Truth be told, the science part is only secondary to this: getting people, especially kids hooked on nature.
Jeff was one of my Teen Treks kids. He mentioned that he really likes birds and reptiles. I said, “You should come bird banding with me tomorrow.” And he did. And he has come several times! He is looking forward to Saw Whets in the fall!
Kyle, a student from Canisius, was my learning buddy at several banding sessions. Here, he is helping Jeff learn how to record data.
A family came biking by and stopped to learn about bird banding. Here is Tyler holding the last bird of the SWAT season: a Magnolia Warbler.
When he went to let it go, it didn’t fly right away. I guess it liked Tyler!
Filed under: bird banding, bird conservation, bird research, birds, nature
Very cute pictures. I think it is great the children participate in the bird bandings. It’s a great way to learn to identify them.
Of the many fine,informative posts you have made, replete with often stunning photos, — this post of Tyler and Jeff holding a bird is among the best ……..and certainly the most telling of what the essence of caring,understanding, and teaching is all about.
I have not seen the term “nature hero” anywhere — but you are certainly one. I salute you.
Oh, man…. I’m blushing now.
What a beautiful warbler. It’s so nice to see kids get involved with nature. Did the catbird “meow” for Jeff?
Ha ha.. No, Mary… But it did squawk a lot.