Regardless of the season, this easy-to-make feeder will be appreciated by your neighborhood birds. It features seed treats to provide them extra energy--particularly suitable during the colder months of the year.

Materials

• 1/4-ounce package of unflavored gelatin
• 2 cups of your favorite wild birdseed

• Three 4-inch mini bundt or fluted pans
• Colorful ribbon

Instructions

1. To make a batch, bring 6 tablespoons of water to a boil. Empty one 1/4-ounce package of unflavored gelatin (we used Knox brand) into 2 tablespoons of cold water in a large bowl. Let the gelatin sit for 1 minute, then add the boiling water and stir for 2 to 3 minutes or until the gelatin has dissolved.
   
   

2. Next, stir 2 cups of your favorite wild birdseed into the gelatin, mixing thoroughly. Let the mixture set for a few minutes, then stir again. Repeat this process a few times, if necessary, allowing the seed to absorb the liquid. Spoon the seed mixture into three 4-inch mini bundt or fluted pans (available at many housewares stores--we got ours at Linens 'n Things--or online cooking supply sites, such as www.nordicware.com).

3. Place the pans in the refrigerator or a cool room and let them set for at least 3 hours. Remove the wreaths from the molds by inverting the pans and tapping along the bottoms. Allow the wreaths to air-dry overnight.
   

4. Finally, tie colorful ribbon around your wreaths and hang them outside in a protected spot, such as under an awning or eaves, where the rain won't melt them.

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• February 2003