Nature Journaling Part V - TREES

Secret house finch nest discovery

April 30, 2020

Ocean View School Oak Ambassador Natalie T. was surprised to discover this nest with eggs hidden behind a light fixture at her house on April 30, 2020.

Morro Coast Audubon Society friends helped us identify this as a house finch nest. The house finch is known for using a variety of interesting nesting spots.

Look below to see what Natalie found in the nest on May 12!

Update: See Natalie's May 27 photo of the almost ready to fledge baby finches!

May 12, 2020

May 27, 2020

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Earth Day

We asked the Oak Ambassadors what the word stewardship means and we got a lot of amazing responses. These kids really care about our shared Earth. Here's a sample from Ocean View Oak Ambassador Penny:

Stewardship means to just be a good person and help out as much as you can. This can apply to nature and land because if you are keeping Earth clean, and respecting nature, then you are showing stewardship towards nature and land. You can be a good steward of nature by respecting every plant and animal's boundaries and not being invasive in their habitats.

On a more light-hearted note, Ocean View Oak Ambassador Jackson made special Earth Day cookies!


 

Mayfly discovery!

Vineyard School Oak Ambassador alumnus Tristan and his mom (and Learning Among the Oaks volunteer docent) Nancy discovered this fresh new mayfly adult, ready to leave the shed skin of aquatic nymph behind. When it's time for the adult to emerge, the nymph leaves the water. Thanks to LATO friend and entomologist Dennis Sheridan for helping with identification. Mayflies are members of the Order Ephemeroptera, derived from the Greek word emphemeros, meaning "day." It's a fitting name because the adult mayfly has a very short life span - from a few hours to no more than a few days. Learn more about the mayfly life cycle -- super interesting!

Spotted tussock moth building a cocoon!

Building a Cocoon the Spotted Tussock Moth from Bob Armstrong on Vimeo.

This was shared by Vineyard School Oak Ambassador Rosie!

Nature Journaling Part IV - Birds