South Dennis, MA
Cape Cod is an ideal habitat for so many species of bird. We humans need to upkeep local habitats because we need healthy surroundings as well. On our way to the field this afternoon, we saw & heard species after species, which left less time for the game I had in mind. These young bird nerds are getting great at learning the bird calls that we hear and being able to identify which species is making which sound. I LOVE it when someone blurts out: "Song Sparrow!" or "Pine Warbler!"
Taking in nature becomes even more of a gift when you can experience it all by using more than one sense. This is why I do my best to keep the games we play and the lessons we share, as hands-on as possible. Hearing bird song is a lovely way to tie bird identification into my lessons. I also enjoy incorporating active games to keep all interested...
What are the four essentials for every living thing? Food - Water - Shelter - Space
A healthy habitat supports these necessities. What happens when one of the four needed aspects becomes less, unhealthy or non-existent? An incomplete habitat cannot successfully support life. When we discuss these concepts I like to include the fact that birds are survivors, but they are quite sensitive to even slight changes in the ecology of an area. If you are noticing a lot of birds, and several species, that tends to mean there is a well developed ecosystem supporting nearby natural life. Birds are an excellent barometer of sorts relaying how healthy the world surrounding us is. The healthier the habitat, the better for all life forms...humans included. Sometimes it is necessary to point out the connection with humans so that those who are perhaps less in tune with the outdoors will begin to understand how vital it is to protect ecosystems, for ALL forms of life. (double click photos to enlarge)
Our List:
Pine Warbler
Chipping Sparrow
Ring-billed Gull
American Robin
European Starling
Killdeer
American Crow
Mourning Dove
Brown-headed Cowbird
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| Can you pick out the bird silhouette among the pine cone silhouettes? |
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| Chipping Sparrow |
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| Chipping Sparrow |
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| Killdeer |
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| Forming the habitat space in the Habitat Game |
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| Not all "birds" survived in our habitat |
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