More Decorations for the Birds!

Feeding the birds in the winter is a wonderful activity. Your feathered friends will appreciate your efforts as food is scarce especially at this time of the year.

You don't have to have fancy bird feeders, or buy expensive feed to do this.

Simple, but effective feeders:
- a shallow tin can, washed out, can be set on the ground for those birds that enjoy ground feeding (make sure there are no sharp edges on the tin)
- a log can be used…simply drill holes in the log to put bird seed in
- recycle pie tins, they make great bird feeders
- plastic 2 litre pop bottles or milk cartons work well. Cut off the tops, punch holes in the side and use wire to hang them from a tree
- cut an orange or grapefruit in half, you eat the fruit, and then use the hollowed out shell

So what can I feed the birds:
- bird seed can be bought in bulk
- old bread, that you may have previously thrown out, can be broken up and used
- stale nuts can also be used
- when making pancakes, make a couple extra and put in nuts or raisins. Once cooled, tear into small pieces, and you have a good morning breakfast for your outdoor friends!
- make your own suet using bacon drippings. Add a bit of peanut butter, some cornmeal, throw in some nuts and raisins to your bacon drippings. Stir until thick and stiff. Put the mixture into the bags that onions come in, and hang off a tree branch
- birds love dried fruit…so you can dry out your fruit, or buy it in bulk for a special treat
- birds also need fresh water over the winter months. So fill a clean plastic container first thing in the morning. Change the container often to provide the fresh water they need.

Hearing and watching the birds over the winter is a wonderful, simple activity!