Wildlife Refuge

Saturday was a recognition picnic for volunteers who have participated in the Adopt an Area program contributing to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Austin helped clean up the Haulover Canal a few months ago, so he went to the picnic and took Madi with him to see the avian recovery exhibit. They went for a quick fishing trip in the kayak and then headed to the pavilion. There were door prizes for the volunteers, and Madi picked a book called "Freshwater Fish of Florida." Each page has a picture of a fish, its name, and detailed information. She was so excited to come home and show me this book! She now insists we read it as a bedtime story, and she'll follow me around the house asking "Mommy, what dat kinda fish?!"

She also was very excited about seeing all the birds. Her favorite was Pierce, the red tailed hawk. He was found after he'd fallen out of his nest and badly injured his wing. He was bitten up by red ants and even lost an eye because of it, poor thing.

This one is my favorite. It's a barn owl, which apparently can't "hoot" but can make up to 27 other noises, including an ear-piercing screech and a hiss like a snake. Who knew there was an owl that can't hoot?!

Madi didn't realize this kite was right behind her head. :)

Austin looked exhausted, but Madi had so much fun that she was too wound up to take a nap! She came home and told me all about the birds and her book and fishing on Daddy's kayak. They had such a fun day!