Braving the wind and chill, we had 20 preschoolers and their parents join the OCC bird walk this morning, at Tudek Park.
At the very beginning of the walk, we witnessed a RTHA being mobbed by two American Crows, chasing it away from the tree line. We saw a Red-bellied Woodpecker and a Downy Woodpeckers, and lots of American Robin. Because the wind was so strong at times, we had little chance to see many birds, but we did get to hear several. Some favourites of the children were the Carolina Wren ("They say tea-kettle!"), and the "Cheeseburger bird". The children were delighted to see a groundhog hole.
Catering to children means letting go of expectations of silence and perfection. Sometimes the children will just run around, pick sticks, and kick leaves. The most important thing that can happen is that these 3-5 y.o. remember this experience fondly so they have a positive association with birds and being outside with their parents and friends, and when they are adults they advocate for birds.
I will lead a child-oriented walk, open to the public, Sat 27th at Tudek Park. If there is a child in your life who would like to join, please let them know!
