Bird Feeder - Parent Hack style

An inventive and inexpensive way to attract birds to your lawn and feed them in the process is to make a birdseed pine cone. This little activity is quick, easy, and loads of fun for kids.
Note: those with peanut allegeries will want to find a sticky alternative or avoid this one all together!

Here is what you need:

1. A couple big pine cones from your yard or local park (simply run to the first pine tree you see and look down - you are bound to find some nice plump ones)
2. Peanut Butter (buy some of the generic inexpensive kind if you do not usually stock PB in the cupboard)
3. A small bag of basic bird seed (can be purchased from Target or a local pet store)
4. A couple spoons.
5. A flat tray/container.
   
6. String/Yarn.
7. A tree/pole.

And here is what to do:

1. Scout your location - find a nice tree branch, hammock pole, or lamppost to hang your creation. Make sure to place it in a visible spot so your kids can enjoy their handy-work.
2. Tie the string/yarn to the pine cone. Make sure you have enough slack left to tie it to the tree brach/post.
3. Lather up the pine cones with peanut butter. Use your spoons or hands. Don't be shy or skimpy!
4. Pour the birdseed into a flat tray or container.
5. Roll the peanut butter covered cones around in the seed.
6. Hang up your new bird feeder!
7. Sit back and watch who comes for a snack!

Earlier this Summer, OWTK purchased a formal Feed Birder. You can read about it here and here. Before that purchase we made several birdseed pine cones and they were always a big hit with the local birds - and our daughter. As we will see, making them is often more fun then watching the birds dine.

Have Fun!

Jeff

Out With The Kids

http://www.outwiththekids.com