At a loss trying to find entertaining, but wholesome and outdoorsy activities for the kids this school holiday? Amateur birding could be the way to go.
The timing is perfect to get the kids started on the annual Garden Birds Survey, with just two days left before it finishes on Sunday 5 July. It’s low effort, high reward – just look and listen for birds in your backyard for one hour.
Wellington’s Dave Allen, DOC Programme Lead Natural Capital, says winter is a busy time for birds.
“I’m sure many Wellington folk hear birds making quite a racket in the morning, and kids may be transfixed listening to and seeing birds in their own gardens,” says Dave. “It’s one of the best times to experience birds in your backyard, as they’re busy sheltering from winter weather and foraging for food.
Dave says Wellington is a great place for bird watching, right on your back doorstep.
“Children in Wellington get to experience native birds like kākā and kererū in their neighbourhoods and while they’re out naturing with friends and family. It’s something that might seem impossible to Gen Xers and Baby Boomers just a few decades ago.
“All over Wellington, you’re likely to see kererū, especially as Matariki is when we see them gorging on berries. They’ll sit on the ground, not moving, but that’s okay – they’re just a bit tipsy. People are also likely to see grey warblers, and the volume of their song is surprisingly loud for such a tiny bird.
“Tūī are everywhere at this time, and korimako/bellbird are becoming more common. Kākā are noisy and boisterous all year round, but they’re definitely still flying around in winter.
“And for people on the western skyline of Wellington, this time of year can be a real treat; they’ll hopefully see and hear their local kiwi emerging from the bush and into people’s back gardens.”
“The Capital’s huge array of birdlife can inspire kids to get interested in the amazing nature in our own backyards,and encourage more birds into them.”
