Activities: Birding in China
Science: Classroom Bird Feeders
In this week's field update, Wang Ximin describes how he was first introduced to bird watching through an article in a local newspaper. His initial interest in bird watching has grown into a dream to start a non-profit organization focusing on birds and their conservation in China. As teachers, you have the opportunity to introduce your students to birds and other wildlife (and potentially to instill a life long interest in the environment and conservation) through your classroom activities and field trips. This week, our student activity focuses on this concept through learning about birds near your home - after all you just might have a budding birder, like Ximin, in your classroom!
The fall is the perfect time to set up a feeder near your classroom to view and learn about local song birds. As the fall migration continues, your feeder may be visited by flocks of birds preparing for their southern flights - or if you live further south - your feeder might be visited by migrates from the north. During the winter, your students may be exposed to a more limited number of species, but during this time they can focus on identifying and observing these birds (click here for directions on leading a behavior study using your feeders!).
Before you set up your feeder:
Step 1
Decide on the type of feeder that you will install. Different song birds feed on different types of seed, and they type of feeder you select will influence the variety of bird species that you will attract. For example, cardinals and chickadees prefer larger seeds, such as striped or black-oil sunflower seeds, while finches prefer smaller nyger or thistle seeds, and nuthatches and woodpeckers feed on suet or peanut butter. If you have room, try setting up more than one type of feeder, as this will increase the number and type of birds that are attracted to your area. You may also want to add a bird bath near your feeders. This is especially important in colder climates, where fresh water becomes more limited as water freezes over the winter (remember to install a heater to keep the water from freezing!).
Step 2
Decide on a location for your feeder(s). Choose a location that is easily visible from your classroom and is protected from wind and rain or snow. Place the feeder near existing bushes or trees, if possible, which will provide cover for the birds while they are feeding. If you don't have birds visiting your feeder right away, don't worry, as it may take them a few days to discover this new food source. Remember to monitor the feeders regularly to ensure that they are kept clean and full.
If you already have a feeder at your school, email a photo of your feeder to trackingcranes@savingcranes.org to share with other students through the Tracking Cranes website!
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