birds

American Robin Free Printables, Resources and Crafts

March 15, 2026 | 11 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I rounded up some fun American Robin free printables, resources, and crafts to kick off a spring unit study. Also, look at my page Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests for more ideas and North American Robin unit study.

This bird is one of the most familiar birds in North America, and many people think of it as the bird that announces the arrival of spring.

The American Robin is easy to recognize. It has a bright orange-red breast.

Also, you recognize it by a dark gray or brown back, yellow beak and a white ring around its eye. Both males and females look similar, but males usually have brighter colors.

The American Robin lives almost everywhere in North America, from Canada all the way down to Mexico.

They are comfortable living near people, which is why you often see them hopping around lawns and gardens.

BOOKS ABOUT AMERICAN ROBINS FOR KIDS

Next, look at these books about robins for kids.

11 Fun Resources and Books to Learn About North American Robin Birds

Studying about North American Robin birds is fun to do anytime of the year with all ages. You'll love adding one ore more of these resources to your study.

1. All About Robins

A robin is one of the most familiar and beloved of all birds that are found throughout North America. You may see robins running across lawns or going after earthworms in your yard or a park. You can also find robins by listening for their clear, melodic singing.There are many facts about robins that most people don’t know. If your children have ever wondered about robins and how they grow from chicks to adult birds, this book is for them. The book contains dozens of beautiful photos of robins from the time they first hatch, to when their mother feeds them, until they take their first flight. It also includes many little-known facts that are sure to captivate young naturalists.

2. Model Backyard Birds Toys

Set of bird figurine toys, which contains 7 different small plastic birds. The weight of bird figure toy is 96G / 0.2LB. The set of small plastic bird contains 7 pieces of toy birds, such as robin, bluebird, oriole, woodpecker, etc. Please refer to the picture for the actual size and color.

3. Big Book of Birds

The book draws in children and parents alike with captivating information about and charming illustrations of hummingbirds, peacocks, flamingos, bald eagles, secretary birds, puffins, red-crowned cranes, and more. The book also invites young bird-watchers to protect birds where they live and make their gardens bird-friendly. The text is chatty, funny, and full of remarkable facts.

4. A Nest Full of Eggs (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 1)

Named a Best Children's Science Book of the Year by Science Books & Films, this picture book shows how the birds develop inside their eggs during the spring; how they mature into fledglings in the summer; how they learn to fly in the fall; and how they leave for warmer climates in winter—only to return when spring comes around again.

5. BACKYARD BIRDSONG GUIDE EASTERN AND CENT (cl) (Cornell Lab of Ornithology)

Suitable for beginning bird watchers, Backyard Birdsongs is an interactive handbook of birds and their songs. With a touch-button electronic module that contains common vocalizations of seventy-five species from across eastern and central North America, this volume offers a truly sensory way to identify and get to know local birds. Crisply detailed, scientifically accurate illustrations accompany each entry, and up-to-date range maps provide clear geographical reference points. With an introduction that will inspire readers to look out their windows and venture into the field, this unique book gives people of all ages an exciting entryway into the subtle art of using birdsong to identify birds.

6. A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home (Nest for Celeste, 1)

Beautifully illustrated with hundreds of black-and-white drawings, A Nest for Celeste is a short novel that tells the story a mouse living in the 1800s and his friendship with John James Audubon’s young apprentice. While enjoying this sweet amd appealing story, young readers will also learn about nineteenth-century plantation life and the famous naturalist who was known for his paintings of birds and American wildlife.

7. An Egg Is Quiet: (Picture Book, Kids Book about Eggs)

This stunningly beautiful and wonderfully informative book from award-winning artist Sylvia Long and author Dianna Hutts Aston makes for a fascinating introduction to the vast and amazing world of eggs. Featuring poetic text and an elegant design, this acclaimed book teaches children countless interesting facts about eggs. Full of wit and charm, An Egg Is Quiet will at once spark the imagination and cultivate a love of science.

8. Robins!: How They Grow Up

Robins are the most familiar and beloved of all birds, found throughout North America and celebrated as one of the first signs of spring. But there's a lot about them that most people don’t know! In this visually stunning picture book that features comic-book panels combined with painterly illustrations, Eileen Christelow tells the story of two young robins’ first year, and reveals plenty of little-known facts that are sure to captivate young naturalists. Narrated with humor and filled with kid-pleasing details, this fascinating account of how robins grow up includes an Author’s Note, Glossary, More About Robins, and Sources.

9. Rob the Robin: A Tale of a Feathered Friend

Join Rob the Robin on his adventure as he discovers first the difficulty of surviving a long winter and then the wonders of spring. Written as an early reader, this tale is sure to delight children with captivating photography and pictures that visually tell the story in such a way that will interest both readers and non-readers alike.

10. The American Robin

In this book, Roland Wauer offers a complete natural history of the American Robin for a popular audience. Combining his own observations as a field naturalist with data gleaned from the scientific literature, he described the American Robin from every angle - appearance and biology, distribution, behavior, life cycle, and enemies and threats. In addition, he explores the legends and lore surrounding robins ("Whoever kills a robin redbreast will never have good luck were they to live a thousand years") and offers suggestions for attracting robins to your yard with favorite food, water, landscape plantings, and nesting places.

11. American Robin Plush Authentic Bird Sound

Kids and adults love this bird stuffed animal and are captivated by its realistic sound. They are also great baby toys and used as sensory toys. With one squeeze, Audubon birds produce beautifully authentic bird calls provided by the Cornell lab of Ornithology’s bird recording archives.

AMERICAN ROBIN UNIT STUDY IDEAS

We pulled out the chalk pastels today, used our Chalk Pastel reference tutorial book that we love.

This curriculum was created by a homeschool mom and Tiny decided to sketch and do a chalk pastel of the American Robin.

Sketch of the American Robin @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

American Robin Chalk Pastel @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Robins are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals.

THE AMERICAN ROBIN – FIRST SIGN OF SPRING

Like his mom, Tiny is not comfortable with art. However, with some coaxing to change the pace of our day, he pulled out the chalk pastels.

I have tried my best through the years to be sure each son views art as enrichment and pleasure.

North American Red Robin Free Lapbook @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

The emphasis has always been on the pleasure of art and not so much the product.

However, I think he did quite well with this American Robin. Of course, he had to sketch it first so it would be “perfect”.

AMERICAN ROBIN FREE PRINTABLES, RESOURCES AND CRAFTS

I tried to talk him out of it and to use the pastels to free flow, but he really liked the way it came out and more importantly, we enjoyed a change in pace.

We read some online about American Robins and enjoyed listening to the sound of them too. We’ll be looking out to see one or two this year also.

I gathered up some free and fun resources to help round out a unit study or quick study.

Free Printables & Reference

American Robin lapbook
FAQ
American Robin 3 page information
Coloring Page

American Robin Facts for Kids
6 page pdf. along with helpful map, habitat and facts.
Robin bird house plans for a nest shelf
Several American Robin Coloring Pages

Bird Feather Types
Free printable critical reading passage with answers.
How to identify a robin’s nest

50 page pdf download coloring pages of different birds, including the American Robin
Grab my free printables for a bird notebook

PHOTOS, CRAFTS AND YOUTUBE

Footprint American Robin. Isn’t that the cutest thing ever? What a perfect spring keepsake!
YouTubeMamma bird feeding her young video. There is a cool scene in this video. It is must watch, I but don’t like the music. (so distracting)
American Robin Mini-Documentary YouTube
Eggs hatching photos

Paper craft robin
American Robin at a Glance

I hope you can use some of these free and fun resources to squeeze in a few days of learning about spring and the American Red Robin.

You’ll love these other crafts and ideas:

American Robin Free Printables, Resources and Crafts @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Don’t forget to follow BOTH of my Pinterest accounts for more AWESOME pins.

Visit Tina Robertson’s profile on Pinterest.

Cool Facts About Blue Jays & Beautiful Blue Jay Craft

January 31, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Read these cool facts about blue jays while you create a beautiful Blue Jay craft to study the colorings and markings of this backyard bird. Also, look at my page Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests for more bird activities.

Blue jays are one of the most recognizable birds in North America, known for their bright blue feathers, loud calls, and curious personalities.

Creating a blue jay paper plate craft is a wonderful way to introduce children to bird study while encouraging creativity, observation skills, and awareness of nature.

Cool Facts About Blue Jays & Beautiful Blue Jay Craft

This activity pairs especially well with birdwatching, journaling, and simple science lessons for homeschoolers. It can be as simple as observing them in your backyard or you can fill in with facts, graphing, reading, and other activities to create a full week of bird study for any age.

The blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) is a member of the crow family, which helps explain its intelligence and complex behavior.

Blue jays are commonly found in forests, neighborhoods, and parks across eastern and central North America. Their striking blue coloring, white chest, and black markings make them easy to spot, even for beginner birdwatchers.

BOOKS ABOUT BLUE JAYS FOR KIDS

Next, add some of these books to your home library.

5 Books & Resources For Kids Who Love to Learn About Blue Jays

Blue Jays are a fun bird to learn about anytime of the year and turn it into a full unit study with toms of these resources.

The Adventures of Sammy Jay

Sammy Jay thinks he's a very fine gentleman and is proud of his handsome blue coat and high cap. But Sammy often does things he shouldn't do — like stealing. Nobody likes to be told he's a thief — especially Sammy Jay! Much of the time, he just struts around, trying to look important when he thinks someone is looking at him. Filled with pranks and rivalries, this delightful tale — enhanced with Harrison Cady's charming illustrations — combines humorous animal escapades with gentle lessons about wildlife and nature.

The Tale of Jasper Jay

Some of the feathered folk in Pleasant Valley said that old Mr. Crow was the noisiest person in the neighborhood. But they must have forgotten all about Mr. Crow's knavish cousin, Jasper Jay. And it was not only in summer, either, that Jasper's shrieks and laughter woke the echoes. Since it was his habit to spend his winters right there in Farmer Green's young pines, near the foot of Blue Mountain, on many a cold morning Jasper's ear-splitting "Jay! jay!" rang out on the frosty air.

Saving Jemima: Life and Love with a Hard-Luck Jay

When Jemima, a young orphaned blue jay, is brought to wildlife rehabilitator Julie Zickefoose, she is a virtually tailless, palm-sized bundle of gray-blue fluff. But she is starved and very sick. Julie’s constant care brings her around, and as Jemima is raised for eventual release, she takes over the house and the rest of the author's summer. Shortly after release, Jemima turns up with a deadly disease. But medicating a free-flying wild bird is a challenge. When the PBS show Nature expresses interest in filming Jemima, Julie must train her to behave on camera, as the bird gets ever wilder. Jemima bonds with a wild jay, stretching her ties with the family. Throughout, Julie grapples with the fallout of Jemima’s illness, studies molt and migration, and does her best to keep Jemima strong and wild. She falls hard for this engaging, feisty and funny bird, a creative muse and source of strength through the author’s own heartbreaking changes. Emotional and honest, Saving Jemima is a universal story of the communion between a wild creature and the human chosen to raise it.

The Blue Jay–120 Piece Puzzle Fun

THE HARDEST CHALLENGE - With hints on the back that won't take away from the fun of the game by making it too difficult, the Fruit And Birds series will provide hours of screen-free entertainment and mental relaxation for the whole family, and is sure to become a permanent decoration in your home.

Birds Blue Jay Plush with Authentic Bird Sound

With one squeeze, Audubon birds produce beautifully authentic bird calls provided by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s bird recording archives.

Next, here are some fun facts about blue jays.

5 COOL FACTS ABOUT BLUE JAYS

Blue jays are about 9–12 inches long, with a wing span of 13 to 17 inches.
They have strong black bills designed for cracking nuts and seeds.
Blue jays are omnivores and eat acorns, seeds, berries, insects, and even small frogs.
Despite their flashy color, blue jays are not actually blue because of pigment. Instead, their feathers reflect light in a way that makes them appear blue, a phenomenon called structural coloration. Blue jays help forests grow by burying acorns, many of which are never retrieved and later sprout into oak trees.
They are very vocal and use a wide range of calls to communicate danger or defend territory. They are known for mimicking hawks’ calls to scare away other birds.

Also, here are some fun bird watching activities.

BIRD WATCHING ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Sit quietly near trees or a bird feeder and listen for loud “jay jay” calls.
Free Bird Journal – Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages)
Hands-On Nature Study: Bird Color Bar Graphing Activity
The Colorful Blue Jays Winter Food | Make Fun Seed Slime
Create another bird-themed craft while you learn about the history of Lewis & Clark’s exploration by painting a beautiful Lewis Woodpecker in Beautiful Watercolor & Birds Lewis and Clark Discovered.
Use binoculars or a homemade paper tube “bird scope.”
Compare the real bird to the paper plate craft and note similarities.
If you don’t see a blue jay right away, play recordings of blue jay calls so children can learn to recognize them by sound.
Try this B is for Bird Craft | Free Preschool Bluebird Study.
Compare blue jays to other birds in the corvid family, like crows and ravens.
Write a short story from the perspective of a blue jay hiding acorns.
Map showing where blue jays live in North America.

HOW TO ATTRACT BLUE JAYS

Offer peanuts (unsalted and in the shell if possible)
Provide fresh water in a shallow birdbath
Leave trees and shrubs for shelter
Avoid pesticides that harm the insects birds rely on for food

By pairing your blue jay paper plate craft with real-world observation and discussion, you’re creating a rich, memorable learning experience that blends art, science, and outdoor exploration.

Finally, make this adorable blue jay craft.

BEAUTIFUL BLUE JAY CRAFT

Crafting a paper plate blue jay is an easy way to teach your child about their distinctive markings. As children paint or color the plate blue, add paper wings, or glue on a crest, you can talk about the bird’s body parts and their purposes.

Encourage kids to notice details such as the pointed crest on the head or the dark necklace-like marking around the neck.

Your child can paint or color the plates, but I thought this was a great opportunity to try out a new medium on an old, tried and true canvas- the paper plate.

You will need:

2 Paper plates
Chalk pastel
Pencil
Scissors

You will use 2 paper plates for this craft. Cut the first one in half to create the body of your blue jay.

On the second paper plate, draw a wing, tail, and head with the pencil. Remember to give the head the blue jay its identifying crest, or tuft of feathers. I also used the ruffled edge of the plate for the tail for more texture.

Cut each piece out.

Use a black chalk to draw the black markings on the jay’s face and beak.

Color in the blue areas of the head.

Then color in the tail and back of the body, smudge with your finger to fill it in, and give softer edges.

Add the black details on the body, wing, and tail.

From a scrap of plate, cut out little bird feet and color them black with chalk.

Tape or glue each piece into place.

Lewis Woodpecker in Beautiful Watercolor & Birds Lewis and Clark Discovered

January 25, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We are diving into some of the beautiful birds Lewis and Clark discovered and introduced to Western science. Also, look at my page Lewis and Clark Fun Homeschool Unit Study and Lapbook for more ideas.

Too, look at my page Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests.

Watercolor painting is a wonderful way to slow down and truly observe the details of the natural world.

As you paint Lewis’s Woodpecker, you are not just creating art, you are connecting with a fascinating moment in American history, scientific discovery, and wildlife observation.

Lewis Woodpecker in Beautiful Watercolor & Birds Lewis and Clark Discovered

This beautiful bird carries the name of explorer Meriwether Lewis, a reminder that art, science, and exploration have intertwined since long before us.

Lewis’s Woodpecker is one of the most unusual-looking woodpeckers in North America. Unlike most woodpeckers with their bold black-and-white patterns, this bird displays a dark greenish-black back, soft pinkish-red belly, gray collar, and a deep red face.

This beautiful coloring makes it an ideal subject for watercolor, where soft blends and layered washes can capture its stunning sheen.

BOOKS ABOUT LEWIS AND CLARK’S JOURNEY

First, look at these books about the journey of Lewis and Clark to add to your day.

14 Lewis and Clark | Sacagawea Exploration Unit Study Resources

Lewis and Clark is one of the most significant periods in American history and you can spend weeks exploring the lands and people west of the Mississippi with these fun books and resources.

How We Crossed The West: The Adventures Of Lewis And Clark

Appealing art and descriptive text bring Lewis and Clark alive for young adventurers. Carefully chosen text from Lewis and Clark's actual journals opens a fascinating window into this country's exciting history.

National Geographic Readers: Sacagawea

Explore one of the most recognized figures in American history with this biography of Sacagawea. Kids will learn about her crucial role in the Lewis and Clark expedition and her influential legacy. The level 3 text provides accessible, yet wide-ranging, information for independent readers.

Of Courage Undaunted: Across the Continent with Lewis & Clark

Commissioned in 1803 by President Thomas Jefferson to explore and open up this vast territory, Lewis and Clark felt it was the realization of a lifelong dream. Against the hardships of the wilderness, possible attack by hostile Indians, sudden blizzards and terrifying natural obstacles, these two men led the Corps of Discovery ably and nobly to complete their mission. Their Corps included American Indians from the Sioux, Mandan, Shoshone, Clatsop and Chopunnish tribes. Sacajawea, the only woman on the trip, was a Shoshone woman who contributed invaluable service as interpreter and guide. Daugherty's evocative sepia and black ink illustrations depict individuals of humor, vitality, passion, and strength.

Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West

From the New York Times bestselling author the definitive book on Lewis and Clark’s exploration of the Louisiana Purchase, the most momentous expedition in American history and one of the great adventure stories of all time.

The Truth About Sacajawea (Lewis & Clark Expedition)

The only book ever written that tells the eyewitness truth about this famous teenage Indian mother who was indispensable to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

The Journals of Lewis and Clark: 1805: Volume II

On May 14, 1804, the Corps of Discovery set out from Camp Dubois, Illinois, heading westward under the command of Captain Meriwether Lewis and his Second Lieutenant, William Clark. While Lewis led the group in terms of rank, the two men became de facto equals, giving their names jointly to a journey that would shape the future of the fledgling United States — the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This book presents journal entries taken directly from the expedition.

Sacagawea: American Pathfinder

Describes how Sacagawea found adventure guiding Lewis and Clark to the Oregon coast.

Along the Trail with Lewis and Clark (Third Edition): A Guide to the Trail Today

Take Your Own Journey through History on the Lewis & Clark Trail! Follow the journey of the Corps of Discovery from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello through the Midwest and the Rockies, to the Pacific Ocean and back with this detailed chronicle of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. This third edition of the classic guidebook features accessible text that combines the historical sites and color maps that merge the past and present in a user-friendly and entertaining way.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition (Graphic History)

In this epic graphic novel, follow the dramatic story of the Lewis and Clark expedition. In 1804, these two explorers, along with their "Corps of Discovery," traversed the unmapped American West, leading to scientific discoveries, interactions with Native nations, and route to the Pacific Ocean. Dramatic illustrations and fast-paced text provide a "you-are-there" experience. With extensive back matter, including a bibliography, extended reading list, glossary, and further Internet sources, young readers will gobble up this action-packed comic book about one of history's most compelling moments.

The Oregon Trail: The Journey Across the Country From Lewis and Clark to the Transcontinental Railroad With 25 Projects

In The Oregon Trail: The Journey Across the Country from Lewis and Clark to the Transcontinental Railroad, readers ages 9 to 12 can delve into the explorations of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and other explorers. They can learn about the more than half a million people who followed during the nineteenth century. What challenges did these pioneers face on the 2,170-mile journey? How were Native American tribes and nations affected by this mass migration? Primary sources allow readers to feel like a part of the Oregon Trail experience while biographical sidebars will introduce the compelling people who were part of this time in U.S. history. Investigative, hands-on projects and critical thinking activities such as writing a treaty and researching artistic impressions of the Oregon Trail invite readers to further their understanding of life on the trail, early towns and forts, and the Transcontinental Railroad that followed the wagons into new lands and territories that would eventually become states.

Seaman's Journal

A trade paperback edition of the award-winning tale of the journey of Lewis and Clark. When Seaman, a Newfoundland dog, met his new master in August of 1803, he didn't know that he would spend the next three years on an adventure of more than 8,000 miles to the Pacific Ocean and back. Seaman's Journal is based on actual entries in Meriwether Lewis s journal describing Seaman, and it presents an account of the Lewis and Clark expedition as seen from the viewpoint of Lewis s dog. Join Seaman before the trip as preparations take place. Meet the Native American guides and friends they encountered along the way. And read of Seaman s love for Sacajawea, the Shoshone woman whose husband acted as interpreter and guide. Ages 5-8.

The Lewis & Clark Expedition: Join the Corps of Discovery to Explore Uncharted Territory

Describes the expedition led by Lewis and Clark to explore the unknown western regions of America at the beginning of the nineteenth century.

Lewis and Clark for Kids: Their Journey of Discovery with 21 Activities

Following Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s Corps of Discovery as they navigate the muddy Missouri River and begin a great adventure, this activity book is set against the background of the vast North American continent. It takes children from President Jefferson’s vision of an exploratory mission across a continent full of unique plants and animals through their dangerous and challenging journey into the unknown to the expedition’s triumphant return to the frontier town of St. Louis. Twenty-one activities bring to life the Native American tribes they encountered, the plants and animals they discovered, and the camping and navigating techniques they used. A glossary of terms and listings of Lewis and Clark sites, museums, and related websites round out this comprehensive activity book.

It's Her Story Sacajawea A Graphic Novel

Sacajawea was a brilliant, multilingual Shoshone girl who was torn from her home at a young age. In 1804, she set out with the Lewis and Clark Expedition, acting as an interpreter and guide across hundreds of miles of unmapped land to reach the Pacific Ocean. Almost 200 years later, she became the first Indigenous woman to appear on a US coin. This is her story.

Even more surprising than its coloring is its behavior. Lewis’s Woodpecker often catches insects in midair, flying more like a swallow than a typical woodpecker

ABOUT LEWIS’S WOODPECKER BIRD

Instead of constantly drilling into trees, they frequently perch on exposed branches, scanning the air for insects before swooping down to catch them. It also feeds on berries, nuts, and acorns, storing food in tree crevices for later use.

These birds prefer open woodlands, especially areas with dead trees, which provide nesting sites.

As the Corps of Discovery traveled westward across unfamiliar territory, they carefully recorded the plants and animals they encountered. Lewis’s Woodpecker was first documented during the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806).

Meriwether Lewis was particularly detailed and diligent with his notes, describing new species with detail even though he had no formal training as a naturalist.

This woodpecker was later named in his honor, preserving his contribution to early American natural history.

But there is much more to it than just art, you can expand upon your study and dive into multiple subjects.

Art: Study color blending, feather texture, and light reflection through watercolor techniques.
Science: Observe bird anatomy, behavior, habitat, and diet.
History: Explore how early explorers documented wildlife and why their journals mattered.
Geography: Locate where Lewis’s Woodpecker lives today and trace the expedition’s route on a map.

Lewis’s Woodpecker was just one of many birds documented during the expedition. In fact, the explorers recorded over 100 animal species, including several birds previously unknown to science at the time.

10 MORE BIRDS LEWIS AND CLARK DISCOVERED

Studying these birds alongside your watercolor project helps place your art in a larger historical and scientific context. Choose as many as you like to recreate in watercolor to go along with Lewis’s Woodpecker.

Western Kingbird- This energetic flycatcher with a yellow belly and gray head was recorded in the open areas of the West.

Clark’s Nutcracker- Named for William Clark, this gray-and-black bird is important to forest ecosystems because they help in spreading pine seeds. Their relationship with whitebark pine trees is a great example of mutual dependence in nature.

Western Meadowlark- Famous for its beautiful song and bright yellow chest, this bird was well described by Lewis and Clark during their journey through the plains.

White-crowned Sparrow- This small but distinctive bird with bold head stripes was another important addition to early American bird records.

Western Tanager- With its bright red face and yellow body, the Western Tanager stands out as vividly as Lewis’s Woodpecker and makes an excellent subject for future art studies.

Mountain Bluebird- This vivid blue bird was noted during the expedition as the explorers moved into the Rocky Mountains. Its bright coloring makes it stand out in journals and makes it a beautiful subject for art or nature study.

Clark’s Nightingale– Despite its name, this bird was not a true nightingale. Early explorers often used familiar European bird names to describe unfamiliar North American species. Today, Clark’s Nightingale is known as the Western Scrub-Jay.

Western Grebe- This elegant waterbird with a long neck and striking red eyes was documented as the expedition encountered western lakes and waterways.

Long-billed Curlew- Recognized by its very long, curved bill, this shorebird was described by the explorers as they crossed open plains and wetlands.

Black-billed Magpie- A highly intelligent bird with bold black-and-white markings and a long tail, the magpie was often mentioned because of its curiosity and bold behavior around camps.

MORE WAYS TO DISCOVER WITH LEWIS AND CLARK

LEWIS WOODPECKER WATERCOLOR TUTORIAL

Lewis’s Woodpecker reminds us that discovery is not just about traveling to new places, it’s about paying attention to what is right around you.

Through watercolor, you practice the same careful observation that early naturalists relied on. Each brushstroke becomes a quiet exploration of color, history, and the beauty of God’s creation.

You will need:

Watercolor Paper
Paintbrushes
Sharpened pencil
Fine line black pen
Water

Using a sharpened pencil, sketch out the general shape of the woodpecker’s head and body, don’t worry about drawing it exactly, we just want to figure out our proportions.

Once you have the rough shape and size set you can add more curve and detail for the head, wings, tail, etc.

Erase the lines until they are light and can barely be seen, this faint outline will help you form your bird with watercolor.

Start with the lightest watercolor, this would be around the neck, a very light grey collar.

Now paint the green areas, with a light wash, you can darken with additional layers later.

You can wait for your painting to dry between colors or use a blow dryer to make it go faster.

Once the paint has dried to the touch, carefully brush the pinkish-red on the face and belly.

Once the red has dried, paint in a black beak.

And feet.

Go back over the green areas to darken, switching between at least 2 shades to give it more depth, use darker green to help outline the wings, tail, and give the appearance of feathers.

Continue to let dry and layer until you are satisfied with the dark green.

Let the bird dry and “paint” all the area around it with clean water, then add light blue paint and smooth it around to create a sky. The water helps it stay light and loose.

Once the sky is dry, paint on a limb for your bird, including two tones for the wood and leaves.

Fun Facts About Peregrine Falcons & How To Paint Them In Watercolor

July 24, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have some fun facts about peregrine falcons for you to use in your unit study. Also, grab my Peregrine Falcon Unit Study and Lapbook for more ideas.

The peregrine falcon is one of the most fascinating birds of prey, known for its incredible speed, keen eyesight, and presence around the world.

We are going to explore the life, behavior, and habitat of peregrine falcons while incorporating creative learning through watercolor painting.

Fun Facts About Peregrine Falcons & How To Paint Them In Watercolor

Ideal for upper elementary through high school homeschoolers, this study can be adapted to various learning levels. Peregrines are incredibly adaptable.

They live in mountains, coastal cliffs, deserts, and even urban areas; you will find them on every continent except Antarctica.

In cities, they often nest on tall buildings or bridges, using them like cliffs. This adaptability helped them make a remarkable comeback after being endangered in the mid-20th century due to pesticide use (especially DDT).

For fun and science exploration we are going to do a simple watercolor painting of a Peregrine Falcon.

I am not claiming to be a watercolor expert, I am a mom who had to learn some things herself to teach my own child. Plus, it’s just downright fun for me as well!

BOOKS ABOUT BIRDS OF PREY

Next look at these books about birds of prey.

Bird Of Prey and Peregrine Falcon Resources

Add these books and resources to your unit study about bird of prey or peregrine falcons.

My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George

Great book for any boy or girl who wants to live outdoor and experience nature.

The Hawk of the Castle: A Story of Medieval Falconry

Join a young girl and her father, the falconer at a medieval castle, as they experience the joys of taking a goshawk out for a training flight

Peregrine Spring: A Master Falconer's Extraordinary Life with Birds of Prey

Peregrine Spring, Nancy Cowan’s memoir of her thirty years living intimately with raptors, gives us a new perspective on the relationship between humans and the natural world. Cowan shares her experiences running a world-famous falconry school, and the lessons she's learned from her birds.

Call of the Osprey (Scientists in the Field)

This meticulously researched and photographed account follows three University of Montana scientists and their interdisciplinary work with osprey: fish-catching birds with gigantic nests and a family that functions with teamwork and cooperation.

Talons: North American Birds of Prey (Pocket Nature Guides)

Talons: North American Birds of Prey by M. Miller & C. Nelson, present color illustrations along with names, size, range, & description of these predators.

Thunder Birds: Nature’s Flying Predators

Acclaimed naturalist and illustrator Jim Arnosky helps birds and imaginations take glorious flight in this breathtaking nonfiction picture book with six giant gatefolds.Arnosky will draw out kids'
inner explorer as he explains why there are no feathers on a vulture's head, which bird is the deep-diving champ, what makes an owls's wings perfectly silent in flight, and much more.

100 Facts Birds of Prey

Great book for beginners.

But before that let me give you some facts and fantastic activities to fill out this mini unit and help your child soar through it.

7 FUN FACTS ABOUT PEREGRINE FALCONS

Peregrine falcons mate for life. Both peregrine parents care for the chicks, but the female is larger and does most of the brooding. The male (called a tiercel) is smaller and faster, making him the better hunter during nesting season.
The word “peregrine” means “wanderer” which is fitting, since some migrate thousands of miles.
Falconry is the practice of training birds of prey and often uses peregrines due to their speed and intelligence.
Peregrine falcons are aerodynamic masters. When diving to catch prey, their wings tuck tight to their bodies, reducing drag and increasing speed. Their top recorded dive speed is 242 mph, faster than a Formula One car or a skydiver.
A peregrine’s eyesight is about 8 times better than a human’s. They can spot a pigeon from over a mile away. Their eyes are protected by a nictitating membrane, a third eyelid that acts like goggles while diving at high speed.
Peregrines have been used in falconry for over 3,000 years, even ancient Egyptian pharaohs trained them. In WWII, trained peregrines were used in the UK to intercept enemy carrier pigeons.
Adults have a blue-gray back, barred underparts, and a dark head with that famous “moustache” mark. Chicks and juveniles are browner and have streaky, rather than barred, chests to help them blend into their surroundings.

Next, look at more peregrine falcon activities and resources.

PEREGRINE FALCONS ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES

My Side of The Mountain is a great read aloud or independent reading book that talks about falconry.
Don’t forget to grab my Peregrine Falcon Unit Study and Lapbook for an in depth look at these beautiful and fierce birds of prey.
Print a world map and mark places peregrine falcons are found. Include- Urban nesting sites (like New York City skyscrapers), cliffs in the Grand Canyon, coastal regions in Alaska or the British Isles.
Learn How to make paper mache PEREGRINE FALCON for a beautiful display.
Another fun read is Falcon Vs Hawk Who Would Win?
Get step by step directions for How to Draw a Peregrine Falcon.
Watch this quick video Here’s Why Peregrine Falcons Are the Top Guns of the Sky.

For a STEM challenge- Build a paper glider that mimics a falcon’s wing shape. Test how wing design affects speed and dive angle.

PEREGRINE FALCON WATERCOLOR

As they paint their Peregrine falcon have your child focus on the following features:

A harp beak with a special “tomial tooth” for killing prey.
Long, pointed wings for fast flying.
Large eyes that can spot prey from over a mile away.
Dark “moustache” marks help reduce sun glare.

You will need:

Watercolor paper
Sharpened pencil
Watercolors
Small paintbrushes
Permanent black marker
Water
Inspiration photo or figure

Begin by drawing out a loose outline of your peregrine inspiration. I grabbed this Peregrine Falcon Figurine I had because I loved the pose but there are many wonderful pictures online or in books you can choose to use as a model.

Once you are happy with it, erase the lines until you can just barely see them so that they don’t show through your watercolor.

Paint the inside of your outline with just plain water, once it is wet begin adding the lightest color and spreading it around the image inside the lines.

Allow to dry and then use a small brush to dab darker spots all over the falcons chest and wings.

Next, you can move on to the yellow parts like the beak and claws as they are not touching the still wet parts.

Now paint a light wash of blue all around your falcon to make it stand out. You can paint directly onto the dry paper or use a wet on wet technique by painting it first with plain water and then a light wash of color.

Use a black marker to add more details like eyes

And claws..

To extend this lesson you can also have your child label the different features of the Peregrine Falcon, here is a great Falcon (Peregrine) fact page with a simple labeled anatomy image.

How To Make A Shoebox Toucan Habitat Diorama With Waterfall

June 4, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today we are creating a toucan habitat diorama. Also, look at my page Rain Forest – Amazon, Rain Forest – Animals of the Amazon and Rainforest Activities for Kids or more ideas, crafts and activities.

Our diorama resembles the rainforest canopies of Central and South America where the toucan make their home.

High above the ground, where the covering is lush and thick, Toucans build their nests.

They build them in hollowed out tree cavities sleeping in groups of 5 or 6.

How To Make A Shoebox Toucan Habitat Diorama With Waterfall

They very rarely fly down to the forest floor.

Also, they are prey for forest eagles, hawks, owls, boas, and jaguars.

We are creating a tropical rainforest paradise that is perfect for a bright toucan to hide out in.

It is complete with a unique waterfall just like you might find in the Lacandon Jungle, Mexico or Kaieteur Falls in the Amazon.

This is a pretty safe hot glue craft even for younger kids as they only have to squeeze the glue gun to create their piece and do not touch the glue until it’s completely cooled.

They may just need a little bit of help attaching the waterfall.

What better way to learn about this fascinating and beautiful bird than to study its habitat with a unique rainforest diorama.

5 Fun Facts About Toucans

Toucans use their massive beaks to attract mates, intimidate predators, to reach food that would otherwise be out of reach, and to control their body temperature by regulating blood flow through it.
Vocabulary alert- They are ‘monomorphic’ which means that there is no color difference in males and females, both are equally colorful.
Toucans range in size from the toco toucan (Ramphastos toco) that can be up to 24” down to the tawny-tufted toucanet (Selenidera nattereri) at just 12.5”.
Toucans hang out in groups of 3 to 12, but also as large as groups of 20.
They are very important to the biome of the rainforest. They eat a variety of native fruits and spread the seeds via their droppings, which helps keep the plants growing and maintains the forest’s diversity.

Next, add a few more ideas to bring your toucan habitat diorama to life.

Toucan Habitat Resources

Toucans! My Incredible World Picture Book
If you want another toucan activity that is especially great for younger kids make these. Wildlife in the Amazon Rainforest – Create Fun Macaw and Toucan Crafts
Watch All About Toucans to see the big beaked beauties in action.
You can include toucans or any rainforest creature in this unique and easy Rainforest Triorama with kids project

Finally, look at how to make this fun toucan shoebox diorama.

How To Make A Shoebox Toucan Habitat Diorama With Waterfall

You will need:

Glue gun/sticks
Box/shoebox
Greenery
Plastic toucan figure
Green and blue craft paint
Rocks and sticks
Paintbrushes
Silicone mat

These messy mats are a must for any project, and they work well to contain paint, glue, playdough, or any other mess.

Perfect for glue gun “sculptures”, they allow you to peel it away so easily.

First, decide which way you want to design your box.

We opted to put our box vertically so that we could maximize our waterfall and canopy height.

Paint the inside with thick blobby layers of different greens to create a thick full background, leaving some space for the blue of the waterfall.

Let the paint dry (or use a blow dryer to move it along a little faster).

Toucan Habitat Diorama With Waterfall

Then paint your blue waterfall from the top down and on the bottom inside of the box to create a little pool.

Allow the paint to dry completely, while you are waiting you can create the waterfall

Lay out your silicone mat and drizzle hot glue in continuous motions up and down as tall and as wide as you like.

Be sure to overlap each of the layers so that each strand of glue is touching in multiple areas.

Allow glue to cool and harden, add more to the base of the waterfall for where it splashes up as it hits the pool.

Once your glue is hardened you can dab a bit of blue on the glue or leave it clear.

When the paint is dry inside your habitat you can begin to assemble it.

Place some hot glue along the top and bottom of your waterfall and layer over where you painted it in the box.

Drip additional hot glue to attach it into place and fill it out as you like.

Next, glue in some rocks around the pool and secure some sticks from the yard to use as tree trunks.

Then, attach greenery to the “trees” as well as on the ground to create a thick dense rainforest

Finally, add in your toucan and other animals if you would like to represent various parts of the rainforest.

birds

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LEWIS WOODPECKER WATERCOLOR TUTORIAL

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7 FUN FACTS ABOUT PEREGRINE FALCONS

PEREGRINE FALCONS ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES

PEREGRINE FALCON WATERCOLOR

5 Fun Facts About Toucans

Toucan Habitat Resources

How To Make A Shoebox Toucan Habitat Diorama With Waterfall

Toucan Habitat Diorama With Waterfall

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