CALHOUN COUNTY, S.C. — A group of birdwatchers at St. Matthews K-8 school are trying to help protect a dying breed of birds. According to the Clemson Extension, bluebirds have been in decline due to loss of habitat.
“I don’t like watching animals die because it’s really sad. I like helping animals so that’s why it makes me feel really good," said student Jordan Smith.
The blue birds nest in tree cavities and over the years, these trees have been cut down. The Columbia Audubon Society donated bird boxes to St. Matthews K-8 school this spring so students could help keep them safe.
“I think it makes them more aware of what’s around them. We come out and look at the bluebird boxes and they go, ‘There’s a bird on the bluebird boxes,’ and they notice there was bird poop on the bluebird boxes so that means a baby must’ve ledged there," said Mary Dixon of the Calhoun County Conservation District.
Students have been keeping an eye on the boxes and making observations. They'll take note of the weather, and check to see if the birds laid eggs. It's a hands-on experience exposing them to the wonders of nature, and protecting an integral part of the ecosystem.
“I like to keep them involved because that way it’ll really stick and by the time they’ll go to high school and college they’ll still remember these types of things," said teacher Tamika Fordham.
The Columbia Audubon Society says it is looking to expand the blue bird project to Sandy Run starting next year.