Valentine’s Day Heart Shaped Bird Feeders

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These homemade bird feeders have been on my “To Do” list for a couple of years now! I just love how beautiful they are, and they are a perfect Valentine’s Day craft to do with the kids! We had so much fun making these and putting them out for our neighbourhood birds to enjoy. Here is how you can make your own:

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/2 cups of mixed bird seed
• 2 packs of gelatin
• 1/2 cup water
• Heart shaped molds (or you can also use cookie cutters)
• Baking sheet
• Reusable straw or wooden spoon (to poke hole for hanging)
• String, yarn or twine, cut to length for hanging

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Add gelatin to water and stir. To dissolve gelatin thoroughly, bring mixture to a boil in a sauce pan over medium heat on stove top, stirring constantly. Let cool.
2. Mix together bird seed and water/gelatin mixture.
3. Place molds/cookie cutters on a baking sheet. Scoop mixture in, filling completely. Pack down birdseed. Poke a hole in centre of the heart near the top with a reusable straw or spoon handle; this will be used for string/yarn/twine once feeders have set so don’t create the hole too close to the edge.
4. Set feeders aside to harden. I left mine overnight, but you could expedite this process by placing the baking sheet with the molds/cutters on it in the freezer.
5.  Once set, remove feeders gently from the molds/cutters and thread with string/yarn/twine for hanging.* I used a large craft needle to make this part easier.
6. Head outside and find a spot to hang your feeders!*

*A FEW IMPORTANT NOTES:

1.  Please select hanging locations that you can return to in order to remove string/yarn/twine once the birds have finished with the feeders. These materials are not ideal for nesting birds and/or could become entangled around a bird or other animal once the feeders are finished, so it is best to collect and dispose of them properly.
2.  Be aware that hanging bird feeders could attract other wildlife to your area. Research your area beforehand and use your best judgment.
3. Do not hand feeders too close to windows. It is fun to watch the birds eat but ensure feeders are hung a safe distance away to avoid any accidents. 
4. Bird feeders could increase the risk of the spread of diseases among birds, such as avian flu. Be sure to research your area beforehand.
5. It is best to hang bird feeders on cold winter days when food is scarce. Avoid hanging feeders in spring, summer and fall. 

I would love to hear from you if you make some of these beautiful bird feeders! Be sure to drop a comment below!