Traditionally, MUCC’s AmeriCorps member runs a small learning program for the campers at MUCC’s Michigan Out-of-Doors Youth Camp. There was only one topic that I knew I wanted to be in the program I taught them: birds! I have always been passionate about birds and birding, so I was determined to get the youth involved with these animals.
While being a bird nerd myself, why should I teach youth about birds and birding you ask? Birding can provide many social opportunities, from clubs to festivals, to just a small local group it provides a sense of community. You can make fun competitions out of birding such as finding the most species over some time with a friend or even challenge yourself. You might get lucky and find a rare species that few have ever seen in the state, giving you some bragging rights. It can provide some sense of discovery and exploration as you go to new locations for birding and can provide some peaceful experiences.
During my time at camp, I had a plethora of activities planned which all focused on birds. I would start off my days there by having the campers learn how to properly use binoculars and monoculars as well as adopting some bird-watching techniques. I always sprinkled in bird facts too. After that, I would take the campers on a bird hike to see if we could find some birds. I also enjoyed doing a bird listening activity with them so they could hear all the different sounds birds make.
On some days though when the birds did not want to cooperate, I had alternative activities in my back pocket. Bird anatomy-focused activities such as using various household items to act as bird beaks were one of them. Another popular one was using construction paper to simulate the strength of a bird’s hollow bones. We also did a fun bird camouflage game. By the end of the summer, I was wishing I could have taught the campers even more about Michigan birds. I did at least withhold my goal of getting them introduced to and hopefully interested in how unique birds are. This can give them the excuse to go outside more and explore!
Author: Tyler Lancaster, MUCC 2023 AmeriCorps Member