Hobbies And Interests
Winter Bird Seed Art
During colder months, some birds fly south and others do not. Birds in northern, colder areas are especially in need of sustenance, and those in southern areas face greater competition for food sources. This fun projects will help the birds in your backyard during winter months.
When there is at least one inch of snowfall, you can "paint" on your yard using different colors of seed. Using a dowel, "draw" a large picture onto the snow-- such as a large flower, bow or mug of cocoa. Be creative. Place different colored seeds-- brown, black, yellow, red and other colors-- in separate containers. Scoop the seeds with a cup or your hand and gently sprinkle them onto the correct section of the drawing. Continue in this manner until the entire drawing is filled. Enjoy seeing others' reactions to the colorful creation and watching birds eat it up.
Hanging Feeders for All Year
Create an inexpensive and beautiful wreath with bird seed. This is a beautiful project that can be used throughout the year-- add a red bow for a Holiday wreath, used black seed during Halloween or create a flower shaped feeder during spring.
While this is a messy project, children will love the process and the results are well worth it.
Cut a large piece of corrugated cardboard to the size and dimension desired for the wreath (22 inch diameter is a standard dimension for a circular wreath). Or, cut a specific shape, like a tulip or ghost. Combine one package of clear gelatin with boiling water according to the package's directions. Once cooled slightly, add approximately four cups of bird seed. Mix well with hands until combined, wet and sticky. If needed, add more water or seed until the right consistency is achieved.
Once the mixture has cooled completely, mound it onto the cardboard cutout by hand. The seed mixture should stick.
Let dry overnight in a cool area. Attach a wire or ribbon to the back for hanging.
If desired, add additional decoration, such as dried berries, twigs or a ribbon.
Hang the wreath where you can admire the feeding birds.
Autumnal Pumpkin Feeder
Many birds love to eat pumpkin flesh and seeds. Create a beautiful and inexpensive feeder that will also serve as a seasonal decoration.
Purchase a medium or large pumpkin. Carefully remove the top of the pumpkin, scraping out the stringy flesh and seeds, but leaving the hard flesh. This will serve as the container for your feeder. Wash and dry the pumpkin seeds, mix with bird seed, in-shell peanuts, and cracked corn. Fill the pumpkin with the seed and place where you can observe the birds feeding. If desired, add a ribbon to the pumpkin's front with a small thumb tack or place dried corn on the cob on top for greater aesthetic appeal.