The Monarch Class Visits Big Bald

The Monarch Class (grades 4-6) went on their first camping trip of the year in September at the Big Bald Banding Station operated by the Blue Ridge Bird Observatory (BRBO). The BRBO is “dedicated to the conservation and protection of birds in the southern Appalachians through monitoring, education, and field research.” The students had the opportunity to participate with the researchers in netting, banding, and releasing the birds for the purpose of tracking bird populations. 

Brooks, a new student at Mountain Sun, reports that camping trips are “so fun!” He said one highlight of the trip was straddling the Tennessee and North Carolina lines with “one foot in each state!” He also really enjoyed holding and releasing a bird after it had been banded. “Most people don’t ever get to see and hold birds,” said Jake. “That was so cool.” Jake also said he was inspired by the volunteers who were so knowledgeable about each of the birds. The students reported seeing 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 2 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, some Tennessee Warblers, and “tons of other birds.” Nina Rose said, “The camping experience was such a fun experience.” She also reported picking lots of wild blueberries and sharing them with her classmates.

The class was split into two with one group camping Wednesday night and the other on Thursday night. The Thursday group caught and banded a Saw Whet owl, which was certainly a highlight for many, including Addie. Rowan said that he really enjoyed laying on the ground in the crisp, clear night and looking at the stars. It is clear this trip was a memorable experience for all.