Nature in the Middle The sights and sounds of birds around us are increasing every day as we move further into spring. This annual symphony of color and song is the result of something called migration. Migration is a strategy used by many bird species to survive seasonal changes in their …
Environmental Education
Connections: Attract Orioles To Your Yard!
Baltimore Orioles are back! We're not talking about the baseball team (though we can't wait for the Sox to play again!), we're talking about one of the brightest and most beautiful bird species in the entire country. The first of these migratory birds have returned to Maine just a few days ago, …
Connections: Nature’s Reading List
Looking for ways for you and your family to stay connected to nature during this time of social distancing? While getting outside and exploring is certainly the best way to experience nature, sometimes that just isn't possible. So, grab a book and take in some nature that way. There are many …
Family Fun Connections: Listening to Birds
Have you been hearing more birds lately? Each spring, as resident songbirds begin to sing and new migrants join in by the day, I vow anew to become better at identifying birds by ear. If your child has already mastered barnyard animal sounds (or even if they haven't!), why not try learning some bird …
Connections: Mast Landing scavenger hunt
Mast Landing Audubon Sanctuary is a little gem right outside of downtown Freeport. It's often overlooked but is a great place for a short family-friendly walk. If you have a chance to visit, see if you can spot any of these things below! This is an action scavenger hunt, in which you are challenged …
Connections: Plagiarizing Nature
Nature in the Middle (grades 6-8) Most middle schoolers have heard the warnings from their teachers about the perils of plagiarism; and for good reasons! So listen to your teacher's advice and practice ethical work habits; trust me, you'll be glad that you did! But, let me suggest that we do a …
Connections: Everyone Loves Hummingbirds
With their shimmering feathers and ability to hover and fly backwards, hummingbirds have always fascinated us. Historically, they have been seen as symbols of love, peace, playfulness, and joy. In nature, they signal the arrival of plants, flowers, insects, and warmer days to come. In Maine, the …
Connections: A Blanding’s Turtle Story Walk
It's almost time to start watching for turtles crossing the road. As turtles emerge from their winter brumation (the reptile and amphibian version of hibernation), they look for places to lay eggs. One way to learn about this is to read A Blanding's Turtle Story, a picture book written by Melissa …
Family Fun Connections: Earth Day
As you could probably guess, I'm a big believer in acting like it's Earth Day everyday. I try to be mindful of my impact on outdoor spaces I visit, use resources with care, and do what I can to create habitat all year, not just on April 22nd. But what to do when Earth Day rolls around, and the 50th …