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.

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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

Drilling holes in the log
Drilling holes in the log

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

Stuffing suet into the cracks
Stuffing suet into the cracks

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

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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.

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Kate Bradbury says

Over time, wood-boring beetles and other insects will colonise the log, further enhancing its value to birds.
Kate Bradbury
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