On Sunday, February 5, 2017, the Young Naturalists Club of GSBAS enjoyed a winter walk through the Brooksite property. The attendees received a lesson on local backyard birds by looking at photos for identifying features. Armed with binoculars and a checklist of local bird species, the children proceeded with determination to seek out our feathered friends. Members were advised by Miss Juliane that the February walk often produced sightings of a Great Blue Heron.

As we meandered the trail, identifying plant species and footprints of our animal friends, we were able to hear the sounds of chickadees and cardinals nearby. Early sightings of skunk cabbage and mallards gathered on the west pond were a welcome sight. We were all surprised when up in the sky, flying just above our heads, was a Great Blue Heron, just as Miss Juliane had predicted! Such excitement as the children could now add this beautiful specimen to their life list!