Birds are an important part of our ecosystem. Some eat insects and worms, which helps keep those creatures from taking over our yards. Others eat fruits and distribute the seeds of those fruits in their droppings, effectively “planting” new bushes and trees when they do.
Head outside and observe some birds that make their homes in Illinois.
The Experiment
Supplies: None, just your eyes.
What to do: Observe each of the following:
A member of the Thrush family (The most common one is gray with a reddish-orange breast, relishes earthworms, and goes by the scientific name of Turdus migratorius.)
What species of bird did you see? _________________________
A member of the Jay family (The most common one is blue and white with black markings, is known for its noisy calls that mimic other birds, and goes by the scientific name of Cyanocitta cristata.)
What species of bird did you see? _________________________
A member of the Finch family (The most common one is black and yellow with white markings, loves thistles and milkweed, and goes by the scientific name of Spinus tristis.)
What species of bird did you see? _________________________
Links
To find out more about bird species you see when you are out in your yard or out on a hike, visit All About Birds from The Cornell Lab at Cornell University.
