Last week, the students at Fairview PK-8 had a very special visit from a non-profit organization called HawkQuest. The group is dedicated to making education both meaningful and fun, while fostering respect for our land and the stewardship of all living things.

Amazing Birds

HawkQuest educators brought four amazing birds with them for the students to see: an owl, a falcon, a hawk, and a bald eagle. Each bird was unique and the students learned about the special features that help them survive and hunt in the wild.

The kids were instructed to remain quiet as the birds displayed their many talents. The hawk flew across the gym, grabbing meat in her talons while the owl turned its head 270 degrees. Students took turns answering questions about the 5 different kinds of flight, predators and prey, how big nests can get and the bird that Benjamin Franklin wanted as our national symbol (a wild turkey!)

Learning About Conservation

The visit from HawkQuest, arranged by Fairview teacher and bird enthusiast Laurie Downey, is part of an ongoing effort to spread awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the finality of extinction. The students learned how important it is to play their part in protecting these birds and their habitats.By keeping the environment clean and safe, they help ensure that these amazing birds can continue to live and thrive.

I want every one of you to pick up 1 piece of trash a day,” said the HawkQuest handler at the end of the presentation. “If we all did that it would have a big impact!”