Sierra Outdoor School

Did you know… the United States has less than 5% of the world’s population but consumes 19% of the world’s energy. On average, one American consumes as much energy as approximately 2 Japanese, 31 Indians, or 307 Tanzanians. Source: buff.ly/1hrtNtI   As we fight to slow climate change, our daily choices regarding energy use can make a big difference. In California, about 44% of the total energy consumed is by appliances, electronics, and lighting. Luckily, this is something we have a lot of control over! Here at SOS we reduce our energy consumption not only through our Pig Post program (see our December blog post), but also with a weekly energy competition! Wireless energy monitors located in each dorm record both real-time and cumulative energy use each day. Each monitor is surrounded by a poster explaining how the monitor works and why it is important. Read below! Students learn about the competition upon their arrival and begin participating the first momen...

Great News! SOS has an addition to its Raptor Center. Our newest bird is a female Western Screech Owl (WSO). She has been at SOS for over 200 days now, and a lot of training has been done to get her ready to be seen by kids. She has gotten used to her new home (mew), learned to tolerate her handler, learned to step up on the glove and back to the perch, and learned to be outside on the glove. The next step is for her to be seen by her first class. If all goes well, we are hoping that she will be viewed outside by schools in January. Below are a few pictures of her in her mew and outside with the different perches. The WSO tethered in her mew. Tethering provides a safe environment for her and trainer while she learns to be in a new home.  Two of the perches built specifically for a raptor her size.  Another perch.  Learning how to be perched outside.  Maybe the WSO's first time seeing snow.  WSO with a piece of food to reinforce...