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! A wonderful hobby, truly enjoying the simple
things in life!
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