Gifts for Bird Watchers
Birds help reduce the population of unwanted insects so gardeners encourage birds to take up residence. Making wild-bird feeders is an ideal indoor project for your garden and to give as gifts. Hang homemade bird feeders under the eaves or on tree limbs where family members can enjoy observing which birds show up. GOURD OR GRAPEFRUIT BIRD FEEDER Backyard Landscape Garden Shop Cut off the top and hollow out a gourd, or winter squash. Remove enough of the inside to make a bowl. Use a hammer and nail to make holes on each side where you will thread a string for hanging. Stretch the string across the opening, leaving a long piece on both sides to knot into a hanger. Large grapefruit and melon skins can also be used. Make suet to fill the feeder. Melt ½ cup lard or bacon grease and ½ cup crunchy peanut butter in a saucepan. Stir in 1-cup oatmeal, ½ cup flour, ¼ cup sugar, 1-cup cornmeal and ¾ cup birdseed. Pour into the hollow fruit or vegetable and chill in the refrig...