The Nest Nature School at The Cibolo Center for Conservation is all about nurturing strong bodies, inquisitive minds, and wild hearts. We believe that hands-on experiences in nature and research-based teaching methods support an education where every student can thrive.
In every craft or activity we do, we prioritize sustainability and the environment when we plan lessons, and this holiday-themed craft is no exception. You and your kids can join one of our classes as we make natural birdseed ornaments to decorate our outdoor spaces.
Ingredients
1 cup nut butter (we used sunflower butter instead to accommodate any nut allergies)
1 ½ cups wild birdseed
½ cup sunflower seeds
Parchment paper
Holiday-themed cookie cutters or molds (or any shapes you and your child like)
Straw or popsicle stick
String, twine, or ribbon, cut into 6-inch pieces
cibolo.org/programs/nest-nature-school | 830-357-7711
1. Mix Up the Merriment
Add birdseed and sunflower seeds to a large mixing bowl. Add in the nut butter and mix well until everything is incorporated.
2. Everything Takes Shape
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and place molds or cookie cutters on it. Then, you or your child can scoop the birdseed mixture into all the molds and pack it down. Use a straw or popsicle stick to make a hole in each.
3. Let Winter Set In
Add a piece of the string, twine, or ribbon to the hole, and tie it into a loop. Place cookie sheet in the freezer for about three hours or until completely frozen.
4. Gifts For the Birds
Remove the ornaments from the freezer and hang them outside for birds to enjoy all through the winter. Note that on warm days, the butter that forms the ornaments may soften. Have extras ready to go so that the birds can keep coming back for your tasty treats!