Pinecone Bird Feeder

Before the meeting:

1. Become familiar with trees in your area by visiting The Arbor Day Foundation website.
2. Set up the meeting space so Cub Scouts and adult partners can make pinecone bird feeders.
3. Check to see if anyone has peanut allergies. Find an alternative to peanut butter such as SunButter, made from sunflower seeds.

During the meeting:

1. Have the Cub Scouts open their Tiger handbook to page 18.
2. Tell the den that trees are very helpful and important. Ask a Cub Scout to identify one of the pictures on page 18 that demonstrates how the tree is helpful. The correct answers are:
   • The bird nest – Trees provide shelter for birds, squirrels, and other animals.
   • Tiger breathing- Trees help clean the air.
   • The apple – Some trees have fruit that we or animals can eat, like an apple.
   • Sitting in the shade – Trees can provide shade for us and keep us cool on a sunny day.
3. As Cub Scouts identify the way a tree can be helpful have them draw the line from the box to the tree. Have them color the tree.
4. Bring out the supplies for making the pinecone bird feeders.
5. Pour the birdseed into the bowl.
6. Using the twine and tie it to the top of the pinecone. Have adult partners help Cub Scouts.
7. Use the plastic knife to spread the peanut butter onto the pinecone.
8. Roll the pinecone into the bowl of bird seed and press the seed into the peanut butter.
9. Cover the pinecone completely with birdseed.
10. Find a tree to hang the bird feeder.