Spring is an exciting time of year. It is a time when all things come alive. The much-anticipated warmer weather brings more than just new leaves on trees and the blossoms of new flowers – it brings a time of growth and new beginnings. Ruth Stout, an American author best known for her Gardening books, once wrote: “I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose, I would always greet it in a garden”. 

As most of us venture out into our gardens in spring, why not entice some seed-eating birds to join you? Birds such as Sparrows and Finches generally feed their young in the spring months. Having birds in your garden is beneficial for both you and these chirpy little creatures. You will contribute to helping them feed their young, and they will contribute to making your garden healthier as they consume large quantities of weed seeds and insects. 

Bird feeders are a great way to entice these birds to visit your garden, so why not make it a fun activity to share with the whole family? 

What you will need: 

1. ¾ Cup of Birdseed 
2. ¼ Cup of water
3. 1 Sachet gelatine 
4. String or twine 
5. Cookie cutters 
6. Wax paper 

Mix the sachet of gelatine with ¼ cup of water and place it on the stove.  Bring to a simmer, constantly stirring until all the gelatine is dissolved. 

Once dissolved remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for 1 minute. 

Add the birdseed to the mixture – you may need to add a little more than ¾ cup if there is still liquid in the pot. 

Place your cookie cutters out on the wax paper 

Fill the cookie cutters halfway with the birdseed mixture.

Cut a piece of string or twine (roughly 15 – 20cm) and knot the two ends together and place it on top of the birdseed – ensuring a loop of the string is on the outside of the cookie-cutter and the knot is in the cookie cutter. 

Add more birdseed mixture on top of the string or twine. Make sure the cookie cutter is filled to the top and push the birdseed down to even it out and to make it compact. 

Allow them to dry overnight – turning them over every now and then. 

Remove the bird feeders from the cookie cutters and hang them in your garden from various trees. 

Watch and wait for your new winged friends to come and visit.