I have always loved bird watching, and believe that I acquired this from my father. He loved his birds and would buy bird books to research what different species that were visiting. If he didn’t know what kind it was, he would find it and read all about it, many times out loud. Then, he would build homemade bird feeders to accommodate their return.
I chose to show you a male cardinal first, because I get frequent visits from this guy on my back lanai. It is believed that cardinals are spiritual messengers. So, every time I see one trying to get my attention with their beautifully loud singing, I ask myself, who was I thinking or talking about at the time I spotted him? Did I ask for guidance to a particular matter? The cardinal sighting should bring peace and hope knowing that my message had been heard. And, to always remember that the spirits are protecting me. So, we are then supposed to thank this beautiful creation for appearing.
I like to think that every time this fella visits me on the lanai, it’s my Dad visiting, making sure I’m okay, and to let me know he is always with me. This is why the cardinal is top of the totem.
Bird Feeders
How to Create a Bird Seed Wreath
Ingredients to make this Bird Seed Wreath:
Bundt pan
Spray cooking oil
1 package unflavored geletin
1 Cup water
6 Tablespoons Karo Syrup
1 1/2 Cups Flour
8 Cups Bird Seed
Combine all ingredients & fill the bundt pan with the seed mixture. Press firmly and let dry for 24 hours. Tie a ribbon or jute around it and hang on your favorite viewing tree.
Re-purposed Wine Bottle Bird Feeder
This one may take a little more skill to make the wooden part of this bird feeder, or you could find a friend or carpenter who can make it for you. Anyway, this is a great idea for your left over wine bottles! Plus, the birds will have self fed seed for about a month or so. You won’t need to re-fill with bird seed as often.
Fresh Apple Birdseed Feeder
Apple Birdseed Feeders are fun to make with your kids. Also, the birds can enjoy almost everything it takes to make one. Here are the ingredients and directions:
Bring 2/3 cup of water to a boil and add (2) packets of unflavored gelatin, stirring until completely dissolved. Then, mix (2) cups of birdseed into the gelatin mixture. Cut (4) medium apples in half lengthwise and hollow the middle out with a spoon or knife. Place the apple halves on a sheet pan and fill with the birdseed mixture and put in the refrigerator for about 2 hours, or until set and firm.
Insert a screw in the top of each apple and tie twine in a loop, then hang each apple feeder on branches and wait for the birds to arrive.
Teacup Bird Feeder
Teacups Bird Feeder
Wine Bottle Bird Feeder
