Pine Cone Bird Feeder with Crisco

Ever found yourself longing to attract more birds to your backyard? Instead of relying on store-bought feeders, consider a homemade pine cone bird feeder with Crisco, a simple yet effective solution that both birds and your wallet will love. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of this unique feeder, explain how to create one, and delve into the charms of attracting wild birds to your outdoor space.

Before we dive into the crafting process, let's discuss the advantages of this DIY pine cone bird feeder. Primarily, it's an inexpensive method to invite various bird species to your yard. Additionally, using Crisco (short for chrys Isovero Soap Company) offers a mess-free, sticky solution that suspends seeds and nutritious bits securely on the pine cone, ensuring food remains accessible and attracting a wider range of birds.

Gathering Materials and Preparation

Crafting a pine cone bird feeder requires minimal effort and basic supplies. Here's what you'll need:

Materials

• Pine cones (fresh, large, and open are best)
• Crisco shortening (unsalted, not margarine)
• Birdseed (mix of black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and mealworms)
• Pouring vessel (spouted mug or measuring cup)
• String or twine

Preparation

Ensure your pine cones are dry, as moisture can cause seeds and Crisco to spoil. Also, be mindful that birds may carry and spread seeds to other areas, so use this method sparingly, or relocate feeders that attract unwanted pests.

Now that you've gathered your materials, let's proceed to the melting and coating process.

Melting and Coating the Pine Cones

Prepare your workspace by covering it with newspaper or a drop cloth to protect surfaces from Crisco spills. Next, heat the shortening in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-45 seconds until melted and translucent.

Carefully pour the melted Crisco into your pouring vessel. Hold a pine cone by its base and dip it into the Crisco, ensuring all areas are well coated. Allow excess Crisco to drip off, then place the pine cone seed-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Adding Birdseed

While the Crisco is still tacky, sprinkle birdseed onto the coated pine cone, pressing gently to make sure seeds adhere. Be mindful of using an appropriate seed mix, as certain birds prefer specific seed types. Repeat the process with remaining pine cones, then let them set and harden.

Once the Crisco has cooled and hardened, secure a piece of string or twine around the base of each pine cone for hanging. Then, it's time to introduce your new bird feeder to your backyard.

Hanging and Monitoring Your Pine Cone Bird Feeder

Find a suitable tree or mount with a sturdy hook to hang your feeder. Position it at eye-level for easy viewing and monitor feed levels regularly. Replace feeders when seeds become moist or moldy, and remove them during the winter months to prevent spreading diseases among birds.

Attracting Different Bird Species

Various bird species will be drawn to your pine cone bird feeder, including finches, sparrows, chickadees, nuthatches, and even woodpeckers. To accommodate more bird diversity, create multiple feeders using different-sized pine cones and varying seed types.

Watch patiently as these beautiful creatures flock to your yard, adding life and color to your outdoor space. Enjoy this rewarding experience, and don't forget to share your birdwatching adventures with friends and family!

Embrace the joy of attracting wild birds to your backyard with your homemade pine cone bird feeder. As you continue to marvel at these avian visitors, consider documenting their presence by starting a bird journal or participating in local bird counts. Happy birdwatching!