Hidden Hazards, Helping Hands

It can be dangerous out there in the big, wild world. If you know what to watch out for, you can protect yourself and other living things who share this land. 

Barb wire is dangerous for animals & humans

Some plants really make you sick while others give us energy for survival. See if you can explain the two plants around the farm that animals (except bees) should stay away from and two that are great to eat. Remember Toxic Plant Tag? What role did you play in the game and how much energy were you able to get by the end?

We know another plant that is a land BULLY taking over spaces pushing other plants out. Who is this plant and what should we do about it (Garlic Mustard - pull it up by the roots).

We did some big and little tasks on the farm. Tell the story about getting rid of plastic pollution. What other hazards did we notice? (barbed wire, steel guardrail, steel rim). Did we help in other ways to create new hiding places for animals around the farm?

Monarch and Lynx scrap out the Tree Swallow nesting box

Can you imagine what the adults in your house would do if they had wander time? What would they have chosen to do today? Talk about the human-sized bird’s nest built using the dried plants brought down by the flood, the stone bridge across the stream, leafy squirrel drey, and tree climbing practice. One group discovered a large sheet of wood. What was it used for?

In the afternoon we stepped into the shoes of an arborist as Antman shared more of his knowledge about trees. Did you know that suckers or stems growing at the base of a tree steal energy and water from trees? This means the tree can't make as many flowers or fruit. Take a look at the trees where you live to see if any of them are in need of a “tree doctor”.

Blue Racer Trims a Branch

In our work as naturalists we noted the growth of the new spring plants. We gathered samples of these plants to help us become better at identifying them in other places. Do you think on your next hike you might be able to spot one of these plants by the shape of their leaves or colour of their flowers?

We also spent time with our tree friends, gathering up fallen sticks and branches to make brush piles. What do small mammals like rabbits use these piles for? (food, shelter, safety) .

Why our tree friends are so important to us. What positive quality or qualities did you write on your tree’s star? Now take a moment to think about what important quality you bring to Coyote Nature school and then give yourself a star!