Last week I wrote about nesting, a Carolina wren nest in the school garden and our wood duck box. School is out today, but on Thursday last week, one of my students and I went out to check on the garden. It had become a Thursday thing.
A group of sixth graders were there. I didn’t want to alert them to the bird nest. I thought I was keeping it safe from the spirited group. Kaia and I thought it was “our little secret.”
I have to admit now that I know nothing about nature. I keep trying to learn, and this visit was a hard lesson. I had my phone with me and wanted to get a video of the little nestlings. I climbed up on the wooden box and reached my arm into the twisted vine where the nest was burrowed. “No video for you!” the mother bird quickly let me know with a few knocks to my head.
I screamed! And ran! Luckily, the group of 6th graders were long gone, so Kaia was the only witness. We sat for a while at the picnic table, so I could gather my wits again. Needless to say, the nesting ground is sacred. I will be more respectful in the future.
Reflections on the Teche 
Too bad that Kaia didn’t have a device in her hand to video! Sounds like she would have had quite a clip. I love the way you captured what happened in so few words. I had to read and reread to make sure that what I was envisioning was actually what happened.
Margaret, I think your reaction would have been mine too. I’ve noticed while walking through our preserve that mother birds are extremely protective of their nests. The osprey that built a nest high on a pole squawked loudly when people passed by and stopped to take a look at the massive nest she built. I agree with Melanie that your visit would have made a memorable video but just think that your student will now have a powerful end-of-school memory.
Wanted to tell you that I love the inspirational quote you shared today and will share it (from you) at my Spring Splendor Gallery.
So many adventures in the learning process . . . So glad that you did not have a huge audience but that you and Kala have a shared memory!
I am so glad that Kaia was there. I imagine that the image of her teacher screaming and running, then sitting with her at the picnic table to breathe, will stay with her for a long time. She sounds like a great kid – the perfect one to share this lesson with you. Nesting grounds are, indeed, sacred.
Amanda, actually Kaia reminds me of some of the kids you teach. The garden is a place of peace for her. Except when her teacher is being attacked by an angry bird.
What a great slice!
We have chickens and even after several years of hens sitting on eggs, I’m always startled when they start pecking! Nesting, regardless of species, happens on sacred grounds! 🙂
It seems I have to learn this lesson time and again when I’m out taking photos–or at least remind myself of it. With the best of intentions, it’s so easy to become an invader rather than an observer. I’m so glad you shared this slice.
Wow! I didn’t see that coming! While I’m sorry you got attacked, I have to admit I do admire that feisty mom, protecting her nest. Ruth, thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com
Thoroughly enjoyed your lesson learned!