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Each spring, individuals of all ages venture from Saskatoon to participate in the Mary Houston Bluebird Trail as citizen scientists. Established in 1969, this 80-kilometer trail runs from just south of Langham, Sask., to north of Hanley, Sask., featuring small birdhouses attached to fences every 400 meters.
These 250 nest boxes serve as crucial habitats for migrating birds, monitored by volunteers like Greg Fenty, a biologist and retired environmental educator leading the initiative for the Saskatoon Young Naturalists. The project focuses on tracking bluebirds and tree swallows in terms of their reproductive success and survival rates over time.
Historically, bluebird populations faced declines due to habitat loss and pesticide use until the 1950s, prompting increased conservation efforts. Volunteers on the Bluebird Trail learn bird banding techniques from Fenty, enabling them to identify species and track individual birds. This hands-on experience benefits both adults connecting with nature and children learning about bird life cycles.
Pi Srithammawut and his family, newcomers to Canada since 2024, joined the project to explore their new environment. For Srithammawut, the experience of observing and learning about birds nurtures a deeper connection to nature and the Earth, especially for his son, Pacer.
Another participant, Betty McBride, enjoys sharing the trail experience with her grandchildren, emphasizing the educational value and joy of outdoor activities. Maycie McWillie, inspired by her childhood involvement in the project, pursued a career in biology, emphasizing the impact of hands-on citizen science experiences on young minds.
Many returning bluebirds wearing bands reaffirm the project’s long-term success, with Fenty observing the birds’ continued presence in the nest boxes. The Saskatoon Young Naturalists group organizes workshops for kids to build bird boxes, contributing to habitat conservation efforts before the nesting season.
As spring progresses, volunteers will monitor and band the birds under Fenty’s guidance, combining outdoor fun with biodiversity education. The Bluebird Trail project encourages a deeper understanding of nature while fostering a sense of stewardship among participants, young and old alike.