Girl Scout Troop Engages in Parrot Care and Learning at Schubot Aviary
The Schubot Aviary welcomed a visit from College Station’s Girl Scout Troop 33002. This visit had been eagerly anticipated by the group due to their interest in birds, especially parrots.
The Schubot team hosted a one-hour tour of the aviary facilities as part of its commitment to educating the local community on avian-related topics and inspiring younger generations to pursue careers in wild bird health and research. Aviary manager, Debra Turner, guided the girls through the different areas and laboratories, sharing information about the current studies conducted with the various psittacine collections housed at the aviary and in the wild. Dr. Kent Turner gave an engaging introduction to bird parasitology and showed a few common specimens under the microscope.
As part of the visit, the troop was responsible for making “parrot enrichment materials” (A.K.A. parrot toys) to place in the different parrot enclosures. These toys stimulate and entertain the birds, helping to prevent destructive behaviors such as screaming and feather plucking. Enrichment materials are crucial for the well-being of the birds, and the girls took their task very seriously. It was a fun and rewarding experience for everyone involved!
A big thank you to the Schubot Center for providing this wonderful opportunity to learn about birds!
