A Morning with a Chinese Home School Group at the Health Valley Trail, St. Jacobs, ON

 20 March, 2026

     I should have been a little more observant when I took this picture. Theodore is barely visible on the back row (see his orange hat). Next time we'll have him move forward a little.

     Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) were oblivious to our presence.

     The ranks of the stay-at-home winter birds have been swelled by migrants passing through on their way farther north and it was rare that we did not hear their familiar honking call.

     This was our first time together at this location, so I arrived early and stood by the road so that people would know where to park. A couple of Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura) went about their business on a nearby fence.

     An American Robin (Turdus migratorius) perched in a tree, serenading us from time to time. 

     What could be better than to go exploring in the woods?

     You will notice that the children are carrying their water bottles. You will never see plastic with these environmentally conscientious youngsters, all with responsible parents.

     Male Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis) were in full voice in their quest to attract a female.

     A tree is a magnet for curious, adventuresome children, and many gathered to enjoy the moment.

     Red-winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) were singing incessantly, as males recently arrived from the south, guarded their newly established territory in anticipation of females returning at any time.

     The children learn a good deal on these excursions and many of them ask probing questions. Even the smallest among them find things that stimulate their curiosity and bring them to me to identify. Rarely are they content with mere identification, but ask questions about what they have found or observed.

     As much as acquiring knowledge, however, it is important that the kids have fun.

     And they always do. The bigger children are always there to help the littler ones, and it is a joy to see them interact. 

     On the way back to the parking lots we passed a Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) patiently working a shallow pond, secluded from the rapid flow of the river, swollen by snow melt.

     What a handsome fellow he is, resplendent in full nuptial attire.

     It was a fitting end to a very pleasant morning.

     And we'll do it all again!