Viscount Alexander Public School recently received a spectacular visit from Jason and Gen of Nature Canada, but their special guests weren't just visitors they were our neighbours. The team came to educate students (K-6) about their NatureHood', the vibrant local biodiversity thriving in our own community, with a captivating focus on the kings and queens of the sky: birds of prey.
The atmosphere in the gymnasium was electric when Jason and Gen unveiled their three majestic companions: a kestrel, a red-tailed hawk, and a great horned owl.
A Surprise in the Backyard
The biggest revelation of the day was the powerful sense of discovery. Students were surprised to learn that all three of these impressive hunters live and hunt right here, in the parks and wooded areas surrounding their school.
The presentation turned a distant natural history lesson into an immediate, personal connection with the local environment. Even Gen and Jason were impressed, noting that some students surprised them with their existing knowledge of local raptor species.
Laughter and Learning
While the sight of the birds was thrilling, some of the most memorable learning moments were tied to biology and a bit of toilet humour.
Gen and Jason shared a fascinating fact about raptor anatomy: they lack a bladder. When the birds need to excrete waste, it's an immediate affair. This tidbit proved hilariously entertaining for the younger crowd.
The Nature Canada visit was more than just a presentation; it was a powerful reminder that the wild world isn't confined to faraway forests. It exists right here, in our neighbourhood, inspiring a new generation of local conservationists.
