Nostalgialistic: The sound of childhood

Title: The Symphony of Spring: A Walk Through Campus Amongst Avian Choristers

As the season transitions from winter to spring, the world around us comes alive with renewed energy and vibrancy. One of the most delightful aspects of this transformation is the return of birds, who grace us with their presence as they build their nests and prepare for another season of life. For many, including myself, this avian awakening brings back fond memories of childhood and adds a sense of joy to our daily routines.

The symphony of bird songs that greets us during this time is not only a delightful auditory experience but also an essential part of our ecosystem. Birds play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nature by controlling pest populations, pollinating plants, and dispersing seeds. Let's take a closer look at some of the common bird species that can be found on college campuses during springtime.

1. American Robins (Turdus migratorius): These red-breasted birds are often among the first to return in the spring. They are omnivores, feeding on earthworms, insects, fruit, and berries. Robins are known for their distinctive "cheer-up" call, which can be heard throughout campus grounds.

2. Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis): These bright red birds with black masks and crests are native to North America. They are omnivores that feed on seeds, fruits, insects, and small animals. Their distinctive whistle-like song can be heard from sunrise to sunset during the breeding season.

3. Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata): These intelligent birds are known for their striking blue plumage and black "cap" on their heads. They are omnivores that feed on nuts, fruits, seeds, insects, and small animals. Blue Jays are also known for their ability to mimic other bird calls and even human speech.

4. American Goldfinches (Spinus tristis): These small, bright yellow finches are often found in open fields and meadows. They are herbivores that feed primarily on seeds from plants such as thistles, sunflowers, and teasels. Their melodic songs can be heard throughout campus during the breeding season.

5. European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris): Introduced to North America in the late 1800s, European Starlings are now one of the most common bird species in North America. They are omnivores that feed on fruits, seeds, insects, and small animals. Their complex songs are a mix of various bird calls and sounds.

6. House Sparrows (Passer domesticus): These small, brown birds are often found in urban environments. They are omnivores that feed on seeds, grains, fruits, and insects. Their distinctive "chirping" calls can be heard throughout campus grounds year-round.

7. Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura): These graceful birds are known for their cooing sounds and distinctive head feathers that resemble collars. They are omnivores that feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. Their cooing calls can be heard throughout campus grounds during the breeding season.

8. House Wrens (Troglodytes aedon): These small, brown birds are known for their distinctive "tea-kettle" song. They are insectivores that feed primarily on insects but also consume fruits and seeds. Their songs can be heard throughout campus grounds during the breeding season.

In conclusion, as we walk to our 9 a.m. classes during this beautiful season of spring, let us take a moment to appreciate the avian choristers that accompany us on our journey. Their songs not only bring back fond memories of childhood but also serve as a reminder of the essential role they play in our ecosystem. So, look up, take a deep breath, and let the symphony of spring serenade you as you make your way through campus.