Spread Love to Migratory Birds: DIY Heart-Shaped Suet and Seed Feeder

Spring is on the horizon, and as migratory birds begin their incredible journeys northward, February is the perfect time to show them some love. Many species, like robins and warblers, rely on safe, resourceful stopovers to refuel along the way. By preparing your backyard with nourishing treats and bird-friendly solutions, you can help make their travels safer and more rewarding.

One simple way to help? Create a heart-shaped sunflower seed and suet feeding block! This fun DIY project is not only a heartfelt gift for our feathered friends but also a great activity to do with your family.

Why Feed Birds During Migration? Migrating birds burn an incredible amount of energy during their journeys. High-energy foods like suet, sunflower seeds, and dried fruit provide the fuel they need to continue their flight. Placing feeders in your yard ensures these travelers have a reliable stopover to rest and recharge.

Here’s how you can craft your own festive feeding block to nourish and delight migratory birds.

DIY Heart-Shaped Suet and Seed Feeder

Ingredients & Materials: 

  • 1 cup of suet or lard
  • 2 cups of black-oil sunflower seeds
  • ½ cup of dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
  • ½ cup of unsalted nuts, chopped
  • Heart-shaped molds or cookie cutters
  • Ribbon or string for hanging
  • A small saucepan
  • Wax paper
 

Instructions:

  1. Melt the suet or lard in a small saucepan over low heat until fully liquefied.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sunflower seeds, dried fruit, and chopped nuts.
  3. Pour the melted suet over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
  4. Place heart-shaped molds or cookie cutters on a sheet of wax paper. Spoon the mixture into each mold, pressing firmly to ensure the mixture holds together.
  5. Make a small hole near the top of each heart (a straw works well) for threading ribbon or string.
  6. Let the mixture cool and harden completely, either in the fridge or at room temperature.
  7. Once solid, remove the hearts from the molds, thread with ribbon or string, and hang them outside in a tree or near your bird feeder.

Additional Tips:

  • Place your feeder in a shaded area to prevent the suet from melting too quickly on warmer days.
  • Hang the hearts close to bushes or trees where birds can perch safely while feeding.
  • Check regularly and replenish your feeders as needed during migration season.

While feeding birds is a wonderful way to support them, combining efforts with other bird-safe practices creates an even greater impact.

Consider:

  • Applying WindowAlert decals to prevent bird-window collisions.
  • Keeping birdbaths clean and unfrozen using a birdbath heater.
  • Planting native vegetation to provide natural shelter and food sources.
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