Those who built a DIY bird feeder probably considered a bird seed craft that will save them money and provide the best food source for their feathered neighbors. Learning how to make bird seed blocks comes with tons of advantages.
Besides, a bird seed block is less messy and ensures no bird food is wasted. If you are convinced of the benefits of this homemade bird treat, let’s get started!
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Ways to Make Bird Seed Blocks
Suppose you have many tree-climbing bird visitors in your feeder, such as woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, and bluejays. In that case, suet feeders are a popular choice for many.
However, it can be hard in the pockets in the long run. That is why many homeowners and bird lovers with feeders opt to make bird seed cakes on their own.
One of the most important things you should know and pay attention to when making bird seed blocks is to make bird seed stick together. There are several ingredients you can use to achieve this.
Suet Bird Feeder with Gelatin Recipe
Gelatin is one of the most commonly used bird seed blocks glue. You can purchase it almost anywhere and at a cheap price. Here are other things you need and the steps to follow.
Step 1: Prepare
- 6 cups bird seed mix
- 1 pack of unflavored gelatin
- 1 cup cold water
- Gloves
- Mixing bowls
- Small box lined with parchment paper
- Non-stick tray
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
Mix 1 cup of cold water with one pack of gelatin. Then, stir the mixture in the cup.
Step 3: Melt the Gelatin and Let It Cool
Put the gelatin and water in a pan. You should melt the gelatin until you get a clear mixture. Then, turn off the heat and cool for 5 minutes and pour them into a bowl.
Prepare and mix the ingredients
Now, you should pour your birdseed mixture into the bowl, you can also add dried fruits or orange peels. Thoroughly combine until everything is coated well.
Pour the gelatin and coat everything
Bring out your non-stick tray, then pour the dry ingredients into it. Make sure you wear the gloves. flatter it as much as you can. Wait for 3 hours to let everything set nicely.
Alternative Suet Blocks for Birds without Gelatin
We have these two recommendations for those who do not want to use gelatin and are looking for a substitute.
1. With Lard
A bird seed block made of lard is perfect for summer. People living in areas experiencing very hot summers use this recipe for a no-melt suet. Refer to this ingredient list:
What to prepare:
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 2 cups oatmeal
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup lard
- A handful of bird seeds (no shells)
The directions are similar to the first recipe we shared. You can simply you these ingredients instead!
2. With Honey
If you want to make bird suet not only to feed the birds but to decorate your garden, this one is for you. The star of this recipe is the honey!
What to prepare:
- 2 cups flour (whole wheat)
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup lard
- 1 cup honey
- 2 eggs
Combine everything. In a 350-degree oven, bake for 30 to 40 minutes. And your bird seed blocks are ready!
Tip: If you don’t have a cage to put your bird seed cakes in, you can make bird seed cylinders with hole. That way, you can put a string through it and hang the treat on tree branches.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve read our how to make bird seed blocks article, we hope you can successfully make your own wild bird block! Your regular bird visitors will surely have a delightful meal time when these blocks of treat are ready.
There are several bird seed block recipe variations and you can also add your own ingredients and experiment. Do you have some great alternative options you want other birders to try? Our comment section is open to you!
George and I became friends after a birdwatching trip with our new group. And we have been enjoying every adventure together. When he told me the idea of establishing a site that shares our experiences and fun, I immediately agreed. After trials and errors, here we have Thayerbirding.
