Creating hanging birdseed feeders is a lovely, hands-on activity that connects seniors with nature and encourages gentle participation. This no-bake craft is simple to prepare, uses low-cost materials, and can be enjoyed individually or as a small group activity.
Once complete, the feeders can be hung outdoors where residents can watch birds visit over the following days — a great conversation starter and a rewarding visual outcome.
What You’ll Need
- Birdseed (mixed seed works well)
- Unflavoured gelatine (powder)
- Warm water
- Cookie cutters or small paper cups
- String or twine
- Spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Baking paper or a tray
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Gelatine
Combine 1 pack of gelatin with ¼ cup of boiling water. Stir until the powder is completely dissolved
2. Add the Birdseed
Mix in ¾ cup of birdseed. Stir thoroughly until the gelatin is well incorporated throughout the seeds.
3. Fill the Moulds
Place cookie cutters or molds on a craft mat or parchment paper. Scoop the mixture in, pressing down firmly to pack the seeds into every corner
Note: Use a skewer or the end of a spoon to poke a hole at the middle of each to create a pre-made hole for the string later.
4. Harden the Feeders:
Let the molds sit for a few hours to harden, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the process
5. Remove from Molds:
Carefully pop the hardened birdseed shapes out of the cookie cutters. Thread your string or twine through the pre-made hole in the center; use a threaded needle to poke through the hole if needed to make it easier.
6. Hang Outdoors
Once set, remove the feeders from the moulds and hang them on tree branches, garden hooks, or balcony rails.
Video Tutorial
If you prefer to follow along with a visual guide, check out this excellent video tutorial
A Simpler Alternative: Pine Cone Bird Feeders
If you’re short on time or supplies, this version is even easier:
- Tie string securely to a pine cone
- Spread peanut butter over the surface
- Roll the cone in birdseed
- Hang outside for birds to enjoy
Activity Tips for Aged Care
- Set this up as a table-based group activity with shared bowls of seed
- Pre-tie strings if dexterity is limited
- Use conversation prompts like “What birds do you remember seeing as a child?”
- Follow up by checking feeders together over the next few days
This simple craft offers a calm, meaningful way for seniors to engage with nature, enjoy gentle creativity, and share in a shared outdoor experience — with very little preparation required.
More Ways to Connect with Nature
If you and your residents enjoyed making these bird feeders, why not keep the theme going?
Here are a few activities we recommend from Memory Lane Therapy that pair perfectly with your new feeders:
- Pet Quiz & Reminiscing Questions: This is a lovely group quiz activity.
- Animal “What Am I?” Quiz: A fun, low-pressure game.
- Drying and Pressing Flowers: Since you’re already out in the garden hanging feeders, why not collect a few fallen leaves or blooms to press?
Download your printable PDF copy of Hanging Birdseed Feeders (No Bake Activity for Seniors)
