Bird feeder goes out on a limb

Dear Heloise: Some time ago, I remember seeing an article on how to make a bird feeder from a cut tree limb. Could you please print this again? I thought it was a great idea! Bea James, via e-mail

This is a simple thing to do, and it makes a great family or youth project also! Start with a dry, cut tree limb long enough to make several perches (10 to 15 inches) and wide enough (about 3 to 4 inches) to drill holes to put food in. Drill several holes, making them about an inch wide and deep. They can be spaced around the trunk of the limb.

To make a perch for the birds, cut a small dowel rod into pieces long enough for a bird to perch on. Drill a hole for the dowel just below the larger hole. Using a dab of wood glue, insert the dowel. This will be a great place for birds to sit and enjoy a meal!

To hang the feeder, attach a sturdy cup hook on the top. Using a chain or straightened coat hanger, hang the feeder on a tree in your yard, or any other convenient spot.

For the food, combine 1 cup of cheap peanut butter with 1 cup of lard. Mix in a little cornmeal to thicken so the mixture will stay in the holes. You can add some birdseed and/or raisins. Put about 1‚Ñ4 cup in each hole. If you have any left, store it in the fridge. It should last for a couple of feedings, so don’t make too large a batch at one time.

Try this, and your birds will love you for it! Heloise

Dear Readers: Jerri Boni and Steve Nolte of Pierre, S.D., sent a photo of Willie (English pointer/setter) sitting on Maggie (yellow Lab) to get a better view. Jerri says: “We take our dogs fishing with us. Willie decided to get a better view of the lake, so he sat on Maggie. She didn’t seem to mind, so he stayed there for quite a while. Gave us a good laugh!”

To see Willie and Maggie, visit www.Heloise.com. Heloise

Dear Heloise: We bought our daughter a betta fish with a pretty bowl. I wasn’t sure what to put in the bottom. I found lots of pretty colored marbles and flat stones at a craft store. My daughter picked out marbles that matched her room. Melissa Hebert, via e-mail

Dear Heloise: I love cats, have two and often make toys for them. One they like best is really cheap and easy. I use a small, empty, wooden thread spool. I pull a length of yarn through the hole and tie a large knot on both ends. This allows the cat to carry the spool and toss it for fun. My cat hides the spool, then looks for it. Betty B., Mill City, Ore.

• Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate