Tales & Trails 

 

Follow the pages of The Language of Birds by Jon-Erik Lappano, illustrated by Zach Manbeck, along the Heritage Trails at the Stratford Perth Museum (4275 Huron Road, or 4275 Line 34, Stratford, ON). This self-directed Tales & Trails adventure blends literacy and nature, inviting visitors of all ages to explore the fascinating world of birds through discovery activities, scavenger hunts, listening stations, and interactive resources.

The Language of Birds cover
The Language of Birds

 

About the Author

Jon-Erik Lappano is an award-winning Canadian children’s book author who lives in Stratford, Ontario, with his wife, three daughters, and pets. His debut picture book, Tokyo Digs a Garden, illustrated by Kellen Hatanaka, won the Governor General’s Literary Award and was a finalist for the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award.

About the Illustrator

Zach Manbeck is an author and illustrator from Pennsylvania. As an artist, his work is described as modern vintage—nostalgic, yet fresh. As a writer, Zach aims to tell stories from a new perspective—stories that advocate for characters that haven’t yet had a chance to live in books, and stories sprinkled with lessons that encourage the forming of healthy minds.

 

The Language of Birds Discovery Activities 

Learn even more about birds during your visit to the Stratford Perth Museum, where bird discovery resources are available to complement your Tales & Trails experience. Whether you’re an experienced birder or simply curious about the wildlife around you, these activities will help you listen, learn, and discover the remarkable language of birds.
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Bird Calls
Every bird has its own unique voice. Learn to identify common local species by listening to their songs and calls, then see how many you can recognize while walking the trails.
Listen Below
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Bird Listening Station
Tune in to recordings of birds observed in the area and discover the amazing variety of sounds that make up the language of birds.
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Bird Feeder Instructions
Create a simple bird feeder. This hands-on activity helps support local wildlife while giving you opportunities to observe birds year-round.
Download the instructions or pick up a kit at the front desk at the Museum.
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Bird Trivia Challenge
Test your bird knowledge with fun facts and trivia questions. Can you identify local species, recognize bird calls, or uncover surprising secrets about our feathered neighbours?
Download the challenge here or pick up a print out at library or at the front desk at the Museum.

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Tales and Trails is an outdoor adventure that combines fresh air, literacy, nature and community spirit.

📍Stratford Perth Museum Heritage Trail is located at 4275 Huron Road, or 4275 Line 34, Stratford, ON

Discover the magic of a great book while out in nature this summer on the heritage trails of the Stratford Perth Museum.

Then grab a library Wonder Pass for free admission to explore INSIDE the museum, too.

This program is brought to you by Stratford Public Library, Rotary Club of Stratford, and the Stratford Perth Museum.

Questions? Contact Brandi at bgillett@splibrary.ca or 519-271-0220 x 116.

Stratford Perth Museum and Rotary Club of Stratford Logos

 

 

“The Language of Birds”

Bird Call Challenge

Book By Jon-Erik Lappano & Zach Manbeck

Listen to some of the bird calls below and see if you can guess which species of bird is ‘speaking.’

 

Bird 1 Clue: There is a baseball team named after this bird.

 

Bird 2 Clue: Their brains grow larger to store more memory.

 

Bird 3 Clue: They are amongst the smartest animals in the world and even hold generational grudges.

 

Bird 4 Clue: Parents of these birds make a thick, milky liquid in their throats to feed their young.

 

Bird 5 Clue: These birds lay bright-blue eggs.

 

Bird 6 Clue: Males of this species of bird whistle a “sweet, sweet, sweet, I’m so sweet” sounding song.

 

 

Check out this Bird Listening Station at the Stratford Public Library

 

 

 

Tales & Trails Upcoming Events

Date and Time: TBD

Cost: FREE

Location: TBD

Event Description:

This free drop-in event is in partnership with the Rotary Club of Stratford, Stratford Public Library, & Stratford Perth Museum.