Looking for a winter holiday fundraising idea you can feel good about? These easy to make winter suet feeders made from Birch branches will bring joy to birdlovers of all ages and food to hungry feathered friends. Market them as earth-friendly gifts that help nature. Use already dead birch or aspen wood and cut branches that are a big around as your forearm at 1-2 foot lengths. Drill several one-inch wide holes at a 45 degree angle (facing upwards) along the side of the branch and fill with suet balls (recipe below). Attach an eyebolt to the top as the hanger and a piece of wire long enough to hang down from a tree.
To make suet balls, combine whole wheat flour, corn meal, Crisco, chunky peanut butter and roll into balls. Freeze to hold their shape until ready to distribute the feeders. Sell recipe cards with the feeders to encourage long-term feeding and enjoyment.
Invite a bird enthusiast to make a presentation about winter birds where feeders are marketed and orders placed. Make feeders as a group activity with some hot chocolate and festive music.
