- Trails are open 24/7 at no charge. Enjoy a Winnie-the-Pooh themed TRAIL TALES Storybook Walk.
What’s Happening: Empty Nesting
Four baby robins recently fledged from their nest beneath the porch eaves of the Collins Learning Center at Crossroads— about the same time as the start of summer vacation for kids. As school lets out, parents, caregivers, and birds alike take on the important role of nurturing and protecting their young throughout the day.
Many people are surprised to learn that many songbirds continue to care for their fledglings for two to three weeks after they leave the nest. In the case of robins, this responsibility usually falls to the male. While the female probably is beginning work on a second brood, the male stays behind to protect and feed the fledglings.
Male robins seem to recognize their young either by their calls or their proximity to the original nest. When the young beg for food, “dad” usually obliges—and consequently, fledglings can be just as large, or even larger, than the parents.
Whatever their size, fledglings are clumsy and spend much of their time on the ground or in low shrubbery. They can fly short distances, but their landings are often awkward. During this vulnerable period, the male robin stands guard, watching closely as his young learn how to forage and navigate their surroundings.
Human caregivers play a similar role. They feed, guide, and protect the children, helping them learn about the world around them. That’s one of the reasons Crossroads offers a variety of programs week.
This coming week, we have many exciting youth activities and look forward to exploring the world of nature with the “fledglings” who come to visit us.
– by Coggin Heeringa, Interpretive Naturalist
For more information, please check out our Crossroads calendar or stop by the Collins Learning Center and pick up a printed calendar. Our trails are open all day every day, free of charge, thanks to donors like you!
Crossroads at Big Creek Learning Center and Nature Preserve is located at 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay. Crossroads is a 501(c)3 organization committed to inspiring stewardship of the environment through education, research, and outdoor experiences. We welcome your support.
Upcoming Activities
