Pinecone Birdfeeders

While we were outside this weekend, we noticed that the pinecone birdfeeders we put up in early Decemeber had been completely eatten clean. Since it was above freezing we were able to easily take down the pinecones so we could 'refill' them inside. This is much easier than trying to spread the peanut butter while the cone is suspended from the tree. Not to mention, it's much more comfortable on little fingers to spread peanut butter when they aren't frozen like icicles!

Listed below are the general directions for making the pinecone birdfeeders.

Other tips:

• I have read that adding shortening and cornmeal to the peanut butter make it easier for birds to digest & it prevents the mixture from sticking to the birds beaks.
• Also, if someone has nut allergies you can omit the peanut butter and use just shortening. The results are bit slimey but the birds will not notice!
• If you don’t have pinecones in your yard, you can use halved oranges or bagels.
• Hang the pinecones in trees that you can see from your house. Having a bird guide is a great way to learn more about the birds that winter over in your area!
• If you're making these with a group of children, it's good to send home the instructions. Most children love this simple project and will want to do it again (and again) at home!
Pinecone Birdfeeders  
1.    Collect pinecones
2.   Tie on a string.
3.   Spread mixture of peanut butter.
4.   Roll it in bird seed.
5.   Hang the birdfeeders in a tree.
6.   Enjoy watching birds eat their treat.