Due to heavy snow, the footpath work planned for this week, down by the Millenium Bridge at Pateley, had to be cancelled. However - that did not mean that things did not get done! Let Linda explain........
In a continuation of the joint project by members of Nidderdale
Birdwatchers (Linda) and the NCVs (Tony and Ros E), this week the younger
pupils of Kettlesing Felliscliffe Community Primary School were involved in
identifying some of the common birds visiting gardens in winter and making
simple bird feeders.
Class 2 had a presentation, including looking at a selection of
commercial feeders which the school are going to use in the grounds. This was
followed by some small group practical work to make apple, pine cone, half
orange skin and cardboard drink feeders. After some discussion about where to
site their feeders, they then really enjoyed going out in the deep snow to find
suitable places to hang them. During
this time a shrew decided to run across the snow and was deftly caught by Tony so
that all the children could have a good look at it. The children have agreed to
identify, count and record the birds visiting the feeders.
After morning break Class 1 children had a short presentation
emphasising the importance of feeding birds in winter. They too then worked in
small groups to make simple feeders - honey stick, toast bird and apple. They
really enjoyed getting to grips with the honey, peanut butter and seeds.
(Note
to self from Ros re the honey stick feeders – think sticky – think VERY sticky.
In spite of Bill Oddie’s method being listed as an easy option it is perhaps
not one to attempt again with six children at the same time. More honey on the table, on the hands, on the aprons and in the hair than on the sticks. And seeds. Everywhere. My recovery from the experience is likely to be slow.)
Everyone involved enjoyed the
morning; it is always nice to try and encourage the next generation to think
about birds and wildlife.
(Some thanks from Ros for work done over the last two weeks –
- To Tony for the superb photos that we were able to use to good effect in our presentations over the last two weeks (move over David Bailey!); for organising all the tools and nest box kits used last week and for acting as driver in snowy conditions.
- To Jan for cutting up all the nest box kits.
- To Angus (from the NBs) for helping out with nest box making last week.
- To Linda (from the NBs) for working with me to prepare and deliver the presentations and helping out with the group work this week (she had the peanut butter group - almost as sticky as the honey!)
- To Anita for the offer of a helping hand (and for the supply of pine cones and apples). What a shame the snow prevented her from joining us - although in view of the honey perhaps she was wise to stay away.)
No comments:
Post a Comment