I have always loved the outdoors, but before the pandemic I didn’t have a particular interest in birds. Then when there were no photoshoots in 2020, I had my little backyard birds to pose for me. Now I love my backyard birds so much! My husband said he looks at them as additional pets we should take care of, just like our pups.

There is alot of debate out there about feeding wild animals or birds, but these creatures live in our yard year round and I want to help them thrive. We have had a family of 6 bluebirds all winter this year. However, with the current outbreak of bird flu, make sure to check whether feeding birds is currently ok. Also make sure to clean and disinfect your feeders regularly to prevent spread.

The bluebird feeder pictured in the images below is from The Bluebird Shed in Bella Vista, a wonderful place, also working to help encourage the population of bluebirds in our area through the Bella Vista Bluebird Society.

So why should we want bluebirds specifically, other than the fact that they’re so cute, and the most beautiful shade of blue? They eat tons of mosquitos! Enough said. I like to treat my bluebirds to a delicious batch of “bluebird pudding” from time to time. It’s easy to make and keep a batch in the fridge, so get out your lard and get ready for a bird party!

Bluebird Pudding

The Bella Vista Bluebird Society’s recipe is 2 parts lard, 1 part peanut butter, 5 parts cornmeal. I have trouble finding cornmeal that hasn’t been degerminated, so I use grits instead. I also add some oats and cranberries. Look up what they like and get creative! Just make sure it is an appropriate food, cut into the right size for them.

Melt the lard, stir in the peanut butter and heat more as needed to mix. Then add cornmeal and mix well. Refrigerate overnight before using. Store in the frig.

• 1/2 cup peanut butter

• 1 cup lard

• 2 1/2 cups grits (old fashioned, not quick)

• 1/3 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup rolled oats