Just like humans, wildlife also requires a healthy diet to survive. As humans, we’ve become accustomed to having the foods we like at any time of the year, but there was a time when we relied more on the wild game, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains available in a particular season. So when you hear someone say a food item is “in season,” they’re referring to the times of year when the harvest or the flavor of a given type of food is at its peak. It also appeals to people who prefer a low carbon diet that reduces greenhouse gas emissions (food miles) resulting from food consumption.

We could learn a little something from wildlife who always eat a low carbon diet and rely on what’s in season to meet their food needs. Eating a healthy diet gives both wildlife and humans the energy needed to keep all their body systems functioning in proper order. In the activity below, you will help children understand the term “in season” and how it’s vital to the planet and to keep our body healthy and full of the energy it needs. Also, you’ll be looking at five different birds and their healthy, in-season eating habits that get them through the cold winter months.