We didn't spend a lot of time talking about squirrels this week, because we did do this challenge back in January. However, I discovered I never blogged about it! I still have some sick kids this week, so we haven't been able to go out for our outdoor time, but still managed to do some nature study.
A backyard visitor this past summer - he thought he would scavenge bird seed on our deck, but ended up hiding from us behind the planters.
N's journal pages - (L) Jan 09 (R) Nov 09
A's journal pages - (L) Jan 09 (R) Nov 09
The one on the right is also his "tough" squirrel.
Both times we did this challenge we watched and enjoyed the videos. Squirrels are amazing!!! My kids also really enjoyed the tale of Fury/Furry in the Handbook of Nature Study, and the squirrel stories in The Burgess Animal Book.
This week we also decided to learn about another mammal that has been migrating through our area this last month -- the Pronghorn Antelope! Several times we have seen small herds grazing in the neighboring farm fields. The following picture doesn't have any antelope in it (of course I didn't have my camera with me when we saw them!!), but it shows the farm fields separating our neighborhood from the rest of the Salt Lake Valley. We live in the foothills on the west side of the valley.
Initally we didn't know we were seeing the pronghorn (which are not really part of the antelope or deer families), but thought they were deer. But my dad set us straight when he was visiting a few weeks ago. And when our November issue of Ranger Rick showed up highlighting these beautiful animals we knew it was time to learn more!!
In addition to reading the article, we watched a video at Animal Planet. I also found a picture to color from a NM coloring book - the pronghorn is on page 18. I found information on tracks here, which shows and compares tacks of many Western U.S. animals. Here is a short interview with the photographer for Ranger Rick- Joe Rii & Pronghorn Project, and a few more pictures at the Utah DWR. This weekend we might head up to Antelope Island State Park so hopefully we see some of these amazing creatures (we want to see the Bison from the round up last weekend).
I would love to see the pronghorn antelope. You must share your photos if you get a chance to visit the state park and see some. :)
ReplyDeleteHope you are all feeling better soon. Thanks for posting your squirrel study, both from Jan and now.
Barb-Harmony Art Mom