Peanut Butter Pine Cone Bird Feeders: DIY Nature’s Delight

Bird Feeder Cones 🐦🌿

Overview:

Bird Feeder Cones are a delightful project, especially for children, as they get to participate in the entire process from start to finish and experience the joy of seeing birds flock to enjoy their creations. These homemade bird feeders not only provide nourishment to our feathered friends but also serve as a wonderful way to connect with nature right in your own backyard.

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 cones
• Calories: 441.1 per serving
• Nutritional Information (per serving):
  • Fat: 38.9g
  • Saturated Fat: 8.4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 212.5mg
  • Carbohydrates: 17.1g
  • Fiber: 4.2g
  • Sugar: 3.7g
  • Protein: 11.2g

Ingredients:

• Chunky Peanut Butter: 5-6 tablespoons
• Vegetable Shortening: 1 tablespoon
• Yellow Cornmeal: 1/2 cup
• Birdseed: 1/2 cup
• Pine Cones: 6, clean and dry

Instructions:

1. Prepare Pine Cones: Begin by tying string to the narrow pointed end of each pine cone, cutting the string to your desired length. This will serve as the hanger for your bird feeder cones.

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2. Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan, melt the peanut butter and vegetable shortening over low heat until smooth and well combined.

3. Add Cornmeal: Once the peanut butter and shortening are melted, add in the yellow cornmeal, stirring continuously to incorporate it into the mixture.

4. Heat and Stir: Allow the mixture to heat through, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes, ensuring that the cornmeal is fully integrated into the peanut butter mixture.

5. Incorporate Birdseed: Once the mixture is well combined and heated, gradually add the birdseed, stirring until it is evenly distributed and coated with the peanut butter mixture. This will create a sticky, bird-friendly concoction.

6. Fill Pine Cones: Using your fingers or a spoon, carefully fill each pine cone’s petals with the birdseed and peanut butter mixture, packing it tightly to ensure it stays in place.

7. Chill: Place the filled pine cones in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the mixture to set and firm up. This step is crucial for ensuring that your bird feeder cones hold their shape when hung outdoors.

8. Hang on a Branch: Once chilled and firm, take your bird feeder cones out of the refrigerator and hang them on sturdy branches or hooks in your yard or garden. Choose locations where birds frequent for the best chance of attracting them to your feeders.

9. Optional: If you want to make a larger batch or save some for later, these bird feeder cones can be frozen in an airtight container, allowing you to have them on hand whenever you need to replenish your bird feeding stations.

Serving Suggestions:

• Place your Bird Feeder Cones in various locations around your yard or garden, ensuring they are easily accessible to birds while still being protected from predators.
• Monitor your feeders regularly, refilling them as needed to keep your feathered visitors happy and well-fed.

Conclusion:

Making Bird Feeder Cones is not only a fun and educational activity but also a meaningful way to support local bird populations and foster a deeper connection with nature. Gather your family or friends, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this rewarding journey of creating homemade bird feeders that will bring joy and wonder to your outdoor space.