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Lucy’s Homemade Bird Suet Recipe

Lucy’s Homemade Bird Suet Recipe

(by Lucy Murayda, Education Assistant)

Feeding birds in the winter is such a joy. Watching them flutter around the feeder, especially against a snowy backdrop, brings life and color to even the dreariest days. It’s also heartwarming to know you’re helping them survive the cold months when food is harder to find. Plus, their different calls and behaviors make every moment feel like a little nature documentary in your backyard!

This bird suet recipe is perfect for keeping birds well-fed during the colder months and offers a great variety of nutrients to support their energy needs. Some of the most common species that will be attracted to your feeder include the Downy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, and Tufted Titmouse. Try out the recipe this week and watch birds during the Backyard Winter Bird Survey weekend – don’t forget to report your findings!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. beef suet*
  • 1/2 cup dried, unsweetened cranberries
  • 1/2 cup all-natural, unsalted peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup oatmeal (quick or rolled, not instant)
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal (finely ground preferred)
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seed hears

*Ask for it at your butcher or grocery store – you can substitute it with lard if unavailable.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Suet: Chop the beef suet into small pieces. Heat it over low heat in a saucepan until it liquefies. Strain it through cheesecloth or a fine strainer to remove any solids. Let it cool slightly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter, oatmeal, cornmeal, sunflower seed hearts, and cranberries. Gradually add the melted suet to the mixture, stirring to combine everything evenly.
  3. Shape the Suet: Pour the mixture into molds (e.g., muffin tins, loaf pans, or silicone molds). If you’re using a suet cage feeder, shape the mixture to fit the cage. Let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze until solid.
  4. Serve: Place the suet in your feeder, hang it in a shaded area, and wait patiently for the birds to arrive!

Enjoy the splendor of nature’s beauty and happy bird-(feed)ing!

*Feeding birds from December 1st to April 1st is recommended by New Hampshire Fish and Game because natural food sources can be scarce during the winter months, and feeding helps sustain resident birds during cold weather. After April 1st, suet should be removed to prevent attracting bears as they emerge from hibernation.*

Bird photos by Sage Boucher, SNHU Student.