Make a suet and nut log feeder
Discover how to help your garden birds by creating a nutritious suet and nut log feeder.
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As autumn gives way to winter, garden birds will be on the look out for high-energy foods to build up the fat reserves they need to survive the bitter weather. Give them a helping hand with a log feeder that is easy to make and suits the natural foraging behaviour of species such as tits, nuthatches and treecreepers.
You Will Need
- An old log (30-50cm long)
- Drill
- Wood drill bit
- Suet
- Unsalted peanuts
- Mixed bird seed
- Wire cutters
Total time: 30 minutes
Step 1
Choose an old log - the more cracks and crevices, the better. Hold it steady and drill additional holes along the length of the log. Take care not to make them too deep.
Step 2
Stuff the cracks and holes with suet, bird seed and unsalted peanuts. Wrap a length of wire round each end of the log. Twist the wires together to make a hanging loop.
Step 3
Hang the log feeder in a high, sheltered position, out of reach of cats. Make several feeders to hang in different parts of the garden. Refill as necessary.
Kate Bradbury says
Over time, wood-boring beetles and other insects will colonise the log, further enhancing its value to birds.