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As the weather gets colder and there is less food available for the wild animals and especially the smaller birds, this simple and very reasonable priced craft is a life saver for our feathered friends. This project is great to do when the snow or ice is on the ground and we have more time on our hands and the birds have an even harder time surviving. It is also something good to get the children involved in. This both keeps them occupied and at the same time teaches them a little about nature.
If we use the strong monofilament fishing line when hanging the feeder and place it at least two feet from the tree limb, it cuts down on the chances of squirrels or other rodents taking the birds feed. There are very few supplies needed for this simple yet helpful project and they are listed below. Keep in mind that the feed itself can be varied in several different ways with the mixture of various ingredients.
Pinecones
Lard or shortening and/or peanut butter
Birdseed and/or popcorn
String or monofilament fishing line.
1. Tie the string or monofilament line to the end of the pinecones leaving a tail of about 2.5 feet if enough room is from the ground is allowed. Tying the string on in the beginning cuts down on the mess of handling the mixture.
2. Roll the pinecones in shortening or a 50/50 mixture of peanut butter and shortening (peanut butter alone can be strangling for the birds). Cornmeal or oatmeal can also be with the peanut butter. If your prefer, use a plastic knife, spatula, or depressor to spread the mixture on the cones.
3. Roll the cone in the birdseed or mixture of birdseed and popcorn.
4. Hang from a tree limb that is accessible and can be seen easily from your window. Watch the variety of birds come to feed.
You can make some extra and place in the freezer in ziploc bags.
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