Pine Cone Bird Feeders

I can't believe how quickly today has gone!  We had a visit from Naomi and Alex this morning who came to play for a few hours.  The weather has continued to be wet and windy with very strong winds and it is also very cold, so we haven't managed to go out today.  I planned some more activities to follow on  from our topic on National Bird Day; this one being some pine cone bird feeders.

To make the bird feeders you will need:

• Some pine cones
• Gardeners twine
• Vegetable suet
• 5-10 tablespoons warm water
• Peanut butter (optional)
• Bird seed
• A mixing bowl
• A tablespoon
• A small tray or dish
• You will also need a little helper!

First take the gardeners twine and tie a loop around the wider stem-end of the pine cones.

 Mix the packet of vegetable suet with the water, add a tablespoon at a time until it turns thick and sticky.  You can also add 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter here.

Using the tablespoon, pack the suet mixture into the pine cone applying pressure so that it sticks.

Then roll it around in the dish full of bird seed until it is all covered.  You can firm it around with your hands to ensure it i all covered and won't fall off.  Little people might not like this part as your hands tend to get greasy.

When they are all firmed, leave on a plate to set.

And there you go!  Tasty birdie treats! Tweet tweet!