Bethpage State Park Ecology

This year, Girl Scout Troop #3632 set out to give back to Bethpage State Park and its birds by enhancing nesting habitat! To achieve this goal, The Troop decided they would donate hand-built bird homes for Eastern Bluebirds...the New York State Bird! While bluebirds typically nest in tree cavities, this species is also known to use artificial homes when resources are scarce and intraspecific competition is high. Over the years, climate change and habitat loss have also contributed to the need for more resources. Although artificial homes have been known to be successful, not all nest boxes will work; durability, placement and the dimensions of the box have to be just right to be utilized by Eastern Bluebirds! With that in mind, I provided recommendations.  First, I suggested The Troop use cedar wood, a hardwearing material that will ensure their homes last many seasons in the elements. Another key feature is that the boxes need a 1.5" entrance hole; this opening is sized precisely...

Lesson Plans & Worksheets for Learning in the Garden Click the links below! Anatomy of an Insect Birds of Bethpage State Park Checklist   Brush Piles in the Garden   Colors and ABC's of the Garden   Creating Mudholes for Butterflies Activity   Creating Seed Bombs! Exploring the Garden During Winter Season Garden Ecology   Invasive Plants   Milkweed and Monarchs   Native Wildflower Coloring Pages   Symmetry in Nature Understanding Pollinators   Ways that Plants and Animals Change Their Environment