Project Overview

Thanks to their Woolworths Junior Landcare Grant, 51 students at Hamilton (Gray Street) Primary School were able get hands-on learning about birds in their local environment, and how to care for them by creating their own bird habitat.

The children were involved in all phases of the project, from researching bird habitats to completing bird surveys with the 'Birds in Schools' program and planting indigenous plants. They also made nesting boxes, which proved to be one of the project highlights for the children.

"After completing the bird survey, students realised that the playground environment could really use a boost if it was to attract and sustain new birds, so they designed and planted a bird garden that encompassed everything they had learnt about local birds and their habitats," said teacher Janelle Harms.

Educational Outcomes

Through the project, students learnt about native birds, their life cycles and the habitat they require. They also learnt about the importance of indigenous plants and shelter for native wildlife, particularly in urban areas.

In addition to carrying out bird surveys, the students helped to design the garden and enjoyed planting the native trees, shrubs and grasses. As Grade 4 student, London shared: “I liked adding more natural things to the school ground.”

Environmental Outcomes

Establishing the bird garden created a habitat targeted at attracting local bird species by providing food, water and shelter. In total, 80 native plants were planted at the school.

The students also made nesting boxes with dimensions suited to the specific native birds of the area.

Conclusion

As a result of the project, students at Hamilton (Gray Street) Primary School are now much more aware of the birds that visit the school and take a greater interest in caring for the garden.

The school community was also kept informed of the creation of the bird garden through the school’s newsletter. This helped put a spotlight on the urban environment as habitat for native species, which the school hopes will inspire parents and the wider community to see their own backyards as habitat.