What would get educators on summer vacation out of bed at 4:30 a.m.?  Bird banding, of course!  We had the amazing opportunity to set up bird-catching nets with John Gerwin, Curator of Ornithology at the Museum. We assisted him with setting up the nets and anxiously awaited the birds! We were so excited to catch a junco! After we observed, measured, and tagged the bird, we released him back into the wild safe and sound.

We heard and observed several other birds such as the towhee, the red-breasted nuthatch and an entire family of wild turkeys. We also met Rachel and Ryan, who both work for Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. Rachel work with the animals and their habitats, as well as in education and Ryan is on the resource management team. 

After bird banding, we had a chance to visit the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Erin and Anita conquered their fear of heights and made it across the bridge and back! (Group pic on the bridge here!) We got to take in some amazing views while enjoying cooler temperatures. While up on the bridge we also saw two peregrine falcons. These birds nest in the craggy rocks on the mountain.

Our group then walked along a trail under the bridge to observe and learn about the geology of the rock formations at Grandfather Mountains and across North Carolina.  (Any pictures of the geology observations here!) Lastly, Elizabeth, a naturalist at Grandfather, led discussions on stewardship of native and invasive plants. Everyone got to practice our observation skills again, and we got to see what happens when you rehydrate very dry lichen. Check out our Instagram reel to see a time-lapse of how a dull gray lichen turned bright green with just a little bit of water!

After dinner, we hiked to Rough Ridge to take in the gorgeous 360 degree views! We’re all excited for a good night’s sleep and all the adventures tomorrow will bring!