Bird feeder

I found this blog post on the Planet Green Website and just couldn't resist sharing it with you. One of my favorite things to do is feed the birds in the winter, so here's an eco friendly way to feed them, while getting your kids involved!

Birdseed Ornaments

These are best for cooler weather because in the heat they just melt into seed filled puddles of fat. They are great cheap, Christmas gifts that kids can make for grandparents and teachers. Use organic ingredients in these. It's healthier for the birds, too.

Materials:

• Organic wild birdseed
• 1 cup organic peanut butter (crunchy works well)
• 1 lb. of vegetable shortening
• ½ cup of oatmeal
• ½ cup of cornmeal
• ½ cup of raisins
• Metal cookie cutters or molds (Tuna cans with both ends removed work fine.)
• Twine

Instructions:

1. Cover a cookie sheet with parchment, waxed paper or a silicon sheet like Sil-pat. Set aside.
2. Melt the vegetable shortening and the peanut butter over low heat, stirring constantly.
3. When the mixture is completely melted and blended add the remaining ingredients and stir to coat.
4. Spoon the warm mixture into the molds.
5. Let cool and then chill in the refrigerator or freezer until firm.
6. Remove the cake from the mold. You may need to warm the outside of the mold a little.
7. Poke a knitting needle through the top to make a hole.
8. Insert twine and knot into a loop.
9. Hang outside for the birds to enjoy.