DDT and Peregrine Falcons

What a busy week we had in Room 102! I am blessed with inquisitive students that are embracing learning with tons of energy! This week we continued our animal research as we focused on endangered animals. Students read about the Peregrine Falcon and learned what scientist had to do to save the eggs so the animal would not become extinct.

Because of DDT, Falcon eggs became too thin. When the mother sat on them, they would crack and crush under her weight. We read about a clever scientist that came up with a plan to climb out to the edge of the cliff and switch the Falcon eggs with fake eggs. (I asked students to think about what that took to convince someone to do that job!) We saw some fantastic photos of the procedure and were inspired by their efforts. The scientists took the eggs to a lab, placed them in incubators, and monitored them until they hatched. After several weeks they were able to take the healthy babies back to the nest for another switch. Again, we talked about determination, bravery, and commitment to helping the animals in need.

The Peregrine Falcon is listed as an endangered species for South Carolina. After I shared this with students, I went to the website for Chimney Rock State Park. Over forty years ago you could not see a Falcon flying across the State Park. Today you can go bird watching at Chimney Rock and you have a great chance of seeing one of these birds soar across the sky. I really wanted to pack everyone up and go on a Field Trip to the mountains after reading this!

You can read more about them here:
Chimney Rock State Park