Santapogue Students Study Birds with Sweetbriar

Third-grade students of Santapogue Elementary School in the West Babylon Union Free School District recently enjoyed a visit from the Sweetbriar Nature Center.

Sweetbriar provides natural science education services and encourages responsible decision-making, appreciation and respect for the wildlife and ecosystems found on Long Island. During the interactive program presented by Sue Krauss, students saw live animals such as a hawk and explored the world of birds, including birds of prey.  

The third-graders studied how birds are different from other animals and discussed characteristic differences such as feathers, migration, eggs, egg laying, nests and protective coloration, as well as the adaptations that help birds survive. The children were able to dress up in costumes as part of a discussion of specialized tools and characteristics of bird families. 

“Sweetbriar Nature Center is a wonderful program because the children truly enjoy their learning experience,” said Santapogue teacher Christina Kelskey. “It brings the world of birds to life for them in a fun and exciting way. They learn about how humans are part of the picture, and how we can all help protect our feathered friends.”

Information provided by Alison DeMaria/Syntax.