Bird Seed
If you’re a nature lover who enjoys attracting feathered friends to your garden, making your own bird seed mix is a fun and rewarding way to do so. Not only is it more cost-effective than store-bought options, but you can also customize the blend to cater to the specific bird species in your area. This simple recipe will have your backyard filled with chirping visitors in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups black oil sunflower seeds
– 1 cup white millet
– 1 cup cracked corn
– 1/2 cup peanuts (unsalted)
– 1/2 cup chopped dried fruit (such as raisins or cranberries)
– 1/4 cup nyjer seeds
– 1/4 cup suet or vegetable shortening
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the black oil sunflower seeds, white millet, cracked corn, peanuts, chopped dried fruit, and nyjer seeds. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
2. Melt the suet or vegetable shortening in a saucepan over low heat until it becomes a liquid. Be careful not to let it boil.
3. Pour the melted suet or vegetable shortening over the seed mixture in the bowl. Stir everything together until the seeds are evenly coated with the fat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the bird seed mixture in an even layer on the baking sheet and let it cool and harden for at least 1-2 hours.
5. Once the bird seed mix has hardened, break it apart into small chunks or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
6. Fill your bird feeders with the homemade bird seed mix and place them in your garden or backyard. Make sure to clean and refill the feeders regularly to keep your avian visitors coming back for more.
7. Sit back, relax, and enjoy watching the colorful array of birds that will soon be flocking to your feeder to enjoy the delicious homemade treat you’ve prepared for them.
By making your own bird seed mix, you not only provide a nutritious and tasty snack for your feathered friends but also create a welcoming environment for them to thrive in. Experiment with different ingredients and ratios to see which blends attract the most diverse range of birds to your garden. Remember to keep your feeders clean and well-stocked to ensure a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. Happy birdwatching!
