GRAYSTONE RANCH'S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 

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ORNITHOLOGY

A branch of zoology pertaining to the study of birds. From bird watching to nest building, guests are familiarized with our feathered friends as taxonomy, habitat and the necessities of organism survival are covered. This class includes skeletal remains, feather identification, the dissection of owl pellets, writing with a "real" feather, and much more. Our biggest asset is that we house birds (buttonquail to ostriches and everything in between ... both native and exotic ... bird availability may vary) so students may have "hands-on" experiences. Our specialty is raptors and sometimes falconry demonstrations are available. A hayride around the ranch will give each guest the opportunity to do some bird watching of their own. Don’t forget your binoculars!

Additional and exciting activities available for students:

Class A)  $0.75  
1) "The great American egg hunt" - Not just for Easter anymore ... prizes for the most eggs and the prize egg.
2) Scarecrow building - The perfect school memento! Each student has the opportunity to stuff scarecrow and he rides the bus home with YOU! Perfect for photo opportunities and classes can share custody through the year.

Class B)  $1.00
1) Chicken chases - All delight as student's attempt to net a prize hen.
2) Plaster casting bird prints - Another great memento is a foot print cast at the ranch. Each student shares responsibilities in the casting process and the cast serves as a token and everlasting reminder at the classroom. 
3) Egg painting - The artist comes alive as each student paints his or her own eggs. Parents love these "gifts"
4) Feather painting - More artistic value as feathers of different styles feathers are used to create a special craft on construction paper! 

Class C)  $2.00
1) Building a bird feeder - large pinecones are covered with peanut butter and then drenched in birdseed! They survive the ride home, neatly placed in zip-lock bags. This is conservation at its finest!

Click on photos to enlarge! 
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