Watching birds out the window can foster enjoyment and appreciation of the world around us, but it can do so much more. Learning to observe birds can be a springboard for exploring nature, sound, flight, animal behavior, biodiversity, as well as writing, music and art.

Mid-Coast Audubon is again offering support to schools and libraries to foster natural history learning and exploration by providing equipment and resources to establish a bird feeding station. Schools and libraries in the midcoast area inland from Boothbay Harbor, west to Windsor and China, and east along the coast to Bucksport can apply online at https://midcoast.maineaudubon.org/projects/feeder-stations-for-schools-libraries/

The deadline for applications is March 30.

The grant for a feeding station includes a pole, feeders, baffle, storage can, starter supplies, educational resources, and compact binoculars. A Mid-Coast Audubon volunteer will come to your facility to help with setup and advice to launch or enhance your program.

Bird enthusiasts can help Mid-Coast Audubon supply more schools and libraries with feeding stations by making a donation to their feeder station program at P.O. Box 458, Damariscotta, ME 04543. All donations will be used to help teach kids about birds.

For listings of free programs and field trips hosted by Mid-Coast Audubon, visit their website at https://midcoast.maineaudubon.org/events/