Seed Mix

• Birdseed mixes can easily be created at home by blending different types of seeds, dried fruits, nuts and oats. This will allow you to monitor the bird feeder and determine the favorite foods of your local birds. Any item that is consistently discarded or left behind can be omitted the next time you mix a batch. Avoid using any items that will mold quickly, such as fresh fruit or baked goods, as consuming mold could make the birds ill. Black sunflower seeds are popular among many types of wild birds including sparrows, jays, doves and chickadees. Peanuts are also popular although it is important to only use roasted peanuts. Raw peanuts may contain toxins which can be harmful to birds, according to the Oregon State University Extension Service.
  
  

Suet

• During the winter months, insect-eating birds often have difficulty finding insects which provide them with animal fats they need for energy. Help these birds by providing suet cakes. Suet is animal fat which can be purchased from butcher shops and some grocery stores. Combine approximately 8 oz. of suet with 6 cups of water in a large pot. Heat the mixture until it boils and then remove it from the heat. Stir in 2 cups cornmeal and 1/2 cup flour. At this point, the suet is ready to pour into molds, but you can also add seeds, nuts, dried fruits or oatmeal if you want. When you are happy with the ingredients, pour the mixture into muffin tins and allow to harden. This recipe will make approximately 18 suet cakes, depending on how far you fill the muffin tins. Suet may melt and rot during hot summer months, so save these treats for the winter when birds really need them.