How to Make a Homemade Window Bird Feeder

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We love bird watching in our backyard! While we have a few traditional bird feeders, I’ve always wanted a window bird feeder—one that attaches directly to the window so we can see the birds up close. Watching birds feed right outside our window is such a fascinating experience!

This past week, we made our own DIY hanging window bird feeder, and it was incredibly easy—no woodworking required! If you’re like me and prefer duct tape and cardboard over power tools, this project is perfect for you.

Read on to learn how to make your own window feeder so you can observe backyard birds from the comfort of your home! This project can really increased your children’s curiosity about birds.

Supplies for the Homemade Bird Feeder:

Supplies for the DIY Window Bird Feeder

• Half-gallon milk jug (cleaned and dried)
• Command hook (or a strong suction cup)
• String or twine
• Colored duct tape or washi tape (for decoration & reinforcement)
• Bird seed (choose based on your local birds)
• Razor blade or scissors

Steps to Make a Homemade Window Bird Feeder

Step 1: Prepare the Milk Jug

Start with a clean, dry half-gallon milk jug. Using a razor blade or scissors, cut a large rectangular opening on two opposite sides of the jug. These openings create the feeding platform and allow for clear viewing.

Step 2: Decorate & Reinforce the Feeder

Use colored duct tape or washi tape to decorate your feeder! This not only makes it more visually appealing but also strengthens the structure. Get your kids involved—they’ll love personalizing it!

Step 3: Create a Hanging Loop

• Cut one small hole through the top of the jug.
• Thread twine through the hole and the pour spout to create a hanging loop.
• Alternatively, attach a strong suction cup with a string for window mounting.

Step 4: Hang the Feeder on a Window

Attach the feeder to a clean window that will give you a great view of the birds using a command hook or suction cup.

Best placement tips:

• Choose a quiet area with minimal noise and movement.
• If possible, place it under an overhang or eave to help protect it from rain.
• Be patient—it can take a few days for birds to discover a new feeder!

Step 5: Fill with Bird Seed & Watch

• Pour bird seed into the base of the feeder.
• Observe what types of birds visit and how they interact with the feeder.

We just hung it up yesterday, so we haven’t seen any of our backyard birds visit it yet. I will try to snap a picture when we do see a bird eating, though! Right now, here is our view of the bird feeder. (Isn’t our mountain the best?!)

UPDATE:

What We Learned from Our Window Bird Feeder

After having our feeder up for a while, we’ve learned some helpful tips:

• Birds can be shy! Ensure the feeder is in a calm, safe location where they feel comfortable.
• Different seeds attract different birds. Experiment with various seed types, such as black oil sunflower seeds, millet, or suet cakes to see what birds prefer.
• Durability matters. Since this feeder is made of cardboard and tape, it won’t last as long as a wooden or acrylic feeder. Placing it under an overhang helps extend its life. It is best for small birds.
• Birds aren’t the only visitors! Squirrels and other critters may drop by, so be prepared to  clean up some mess.

Our Bird-Watching Experience

Since setting up our homemade window bird feeder, we’ve experienced hours of bird watching and seen a variety of birds, including:
Finches
Bluebirds
Small songbirds
Occasionally, larger birds (though they don’t stay long due to the feeder’s small size).

One unexpected benefit? My kids have learned to observe quietly so they don’t startle the birds. It’s been a great way to nurture patience and appreciation for nature!

Want a Sturdier Window Bird Feeder?

If you love bird watching but want a more durable feeder, I highly recommend this window bird feeder we’ve used for years! It features:

• Strong suction cups (stays secure on a smooth glass window even in wind!)
• A removable seed tray (easy to refill and clean!)
• Drain holes (prevents water buildup!)

It’s a fantastic low-maintenance option for year-round bird watchers. You can find it on Amazon.

More DIY Bird Feeder Ideas

Looking for more ways to attract birds to your yard? Try these fun homemade bird feeder projects:

See also our Homemade Bird Feeders (without Peanut Butter)

And our Recycled Bottle Bird Feeders

Making a homemade window bird feeder is such a fun and simple project that kids can help with! It requires no tools, no nails, and no complicated assembly—just a few basic materials and some creativity.

If you make your own DIY window bird feeder, I’d love to see your pictures! Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Happy bird watching!