From January through February, Saint James’ Episcopal School students were immersed in ornithology (the scientific study of birds) in preparation for the International Great Backyard Bird Count at the end of February. They learned to identify birds based on silhouette, color, or call, and learned to explain the difference between shore birds, land birds, raptors, and song birds, describing the role of each feathered friend in its habitat. Feathers were discovered to serve multiple purposes including for digging, softening nests, and even protecting a bird’s delicate skin. Students also learned about the different nesting structures birds build, and developed a deeper understanding of just how complex and important birds are to their environments.
As they continue their study of bird migration, students will expand their knowledge of the difficult journey that lies ahead for these small but mighty winged creatures. In order to help our feathered friends along the way, they have constructed nesting balls in our Audubon-certified wildlife garden with a Master Gardener and parishioner. These nesting balls can be hung from a tree branch or advantageous location, and offer birds a variety of organic nesting materials needed to construct a home.
As a natural expression of our Episcopal Identity, the students asked the Saint James’ parishioners to share in our commitment to help the birds as they embark on their arduous journey by taking a nesting ball created by the Saint James’ student body at the end of the service. All 100 nesting balls were taken, and we hope to continue our study and advocacy for some of God’s littlest, but mightiest, creatures.