Hi Tweets,

This isn't about birds, but there were two mosquito repellant recipes in
this mornings Seattle P-I from Ann Lovejoy. She says catnip has been proven
to be more effective than DEET without all the nasty stuff. You can read
the article here:

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/nwgardens/90412_lovejoy10.shtml

I don't know how well they work, but they should smell better than Off. So
if you're worried about WNV here you go.



CATNIP MOSQUITO SPRITZ
MAKES ABOUT 3 CUPS


2 cups catnip, stemmed
3-4 cups mild rice vinegar
Rinse herbs, roll lightly with a rolling pin, then place them in a clean
quart jar and cover with vinegar. Seal jar and store in a dark cupboard for
two weeks.


Shake jar lightly every day or so for two weeks. Strain into a clean jar,
seal and refrigerate for up to 6 months unused.


To use, spritz on exposed skin and around outdoor dining area.



CATNIP AND ROSEMARY MOSQUITO CHASING OIL
MAKES ABOUT 2 CUPS.


2 cups catnip, stemmed
1 cup rosemary, cut in 6-inch sprigs
2 cups grapeseed oil or any light body-care oil
Roll herbs lightly with a rolling pin and pack into a clean jar. Cover with
oil, seal jar and place in a cool, dark cupboard for two weeks.


Shake jar lightly every day or so for two weeks. Strain into a clean jar,
seal and refrigerate for up to 8 months unused.


To use, rub on exposed skin.
Ann Lovejoy


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Cliff Drake
SW Ballard, Seattle, WA
cliff at cliffdrake.net