We’re trimming many trees at the inn this holiday season and a favorite of mine is the outdoor bird tree. A variety of treats keeps a diversity of birds continually visiting for unending entertainment and enjoyment through the winter season. The placement of the tree allows one to sit in the comfort and warmth of our lobby for viewing. I’ve provided a description of treats we decorate the 15 foot fir with, and I encourage you to create and enjoy them at your own home!
The live fir tree is strung with lights that glisten through the night or during a graceful falling snow. Popcorn, unsalted, shelled peanuts, and cranberries(for color) are strung and wrapped around the branches. Woodpeckers and blue jays work determinedly on the shelled peanuts for the treats inside. Pinecones are smeared with peanut butter and dipped in various types of bird seed. Grapefruits are halved, their contents removed, creating small cups that can be filled with seed. Pieces of colorful yarn are used for hanging them from branches. As the season progresses, its fun to monitor and experiment with various treats, noting what is enjoyed and by what species.
Each season offers its own uniqueness all about our property. In addition to enjoying the walking trails, wildlife viewing, Christmas decorations, and area events, be sure to check out the bird tree! Do you have a bird treat idea or recipe you’d like to share? I’d love to hear it!
Ashley
Funny, I was actually going to call you as we’re planning on such a tree this year! We were worried about squirrels making quick work of everything and also the safety of combining lights with the animals. Any thoughts on these concerns? Also, do you place the tree in a stand with water and does this work out fine when the water in it freezes? Thanks for any hints ~
Enjoy your beautiful tree. It;s our favorite too!! Lisa Bendler
Hi Lisa! We do not place the tree in a tree stand with water, it is simply mounted on lumber, with clothesline running from the top of the tree and secured to the building for additional stability. The lights have never been an issue for us in our experience with the outdoor tree. Unfortunately, squirrels do frequently visit the tree, but haven’t been nearly as destructive as a raccoon that visited end of season last year! The squirrels really aren’t too aggressive with the treats, perhaps providing them treats at a distance would keep them from being bothersome to your tree. I’m excited to hear you’re creating one of your own! Have fun! It is a trial and error experience and I’m continually looking for new ideas! Any other questions, feel free to ask!
My husband and I are so glad that you told us how to replicate the bird tree! We enjoy it so much at Inn at Honey Run. We have a pretty large fir tree in our back yard and will try some of your ideas. Thanks again for including this in the newsletter! We hope to come to in the Inn soon.
Nancy, I’m so glad to hear you and your husband will create a tree of your own! It is very mesmerizing to watch! If you find recipes and/or ideas of your own, please share! I’d love to try new ones!