Adding more nature to distance learning

Minnesota students are currently learning from home, as the state has shuttered schools until at least May 4 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Many schools have implemented distance learning plans, but there are other supplemental materials and alternative resources parents can access that shake up the traditional way of interacting with curriculum. One such resource is nature.

For families looking to supplement an at-home science class, exploring wildlife through birdwatching is a great way to help children discover nature in a new way. And thanks to livestreams, it is an activity that can be done even while we quarantine.

Check out five round-the-clock live feeds of birds in their natural habitats below, courtesy of Explore.org and compiled by Meghan Gallagher with The 74 Million. Each feed shows a unique type of bird that can be paired with its own study.

Monday: Bald Eagles in Iowa

This bald eagle nest is located near a trout hatchery in Decorah, Iowa. There are three adorable baby eagles that can be seen with their parents.

Tuesday: Tropical Birds in Panama

These feasting tropical birds are located on the grounds of the Canopy Lodge in El Valle de Anton, Panama.

Wednesday: Spoonbills in Florida

St. Augustine’s Alligator Farm Zoological Park is not only a home for alligators. Roseate spoonbills and other wading birds dwell here as well.

Thursday: Cranes in Africa

From long-legged cranes to herons, this cam will also show how these birds coexist with other wildlife such as hippos and giraffes.

Friday: Hummingbirds in California

Viewers can see hummingbirds that frequent a feeder in La Verne, California and can also view a nest the size of half a golf ball that has been a home to female hummingbirds and their offspring over the years. The current resident, Bella, has laid two eggs and will be incubating them for the next 15 to 18 days. Nearby Bella’s nest, there is a family with two baby hummingbirds that the livestream will also show.