While we are all social distancing and getting back to nature, we have noticed an increase of winged friends in the backyard. The bluebirds are beginning to build their nest – they come back to the same spot every spring. The mallards and Canadian Geese are congregating by the pond. And even a few butterflies have landed on the flowers.
It is amazing to see things spring to life as warmer, longer days return.
So, why does this happen?
Not all animals are built for colder climates. And unlike people, who can put our favorite foods on trucks to our local grocery stores, animals must rely on nature to grow their favorite foods. When the weather turns cold, they must go to where the food is still thriving, and now that the sun has returned, they go back to their favorite summer feeding ground.
Even scientists are amazed by the instincts and ability to travel great distances. A butterfly and a whale both cover thousands of miles to get to their favorite feeding grounds.
If you are also noticing an abundance of songbirds in your backyard, here is an easy craft to give the weary travelers a bit of food.
Cookie Cutter Birdfeeder
You will need:
Supplies: Mixing bowl, cookie cutters, baking sheet, nonstick cooking spray, straw, and twine
1 ½ cups birdseed
½ cup flour
¼ cup water
2 Tbsp Corn syrup
We put wax paper down just to control the mess. Then, mix birdseed, flour, water, and corn syrup until everything is incorporated.
Spray the cookie sheet and the inside of the cookie cutters with the nonstick cooking spray. Spoon in the mixture pressing it into the shape of the cookie cutter. Then take your straw and poke a hole in the center for the twine to be tied to later
Gently lift the cookie cutter from the tray and start again with another shape!
Bake for 1 ½ hours at your oven’s lowest setting (170°).
Once cooled, tie the twine and place on the tree for birds to enjoy.
If you want to learn more about migration or how animals adapt to seasons, read:
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