Composting & DisposalNo. 9254 · The 2026 edition
How to Recycle Pumpkins for Birds and Wildlife
Give your jack-o'-lantern a second life by turning it into a feast for feathered and furry friends.
Our own summary of the original — the full post and photos live at birdsandblooms.com.
After Halloween, don't toss your carved pumpkin in the trash. Instead, recycle it to provide a nutritious treat for birds and wildlife. Simply cut the pumpkin into chunks and place them in your yard or garden. The seeds are especially loved by birds, while the flesh attracts squirrels, deer, and other animals. It's an eco-friendly way to reduce waste and support local wildlife.
About this
After Halloween, don't toss your carved pumpkin in the trash. Instead, recycle it to provide a nutritious treat for birds and wildlife. Simply cut the pumpkin into chunks and place them in your yard or garden. The seeds are especially loved by birds, while the flesh attracts squirrels, deer, and other animals. It's an eco-friendly way to reduce waste and support local wildlife.
Tips
- Share pumpkin seeds with birds. Roast them without salt or seasoning and offer on a tray feeder or sprinkle on the ground.
- Turn your pumpkin into a bird feeder. Cut off the top half, fill the bottom with birdseed, let halves dry, and poke drainage holes.
- Feed the squirrels. Cut pumpkins open so squirrels can eat the seeds.
- Share pumpkins with butterflies. In warmer climates, offer pumpkin flesh and pulp in a shallow dish.
- Cut up pumpkins for wildlife. Place cut-up pumpkin in an area where you can view deer and rabbits.
- Feed carved pumpkins to chickens. Do this while pumpkin is fresh and not moldy.
- DIY dog treats. Cut pumpkins into strips and dehydrate them.
- Donate extras to a local charity. Cut pumpkins in half so animals don't get heads stuck, then bring to local Audubon Society.
More photos
Photos hosted by birdsandblooms.com.
