Grouse by the house, moose on the loose, math on a path, and ducks in flux: these are just a few observations from our students this week! Things are picking up for the year; we had eight school reports. Keep it up, and I might even start to like fall!

"It's a bird! It's a bee! It's phenology!" -Hill City Students

John went all out this week, covering insects, salamanders, birds, trees, and "the littler plants." My favorite part: When he casually mentions that belted kingfisher's nest tunnels are longer than the human arm, so "you'll never get in far enough to actually put your hand in the nest." A suspiciously specific frame of reference, John!

Listen to John's report!

I can't believe I haven't discussed The Bird Academy! They have legit online birding courses if you're regretting not taking an ornithology class. (Not feeling ostrich? They offer scholarships!) Or, use the free option: they have learning games! Play "Bird Song Hero" to learn how to use spectrograms to ID bird songs, or explore the map-based wall of birds, or quiz yourself on bird anatomy. There is something for everyone, regardless of skill level, age, or experience! Plus, there are videos and open lectures gullore. Bad puns aside, it's truly a fantastic resource: enjoy, and send me fun facts as you learn them!

Toucan do it!

Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) Ojibwe: Jeshiwish+ag.