Bird's Nest Enhancers

For years we raised livestock...Saanen dairy goats, horse and pony and a calf here and there.  Naturally in the spring these animals would shed their winter coats in preparation for the long hot summer.  Many nights were spent combing and grooming the animals, including our dog and cats, in order to assist them in refining their summer attire.  As spring progressed it was always a delight to look up and see how the birds had used this soft material to line their nests. 

 

We have a phoebe that nests in our barn's loafing shed each year.  She faithfully weaves  animal hair inside of her nest to prepare a soft, warm environment for her eggs.  What a marvel it is to see the craftsmanship and ingenuity of these birds! 

It is amazing!

Picture source:  http://eastgwillimburywow.blogspot.com/2013/04/eastern-phoebewild-bird.html

 

 

This is a nest we found in our yard after a wind storm that has a lining of goat hair.

 

Here's a fun activity for your family to try from the book Miraculous, Magical Moments in Minutes:  Over 500 Quick, Easy Activities for Adults and Children to Share by Becky Baxa (available in paper back and Kindle edition from Amazon.com)

NEST ENHANCERS 

Lay out short pieces of colorful yarn somewhere in your yard.

Ideas for yarn containers/placement:

        Place the yarn in an empty plastic fruit container (from the produce department or any other
        plastic container) or fill an unused suet cage and set it on top of a post or picnic table. 

       You could hang it on an iron shepherds hook that is not quite ready for your hanging flower
        planter.  

       Yarn could be placed in a mesh bag (like oranges or potatoes come in from the grocery store) and
       hang it from a tree branch.

      Decorate a bush or small tree by draping colorful pieces of yarn over the branches.


Tip:  make sure the yarn is placed high enough away from predators and somewhere where the birds
           feel safe.

Photo Source:  http://www.fiberfarm.com/2011/03/the-first-day-of-spring

                                                 

 As time progresses, become nature observers and watch for evidence that the birds

have used your donation in their nest building efforts. 

 

Watch the yarn... is it disappearing or becoming frayed? 

 

Watch birds nesting behaviors to see where nests are being built.  Then, carefully and respectfully sneak a peek to see the masterpieces that have been built!

Photo source:  http://cache.lionbrand.com/Newsletters/29178.html


What other signs of Spring can you find?  Go on a Spring Scavenger Hunt!
Explore and Have FUN!
 

 

            

            

Source:

Miraculous, Magical Moments in Minutes:

Over 500 Quick, Easy Activities for Adults and Children to Share

by Becky Baxa

Available from http://www.Amazon.com

in both Kindle and Paperback versions

 

Outdoor "Safari"

The sun shone brightly and the yard called me outdoors.  The ground was wet due to recent rain and all the plants were washed clean and turning a delightful shade of Spring green. Unexpected, delightful discoveries were found as I pulled weeds.

Under one bush, two large eyes peeked out at me.  Only the slightest movement was detected as a clump of grass was removed.  Mr. Toad stuck his head out of the ground just far enough to investigate the weather to determine if he was ready to come out and play.


 The interstate of roots revealed hiding earthworms.  Many more hid under leaves and dense plant growth as they had come to the surface so as to not get wet in their underground tunnels.



I noticed the trees just starting to show a hint of color as the buds shed their coats to release the protected new leaves.

Early Spring flowers had raised their graceful necks and displayed the latest fashion of colors.



Birds sang a glorious concert. 

It was a delightful afternoon!

Spring is the perfect time to go exploring with children! 

They often see so much more than adults. 

Optional equipment for a "yard safari":

*  An empty plastic peanut butter jar with holes in the lid or a plastic fruit box (like strawberries or
    blueberries come in) make great observation containers. 

Remember to catch, watch and then release back to the place you found your critter.

*  Magnifying glass

*  Binoculars ( smaller children could rubber band together two toilet paper cardboard tubes for
   "binoculars" or use a paper towel tube as a "spy scope".  This helps children focus on small areas.

*  Journal -for the child that likes to write or one that you are encouraging their written skills.    
              Record observations, findings and reactions of your exploration.
             
*  Sketch book - for the child that likes to draw

Parent's role:

Listen closely to what your children say during this time together.  Their comments and conversation  will give you clues to the activities you may want to try once you return indoors and for the coming days. 

For example:  If your child is particularly interested in earthworms:

     * look up information on what they eat, how long they live, how they digest food, why they are
        good for the soil etc.

     *read a book about earthworms

     *make up a story about earthworms

     *draw a picture of an earthworm

     *depending on the age of the child, you may want to start a compost bin and watch earthworms in
       action

     *make a desert with gummy worms

     *make a worm magnet with a Styrofoam packing "peanut"

You get the idea. 

These are only a few things you can do to foster interest and gain knowledge about earthworms.

Whatever your child is particularly interested in, find supporting activities and learning that can take place after you explore.  This correlation will increase learning, promote communication  and develop stronger personal relationships.

Most of all, interact with your children, the environment and have fun!


 Fun source for great animal facts.
http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/animals/creaturefeature/earthworms/