It’s uplifting to know we are halfway between winter and spring—cheers to longer days and more light. Still, we’re facing cold weather, and so are the birds.  But you can help provide them with energy to withstand chilly weather by making homemade suet! With February break around the corner, it’s a fun activity for kids.

There are there many recipes available for free online, but search for one that’s vegan (some recipes have lard, which is not necessary). 

We especially like these two recipes!

2 cups shelled, unsalted peanuts

½ cup raisins

2 – 3 Tablespoons cornmeal

Process peanuts in a food processor until the consistency of peanut butter.  Add the raisins and process another minute.  Then add cornmeal and process again.  Press this mixture into a mold of your choice.

1 1/2 cups coconut oil or Soybean/Cottonseed Oil Shortening (This  option is  typically palm oil-free and can be used in the same way as traditional shortening.) 

3/4 cups nut butter 

3 1/2 cups wild bird seed

1 cup quick oats

1/2 cup corn meal

Ice cube tray

Mix the dry ingredients of bird seed, oats, and corn meal together and set aside. Combine the coconut oil  or soybean/cottonseed oil shortening and nut butter in a separate bowl and melt. Stir until completely combined. Pour the melted mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Spoon mixture into the ice cube tray. 

Freeze for one to two hours and place in your suet feeder!

Note: Not recommended for outdoor temperatures above 50 degrees .