insert the string, see picture 6.

5. Insert the string or rope from both the sides and tie a tight knot, see picture 7.

6. You now have both the parts of the bottle ready, see picture 8.

7. Make another hole in the cap of the bottle, picture 9.

8. Insert the string in the upper part through the cap, picture 10.

9. The bird feeder is ready; however, I gave it some finishing touches by making the designs, pictures 11 and 12.

It’s time to put some grains inside the feeder and hang it in your balcony or any outdoor place where birds can easily come and munch on.

Published in Dawn, Young World, July 25th, 2020