Christmas Tree for the Birds 2019 ♥

Every year I decorate this tree full of edible bird ornaments. Click on this link for all the DIY ornaments: A Christmas Tree for the Birds. 

I'm not sure who enjoys the tree the most - me or my backyard birds!

I added a new ornament to the tree this year! - It's a suet snowflake!

I purchased Silicone Snowflake Molds from Amazon - $9.99 for 2. Then I made a suet mix from:

2 cups lard
4 cups white cornmeal
1/2 cup flour

Melt it all together and spoon the mixture into the molds. Refrigerate until solid. I couldn't make a hole in the snowflake without it falling apart, but it fits perfectly in a canning jar lid.

 I invite you to follow my Facebook page to see the products available in our shop, my DIY projects and more photos of my backyard birds. 

 ~ Rebecca's Bird Gardens (Facebook)

DIY Mason - or Jelly Jar - Suet Feeder

Very simple and inexpensive suet feeder.
Start with a small threaded jar - I used 4oz jelly jars - but any repuposed small jar would work.
You could make your own DIY hanger for the jar, but I found these (Ball Jar Wire Handle 3 pack) at Joann Craft Store.  A package of 3 hangers is about $5 - but use a 50% off coupon and then they are only $2.50. - That adds up to less than a dollar per feeder! Fill them with purchased suet or make your own. Here's the recipe:

Basic Suet Recipe 

1 cup lard

1 cup chunky peanut butter

Melt the lard and peanut butter together, then add:

3 cups cornmeal

1/2 cup flour

4 cups birdseed

 Tufted Titmouse

Northern Male Cardinal

One of my favorite backyard birds - The Caroline Wren ♥

Little bit more of a challenge for a Blue Jay to eat suet out of a jelly jar,

 but he manages to get the job done. ♥