Since the bird survey a few weekends ago, we certainly have taken a deeper interest in the wonders of the local birdlife.  Last weekend, we made a trip to Hamilton Zoo.


We visited parts of the zoo we don't always explore.  A mild Autumn and Winter so far yielded ducklings, which waddled over our feet on the path to the Zoo's Wetlands.  Once we reached the main Wetlands boardwalk, we saw swans in white and black.



In the free-flight aviary we were very lucky to see a duck.  These are usually hiding in the water below the look out posts, but this time Leandra was able to go right up to one to say "hello". 


I was excited to hear Tui calls close by.  When I looked up, this is the sight that greeted me.  I could have reached out to touch him, he was so close.  What a wonder!


Since our last zoo visit, Audra had suddenly become interested in the creatures around her as well.  There were lots of smiles, and pointing.  She made a lovely little friend in the free-flight aviary too.  He even landed on her head at one point, much to her amusement.

This weekend, we took a few bags of whole grain bread down to the Lake and took a walk around looking for more birds.  We met some Canadian Geese, Australian Coots, Ducks, Pukeko as well as Pigeons and Sparrows. As we walked, we collected feathers.  We even managed some Pukeko feathers which are black with a vibrant blue tip. 

Audra had never fed birds before, so it was a learning curve for her.  When I first handed her the bread, she thought it was a snack and happily tucked into it (lucky I bought fresh bread!).  After watching Leandra and I break pieces off to give to the birds, she got right into it.  Her aim and strength of throwing was not great, but the intent was there which was amazing to see.


Leandra was in her element, feeding the ducks in the water and the Pigeons on the boardwalks.  Any time with birds is a good time for her.  For me, it's about embracing what makes her heart sing.  Engaging her in learning through an interest - but also building those family memories.  I remember so clearly days spent with my own parents, a picnic, stories of their childhood, feeding ducks, collecting cicada shells.  I share that with my own children too.

After walking for a wee bit Audra decided it was nap time, and Leandra set herself up an art table at a park bench.  She made a paper bird and attached the feathers with sticky tape.  She asked me to video this and made an Art Attack style clip to share as well. 

And here is the video.  Its 5 minutes long and she talks solidly right through it. Be aware that you aren't going to learn much about how to make a paper bird....: