How to Make Pinecone Bird Feeder Recipe #1: Classic Peanut Butter Delight

This recipe is easy and inexpensive, and it uses ingredients that are commonly found in most households. It is also a good option for attracting a variety of birds, including chickadees, nuthatches, and finches.

Materials Needed:

1. Large pinecones (collected or store-bought)
2. Peanut butter (natural added with no added sugar) 
3. Birdseed mix (suitable for local bird species)
4. Twine or string for hanging 
5. Butter knife or spoon
6. Plate or shallow dish
7. Scissors

How to Make Pinecone Bird Feeders: Step-By-Step

Step 1: Gather Materials

Collect all the necessary materials, including pinecones, peanut butter, birdseed, twine, and utensils.

Step 2: Prepare the Pinecone

Tie a piece of twine around the top of the pinecone, creating a loop for hanging. This will serve as the hanger for your feeder.

Step 3: Spread Peanut Butter

Take a butter knife or spoon and carefully spread peanut butter all over the pinecone. Make sure to get peanut butter between the scales of the cone as well.

Step 4: Roll in Birdseed

Pour birdseed onto a plate or shallow dish. Roll the peanut butter-coated pinecone in the birdseed, pressing gently to ensure the seeds adhere well.

Step 5: Let it Set

Allow the feeder to set for a while, giving the peanut butter a chance to firm up.

Step 6: Hang it up

Find a suitable spot in your yard, garden, or balcony to hang your pinecone feeder. Make sure it’s easily visible from your favorite bird-watching spot.

Step 7: Enjoy the Show

Birds will soon discover the tasty treat you’ve prepared for them. Keep an eye out for various bird species that will visit your feeder.

How to Make Pinecone Bird Feeder Recipe #2: Wholesome Veggie Delight

This recipe is a good option for people who are allergic to peanut butter or honey, or who want to make a bird feeder that does not attract bees. It is also a good option for attracting birds that prefer a more natural diet, such as woodpeckers and bluebirds.

And hey, if you’re all about the plant-based vibes, this recipe is totally vegan and vegetarian-approved, however, you can also substitute other types of vegetable shortening, such as lard (lard is not vegan or vegetarian) or palm oil. 

Materials Needed:

• Large pinecones (collected or store-bought)
• Vegetable shortening (like Crisco but without flavors or dies) OR real suet ( which can be purchased from a butcher)
• Birdseed mix (suitable for local bird species)
• Twine or string for hanging 
• Butter knife or spoon
• Plate or shallow dish
• Scissors

How to Make It: Step-By-Step with Photos

Step 1: Gather your Materials

Collect all the necessary materials, including pinecones, vegetable shortening, birdseed, twine, and utensils.

Step 2: Melt the Vegetable Shortening

Melt the vegetable shortening in a small saucepan over low heat.

Step 3: Dip the Pinecone

Dip the pinecone in the melted shortening, coating it all over. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Step 4: Sprinkle Birdseed

Sprinkle the birdseed over the pinecone, covering it as much as possible. You can use your fingers to press the birdseed into the shortening.

Step 5: Attach Hanger

Tie a piece of string or yarn around the top of the pinecone to make a hanger. You can also use a twine to make a loop for hanging the feeder.

Tips for the Pinecone Birdfeeders

• Use a pine cone that is open and has large scales, but one that has not been chemically treated or had fragrances added. 
• Use a variety of birdseeds to attract a wider variety of birds and see which birdseed is the favorite in your yard.
• Find a sunny spot to hang your creation. Birds are like us – they love a warm and inviting spot to enjoy their meal.
• Remember to replace the birdseed and peanut butter or shortening every week or two. A refreshed feeder is like a welcome mat for our avian pals.
• You can also add other materials to your pine cone bird feeder, such as berries or nuts.

Disclaimer about melting crisco or suet: Melting crisco or suet can be dangerous, as they are flammable. Be sure to melt them in a safe container over low heat, and avoid letting them come into contact with an open flame

FAQs

Can you use honey to make a pinecone bird feeder (is honey safe)?

While honey might seem like a natural alternative, it’s best to avoid using honey as a sticking agent for homemade bird feeders. Honey can be sticky and potentially harmful to birds’ feathers. It’s better to stick with safe options like peanut butter or suet.

You should also avoid using honey if there are bees in your area, as they may be attracted to the sweet smell.

Is Crisco safe for birds? 

Yes, Crisco or other similar solid fats can be used in bird feeders. They might not be the healthiest option for our feathered friends, but if peanut butter is not an option, solid fats without flavors or colors added will work for pinecone birdfeeders.  

Are pine cone bird feeders good for birds? 

Absolutely! Pinecone bird feeders provide a convenient feeding station for birds and offer them a source of energy, especially during colder months when food is scarce. Pine cones are also a natural and biodegradable material, so they are safe for birds to eat from.

Here are some of the benefits of using pine cone bird feeders:

• They are a natural and biodegradable material.
• They are easy to make and can be customized to attract different types of birds.
• They are a low-cost way to attract birds to your backyard.
• They can help to attract birds during the winter months when food is scarce.

If you are looking for a way to attract birds to your backyard and provide them with a source of food, a pine cone bird feeder is a great option.

Next Steps

Pinecone bird feeders are a fun and easy way to attract birds to your backyard. They are also a great way to teach kids about nature and birdwatching. With these two recipes, you can make your own pinecone bird feeders and enjoy watching the birds enjoy their new treat. 

So go on, create your own slice of birdie paradise, and watch as your feathered friends dance, play, and indulge in the wholesome delight you’ve crafted with your own two hands. With a little care, your pinecone bird feeder will provide hours of enjoyment for you and the birds.