Contributed by Pam Herd, Director of Conservation Education
As we begin decorating for the holidays, here are some suggestions for you to consider.
Synopsis
"Night Tree" tells the story of an unusual family tradition. As the brilliant moonlight illuminates the path through the forest, this family makes their seasonal journey to decorate their favorite evergreen with popcorn and cranberry ropes, slices of fruit and sunflower-seed ornaments as a present for the living creatures of the woods.
Use wildlife crafts as a way to create your own family traditions, keep young holiday guests busy and provide food for our wild friends.
Wild Bird Fruit Kabobs
You will need various fruits or fall vegetables (apples, oranges, pears, grapes, berries, squash or pumpkin) and string, twine an old wire hanger or other flexible wire. Slice larger fruits into manageable sizes and poke a hole in the center of each piece.
If you're using string or twine, tie a knot in one end of a 3- to 4-foot long piece. Thread the fruit and vegetables onto the string and hang it from a tree branch.
If you're using a wire hanger or other type of wire, simply thread the wire through the food. Bend the open end around to secure the food and hang. (The hook of the hanger makes an easy way to hang the kabob on a limb.)
Popcorn and Cranberry Rope
You will need popcorn, cranberries, thread and a blunt-tip needle. Cut a piece of thread to your desired length. Using the needle, string the popcorn and cranberries onto the thread. Knot the ends and drape the rope on a tree.
You'll find ideas for other wildlife crafts such as pine cone bird feeders, natural bird seed wreaths and gelatin bird seed wreaths.
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