How to Make Pinecone Bird Feeders and Nature Bottles

There are many ways to have fun in nature. Some of my favorite childhood memories involve creating projects from objects found in nature. Making something new out of natural materials can be a great way to learn more about the nature that surrounds you, while at the same time allowing you and your family to get outside and have fun together. Below are instructions on how to create two nature-inspired crafts: a pinecone bird feeder and a nature bottle.

Pinecone Bird Feeders 

Pinecone bird feeders are simple to make and a great way to get outside in nature. First, you need some peanut butter and some bird seeds. Then, the fun part begins — looking for a good pinecone. You want one that is dense and that doesn’t have big gaps between the scales. I used to hunt all over my backyard to find the perfect pinecone for the bird feeder. All of that walking definitely got me outside and exploring. Once you find the perfect pinecone, spread the peanut butter all over the pinecone. This can get very messy but can be fun. Then, you roll the peanut butter-covered pinecone in the bird seeds. Make sure to completely cover the whole pinecone so that no peanut butter is visible. Then take some string and tie your bird feeder to the perfect tree branch.

Nature Bottles 

I also enjoy studying the nature around me. As a child, I loved looking at all the different leaves, types of dirt, and tree bark found in my environment. Collecting samples from nature and creating nature bottles or jars are an excellent way to get an up-close view of natural elements. The only things you need to bring with you are some clear empty glass bottles or jars. If you don’t have a yard or if you just want to see other areas of nature, you can go on a hike or to the local park. There, as long as it is permitted by the landowner or park, you can collect a variety of items from nature such as leaves, different types of dirt and soil, small sticks, flowers, etc. Then, put the items that you found in the bottles or jars and take them home. Once you have returned home, study the items you found. If you have a magnifying glass, you can use it to examine the differences between leaves, flowers, or soil types. You can also use a nature reference book or online sources to identify items. Challenge yourself to identify everything you have collected.

I’m wishing you many fun outdoor adventures this summer!