Life on the Farm: Resident Birds – Ages 5–10
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | $175 First-Time Students | $145 Returning Students
Where do birds go when winter comes? Why do some fly south while others stay right here in West Virginia?
Join us at Buckland Family Farm for a hands-on day exploring the fascinating world of resident birds, the birds that live in our region throughout the year!
Students will discover how familiar backyard birds, including blue jays, northern cardinals, chickadees, tufted titmice, and woodpeckers, survive the colder months by finding food, shelter, and protection from the weather.
We'll begin by learning to identify common West Virginia birds through their colors, markings, shapes, songs, and calls. Then we'll head out on a nature walk, find a quiet place to sit with our binoculars, and begin the process of observing them in their natural environment. We will observe and document how they move, feed, communicate, and interact with their surroundings.
Back in the classroom, students will investigate bird anatomy, examining the different shapes and purposes of beaks, wings, feathers, tails, and feet. We'll compare the foods birds eat and explore how their physical features help them survive in different habitats.
We'll also investigate what happens when temperatures drop and natural food becomes harder to find. Students will examine different seeds and learn how birds use trees, shrubs, and sheltered spaces to stay warm and protected.
One of the highlights of our day will be making a bird feeder to take home! Students will explore the importance of providing appropriate food and caring responsibly for backyard birds while creating a feeder they can use to continue observing birds throughout the winter.
Throughout the day, students will connect biology, ecology, nature study, and practical life skills through observation, experimentation, and hands-on activities.
What We'll Explore
Identify Resident Birds: Learn to recognize common West Virginia birds by their colors, markings, shapes, and sounds.
Observe Birds on the Farm: Use binoculars and observation journals to watch birds in their natural habitats.
Study Bird Anatomy: Investigate feathers, wings, beaks, tails, and feet and discover how each helps birds survive.
Explore Winter Survival: Learn how resident birds find food, stay warm, and shelter from winter weather.
Investigate Bird Foods: Examine seeds and other natural foods to discover what different birds eat.
Make a Bird Feeder: Create a simple bird feeder to take home and encourage continued nature observation.
Practice Nature Study: Record observations, ask questions, compare species, and develop an appreciation for the birds living around us.
At a Glance
Ages: 5–10
Date: Tuesday, November 17, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Location: Buckland Family Farm, Flat Top, WV
Tuition: $175 first-time students | $145 returning students
Enrollment: Limited to 6 students
Educational Focus: Ornithology, biology, ecology, animal adaptations, nature study, and environmental stewardship
Take-Home Project: Handmade bird feeder
Students should dress for outdoor activities, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots, and bring a packed lunch and water bottle. Binoculars and other observation materials will be provided.
Bird sightings and outdoor activities will depend on weather and seasonal conditions. All feeder-building activities will use age-appropriate materials and be supervised.
Register NOW!
Invoices can be paid using Hope Scholarship or via PayPal.
Request to be contacted as new themed dates are added!