How to Make Birdseed Bells

Birdseed bells come in a wide variety of sizes from miniature bells merely two inches across to bells that are four to six inches in diameter. Designed with specific birds in mind, these may contain any assortment of seeds, nuts, dried fruits and berries. Finding premade bells the right combination of seeds that appeal to the native birds in your area can be difficult and expensive. With a little effort you can make your own birdseed bells at home with any combination of seeds and nuts your birds prefer.

Things You'll Need

• Birdseed Nuts, berries, dried fruit (optional) Two eggs whites Whisk Wooden spoon 4-inch terracotta pot Plastic wrap Wire or old coat hanger

Instructions

1. Choose an assortment of seeds that the birds in your area prefer. Most birds, even finches, will happily eat black oil sunflower seeds. Wild birdseed mixtures are also a good choice. Add assorted nut pieces or bits of dried fruit, if desired.

2. Whip two egg whites for each cup of seeds in a medium bowl. Reserve the yolks for other uses or discard. Fold in the seeds and mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seeds. The mixture will form a thick paste.

3. Line a terracotta pot with plastic wrap. A four-inch pot is the ideal size, but use any size you prefer. Spoon the birdseed and egg mixture into the pot and smooth the top with a wooden spoon.

4. Cut a section of wire, or an old coat hanger, 6 to 8 inches longer than the height of the pot. Make a 2-inch spiral on one end. This will be used to anchor the wire in the bell. Insert the straight end of the wire through the seed mixture and out the hole on the bottom of the pot. The spiral should rest inside the mixture.

5. Place the pots on the oven rack so the end of the wire extends through the rack towards the bottom of the oven. Bake on low (100 to 150 degrees) for approximately 2 hours. Time varies according to the size of the pot and the oven. When the bell is firm to the touch, it is done.

6. Allow to cool. Turn the pot over to release the bell. Remove the plastic wrap and hang from a tree branch or garden hook for visiting birds.