To prepare pine cones for birds, you essentially create a tasty and nutritious bird feeder by coating them with a mixture of birdseed and a binding agent, typically lard or suet.
Steps to Prepare Pine Cone Bird Feeders:
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Gather Your Supplies: You will need:
- Pine cones (ensure they are open and dry)
- Birdseed (a mix of different seeds is ideal)
- Lard, suet, or peanut butter (the binding agent; lard and suet are preferred in colder weather as peanut butter can become very hard)
- Twine or string (for hanging)
- A butter knife or spatula
- A shallow dish or plate
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Prepare the Pine Cones:
- If the pine cones are closed, you can bake them in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) for about 30 minutes to help them open. Be careful not to burn them!
- Ensure the pine cones are clean and free of insects.
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Prepare the Binding Agent:
- If using lard or suet, soften it at room temperature. You can also melt it slightly in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it. Peanut butter can also be slightly warmed to soften it.
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Coat the Pine Cone:
- Use a butter knife or spatula to spread the softened lard, suet, or peanut butter all over the pine cone, making sure to get it into all the crevices. The more thorough you are, the more birdseed will stick.
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Add the Birdseed:
- Pour birdseed onto a shallow dish or plate.
- Roll the lard-covered pine cone in the birdseed, pressing gently to ensure the seeds adhere.
- Sprinkle additional birdseed over any remaining exposed lard/suet/peanut butter to cover it completely.
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Attach the Hanger:
- Cut a length of twine or string.
- Tie the twine securely to the top of the pine cone, allowing enough length for hanging it from a tree branch.
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Hang and Enjoy:
- Hang your prepared pine cone bird feeder from a tree branch or other suitable location in your yard.
- Observe and enjoy watching the birds come to feast!
Important Considerations:
- Temperature: In warmer weather, lard may melt. Consider using suet, which has a higher melting point, or peanut butter.
- Allergies: Be mindful of potential peanut allergies in your area if using peanut butter.
- Hygiene: Regularly clean the area around the bird feeder to prevent the spread of disease. Replace the pine cone feeder when it becomes depleted or soiled.
By following these steps, you can easily create attractive and beneficial bird feeders using pine cones. These feeders provide a valuable food source for birds, especially during the winter months when natural food is scarce.
