Audubon. You've heard that word before, but you're not sure what it means. Or you only have a vague understanding. That used to sum up my level of knowledge, but that all changed when I read Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt in 2011. The novel was filled with Audubon references, and it really sparked an interest to learn more. And now I'm passing that information along to you on Audubon Day. John James Audubon was a famous ornithologist and painter, who captured the wonder and beauty of wild birds in his art. His major work was called The Birds of America and is featured in this blog's picture. He was born on April 26, 1785, which is why we honor him today, April 26, 2013. There are several ways you can celebrate Audubon's contributions to science and art. Visit the Audubon Society's webpage to see how the naturalist's legacy continues to this very day. Read a biography to learn more about his amazing life (JB AUD in the Kid Zone). Read a book about some of the birds he found so fascinating (598 in the Kid Zone and Nonfiction). Walk through your backyard, your neighborhood, or a local park and do some birdwatching. Follow in Audubon's footsteps -- take some art supplies with you and try to capture what you see.
