On a crystal clear morning, with snow in unmelted patches, I saw a pair of Grosbeaks. Hiking with a birder friend who was more concerned with physical exertion than admiring our surroundings, she continued forward as I stopped to capture a few shots.
When we finally stopped for water and a rest, I showed the others my pictures. They couldn’t believe I was the only one who saw the birds. I’ve since learned about these birds, including a new word “frugivore” which means fruit eater. They do, however also eat seeds and feed spiders and insects to their young. Interesting that the adult birds don’t eat those things. It’s like fish sticks, Lucky Charms, and boxed macaroni and cheese – parents feed these to their children but don’t eat them as adults. If you’re still eating these things, that’s fine – I’m not judging.
Published by authorlaurablog
I'm a reading specialist and award winning educator from Chicago. While living in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado for nine years, I spent time hiking on the trails with my Goldendoodle Charlie and friends, writing, working in a literacy program at the Boulder Public Library, and mentoring writers and teachers. I love visiting schools. My books combine STEM and Kindness. "Aliana Reaches for the Moon" a picture book that draws inspiration from the moon and the curiosity of children, inviting children to be creative, explore, and experiment. "An Accidental Hero: A Mostly True Wombat Story" a picture book told in the form of a newscast which skillfully balances the serious subject of forest fires with compassion and humor to help children navigate this important topic through the real events of 2020. I moved to Northern New Jersey in 2025 and am working on new projects.
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Laura Roettiger Books 