This spring, Presque Isle Audubon partnered with Sister Pat Lupo at the Inner-City Neighborhood Art House to host a three-session series on the topic of birds for an afterschool program. We had children of various ages from around the city participate in the program. It was a great opportunity to bring the joy of birdwatching to the next generation of environmental stewards.

During the first session, children measured their own wingspans and wingbeats, and compared them to local bird species. They also had the opportunity to connect with avian ambassadors during a special program with Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. The second session offered an opportunity for students to express their creativity through watercolor bird paintings. Each child demonstrated outstanding talent and meaningful learning in their work. For the final session, everyone learned how to use field guides and binoculars, and we hiked around the city to observe urban bird populations.

I would like to thank the amazing staff at the Art House for collaborating with us. It was an honor to offer this learning experience to the students. After working with these children, I have immense hope for the future of our planet and the lovely creatures that share it with us.

From TERN OF EVENTS, The Presque Isle Audubon Society Newsletter, June/July 2022
by Andrew Sipple, Chair of the Education Committee