Written by Katelyn Bissat, Provincial Network Coordinator
On a warm sunny morning in July, Kelowna NatureKids enjoyed an Explorer Day at Mission Creek Regional Park, a beautiful spot for families to enjoy walking trails, a playground, a children’s fishing pond, picnic areas, and a Kokanee spawning channel. A friendly park interpreter from the Robert Hobson Environmental Education Centre for the Okanagan led NatureKids on a walk focusing on birds species that can be found in the Okanagan.
The education centre offers free family programs, educational displays and fun discovery backpacks that families can sign out! The centre is bordered by lovely pollinator gardens, plenty of parking, washrooms and a large outdoor playground and picnic area.
As NatureKids walked along the trails they learned to identify several different bird species including the downy woodpecker, a small woodpecker species that is larger than a sparrow but smaller than a robin. They eat mainly insects with a small amount of their diet being plants like berries and grains.
NatureKids also learned some great birding tips and how to use a bird identification book! Some birding books will also have a checklist in the back so you can keep track of all the birds that you have seen.
For a great backpack bird resource check out the NatureKids BC Regional Bird Cards!
A big thank you to Kelowna club leader, Maja Pannes, for helping organize this Explorer Day. The morning was filled with wonderful opportunities to connect with community members and feathered friends!
Experience Explorer Days with your family, learn about nature and receive a free subscription to NatureWild!