Fresh water is essential for butterflies. Make this grapevine wreath water feeder and attract beneficial pollinators to your garden.
If you are interested in mason bee houses or nesting boxes, this has tips.
Water Feeder for Bees, Birds, and Butterflies
Sometimes the simplest ideas work best! I made this water feeder from an old grape vine wreath, a pie plate, and some stones. Hang it with twine and add water and you’re all set.
Minutes after I first hung it up I saw a goldfinch and butterfly both stop by to check it out. Soon after a mourning dove gave it a try but soon realized she was better off at the pond.
If you live in an area with limited fresh water or prone to droughts, providing fresh clean water is essential for all the living creatures that bring our gardens (and nature) to life.
Save the free instructions to save on your phone or computer or keep reading for all the details.
DIY Bird & Butterfly Water Feeder Supplies
This project is super simple. Some links go to my Amazon affiliate account but I always suggest checking your cupboards or local thrift shop first.
- Grape vine wreath
- Glass pie plate (choose one that sits snugly in your grape vine wreath)
- Twine
- River rocks or stones
Assembly Tips
You could sit this feeder on a stand (an old birdbath, plant stand, or chair) or hang it from a tree branch or garden pole. It also works as a puddler on the ground.
I cut 4 pieces of twine and tied each one around a section of the wreath. I joined all of the twine pieces together at the top and hung the whole thing from a branch.
The glass pie plate is filled with river rocks to give the visitors places to stand (without submerging in the water).
The plate is not attached so it’s easy to remove, wash, and refill each day.
As mentioned, if you have room, hang it in a location away from feeders and other busy bird hangouts.
Yes, it’s that easy.
Related: How to Hand-feed Wild Birds
Maintenance Tips
- Wash the pie plate (and stones) and change the water regularly to prevent the spread of disease.
- The twine will probably need to be replaced once or twice a year, depending on wear and tear.
I hope you will make one. Mine is a favorite spot in the garden for plenty of birds, butterflies, and chipmunks.
~Melissa the Empress of Dirt ♛