Honing in on Homes

That might look like a plain hole in a tree to you, but to a black-capped chickadee or to a red squirrel, it is an important refuge from danger and cold. And a home is every bit as important to them as yours is to you. In this program, students become familiar with what characteristics make for an effective shelter. Students will have an opportunity to construct accurate robin nests, investigate various nest designs, examine a variety of real bird nests, and participate in some fun and educational bird nest games. They also learn about the critical components of habitat, recognizing that habitat depletion is the single most important reason for loss of wildlife in Canada. Investigating tree cavities, exploring galls, hiding under thickets, students come to experience firsthand, the importance of shelter, food and space in a well-structured ecosystem. We’ll also discuss how students can enhance the habitat of their backyards and schoolyards.