Joey Saves The Day!

Saturday, June 4

Facts about Grackles

Grackle Facts

Chirp! Chirp! Have you heard about the Grackles? Grackles are shiny-looking blackbirds. 11 species of grackles live in different parts of the world. This year, we were blessed to have not one but three grackle nests in a tree in our front yard. In one of the nests, there were three baby grackles. We watched them from our kitchen window, where they were being fed by adult birds. When the baby birds were hungry, they would chirp very loudly. One day, we noticed the baby birds trying to hop out of their nest. A few days later, we spotted them perching on branches of the tree near their nest. The next day, one of the baby grackles was on the ground hopping around. Two adult grackles were close by watching. We got to experience a baby grackle learning to fly. It was amazing.

The baby grackle hopped over to the bushes in our front yard and got behind them. It would run back and forth behind the bushes while trying to fly. It would lift up off the ground. Then, it would drop down, run, and fly a little. It flew up on our front porch step and stood there looking around. Then it flew onto the ground and ran/hopped towards our fence. On top of the rail sat two adult grackles watching the baby grackle trying to learn to fly. One of the adult grackles flew down to the ground and tried to show the baby grackle how to get under the fence. The adult grackle walked under the wall twice, showing the baby how to do it. It took two tries for the baby grackle to get under our fence. While in the backyard, the baby grackle reminded me of a toddler running back and forth, learning to walk. The baby grackle learned to fly within three days, and so did the other two. It was amazing watching them and seeing them learn to fly. The most impressive part of this experience was how the adult grackles looked after their babies! If you ever see a fledgling on the ground learning to fly, don’t approach it. It is not in trouble. It is learning to fly.

Baby grackle under the tree!

Baby grackle behind the bushes and flower pots.

Baby Grackle learning to fly!

Are there grackles in the state where you reside?

Facts about grackles:

1. A group of grackles is called a flock or plague. Grackles are social and prefer to live and travel in groups. Some grackles migrate during the winter months, and some do not.

2. Grackles are omnivores. Omnivores means that they eat plants and meat sources for food. Some food grackles eat are berries, seeds, fruits, insects, frogs, mice, and eggs.

3. A baby grackle is referred to as a chick, nestling, or a fledgling.

4. Some grackles have been known to live about 22 years in the wild.

5. Grackles can weigh as much as 7 ounces, depending on the type. Some grackles can be as tall as 18 inches.

6. A female grackle can lay up to seven eggs. Could you imagine 7 little chirping grackles?

7. Here is a list of the eleven (11) types of grackles in alphabetical order:

Carib grackle
Boat-tailed grackle
Colombian mountain grackle
Common grackle
Golden tufted grackle
Great-tailed grackle
Greater Antillean grackle
Nicaraguan grackle
Red-bellied grackle
Slender billed grackle
Velvet-fronted grackle

Share a fact about grackles with us?

Baby grackle

Get your free printable grackle coloring/worksheet here:

Grackles alphabet worksheet

Visit my printable section for a wide selection of worksheets and coloring sheets!

Books about grackles:

1. Gracie Grackle by Mikko Macchione

2. Boat-tailed grackle by William Post

3. FRITZ the Uncommon Grackle by Lilianne White

4. Bad Birds of North America by Jack Wilcox

Parents/caretakers, be sure books are child-friendly before reading them to your child/children.

Thank you for reading my post!!

Check out my free printable coloring pages and worksheets!

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/printables.html

Follow me on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/mimijoey444/

Like and follow my author page

https://www.facebook.com/Mimi-Jones-114739544135886

Check out my books here:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/blog-page_16.html

If you are an author and would like to feature your book on my website, please check out my feature book section here:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/book-of-day.html

Mimi is the author of the JOEY SAVES THE DAY! book series.

Thursday, June 2

Facts about Illinois

Learn facts about Illinois for kids.

Last week, we unveiled empowering facts about... Idaho. This week, we will share interesting facts about Illinois, including its flag, state bird, and other notable features.

Did you know that Illinois was the 21st state to join the United States? Officially, Illinois became a state on December 13, 1818, marking a significant milestone in its history. Situated in the Midwestern region of the country, it shares its borders with five different states: Indiana to the east, Kentucky to the southeast, Missouri to the southwest, Iowa to the west, and Wisconsin to the north. To the northeast, Illinois is also graced by the shores of Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, which plays a vital role in the state's recreation and economy.

Covering an area of approximately 57,914 square miles, Illinois ranks as the 25th largest state in the United States by land size. It is also known for its diverse geography, ranging from rolling prairies and farmland to urban centers. The state is relatively populous, boasting an estimated population of about 12,671,460 residents, making it one of the most populous states in the nation. Illinois is home to major cities like Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, which serves as a cultural, economic, and political hub. Throughout its history, Illinois has been a significant contributor to various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation, thereby substantially enhancing the overall development of the American Midwest.

Interestingly, Walter Elias Disney, better known as Walt Disney, was born in Chicago, Illinois.

Facts about Illinois:

Facts about The Man Faced Stink bug

Man-faced Stink Bug Facts

Have you ever heard of a Catacanthus incarnatus, a Man-faced stink bug? This bug is really cool! It looks like it has a face on it with hair!! If you have ever seen one, you would know just how cool they are! If allowed, google the Man-faced stink bug with your parent's/caretaker’s permission. The Man-faced stink bug can be of different colors, such as orange, red, yellow, and cream. There is not much known about the rare man-faced stink bug. I can tell you this about it, though… it is one of the most excellent bugs I have ever seen!

Do you have stink bugs in the state you reside in?

Facts about the Man-faced stink bug:

1. The Man-faced stink bug, also known as Catacanthus incarnatus, is found in parts of Asia and India.

2. Who likes playing games? If you play games, this cool Man-faced bug can also be found in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

3. The Man-faced stink bug has appeared on postage stamps in Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore.

4. Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, had some Man-faced stink bugs shipped to them. I’m not sure if the Man-faced stink bugs are still there. I read an article about the arrival of man-faced stink bugs, which was dated 2017. You can read the article here and watch the video on the cool Man-faced stink bugs with your parents/caretaker’s permission:

Audubon Butterfly Garden webpage

5. You can even buy a Man-faced stink bug in a boxed picture frame. Yes, people sell them.

6. Most Man-faced stink bugs are herbivores. They eat mostly plants, fruits, and trees. They may cause a lot of damage to crops and plants.

7. Man-faced stink bugs can grow to over an inch long.

Share a fact about the Man-faced stink bugs with our viewers in the comments.

Get your free printable Man-faced stink bug coloring sheet here:

Man Faced Stink bug coloring sheet

Visit my printable section for a wide selection of worksheets and coloring sheets!

Books about Stink bugs:

1. Stink Bugs, Stick Insects, and Stag Beetles by Sally Kneidel

2. Stink Bug Saves the Day! The Parable of the Good Samaritan by Bill Myers

3. WORLD OF INSECTS Stink Bugs by Colleen Sexton

4. Hey There, Stink Bug! by Leslie Bulion

Parents/caretakers, be sure books are child-friendly before reading them to your child/children.

Thank you for reading my post!!

Follow me on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/mimijoey444/

Like and follow my author page

https://www.facebook.com/Mimi-Jones-114739544135886

Check out my books here:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/blog-page_16.html

If you are an author and would like to feature your book on my website, please check out my feature book section here:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/book-of-day.html

Subscribe to my YouTube channel

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1bduPttfxAukXAep6Bxisw

Mimi is the author of the JOEY SAVES THE DAY! book series.

Thursday, May 26

Facts about Idaho

Learn facts about Idaho for kids.

Hey everyone! Last week, we shared some interesting facts about... Hawaii. This week, we’re excited to share some fascinating facts about Idaho. We hope you enjoy learning about the state flag, the bird that represents Idaho, and many other interesting facts. It’s always wonderful to discover more about the places we love!

Idaho, often referred to as the Gem State due to its reputation for having a significant number of gemstones and a rich variety of natural resources, was the 43rd state to join the United States. It officially attained statehood on July 3, 1890, making it one of the later additions to the Union during a period of westward expansion.

Geographically located in the northwestern region of the U.S., Idaho shares its borders with six states: Washington to the northwest, Oregon to the west, Nevada to the south, Utah to the south, Wyoming to the east, and Montana to the northeast. This diverse landscape features mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes, which contribute to its breathtaking scenery and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities.

Spanning over 83,570 square miles, Idaho is the 14th-largest state in the United States. Its vast land area includes a range of ecological zones, from the fertile valleys of the south to the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains in the north.

According to the latest estimates, approximately 1,900,920 people currently reside in Idaho. The state's population reflects a rich tapestry of cultures, with a growing number of residents attracted to its natural beauty and quality of life. Major cities, such as Boise, the state capital, and Coeur d'Alene, highlight Idaho's unique blend of urban and rural living. Whether it's the agricultural heartland or the scenic recreational areas, Idaho has much to offer to its residents and visitors alike.

Facts about Idaho:

Facts about Candy Land

Candy Land Facts

🌈Happy rainbowtastic day to you!!🌈

I would like to tell you all about the game called Candyland (Candy Land)!! Candyland is a board game. Did you know that Candyland was actually invented by a woman named Eleanor Abbott in 1948? She was in the hospital and diagnosed with polio. There were a lot of very sick children in there with polio, too. So, a retired school teacher, Eleanor Abbott, decided to make a game for all the children. The Candyland (Candy Land) game kept the children busy and gave them something fun to do for hours. Sometime in 1949, Eleanor Abbott sold the game to Milton Bradley. Candyland was one of the first board games I learned to play as a child. My siblings and I loved playing this game. It entertained us for hours! It makes an excellent game for families to play together. Continuing reading to find out more cool facts about Candyland.

Have you played the Candyland board game?

Facts about Candyland (Candy Land):

1. Candyland is one of the games that helped make Milton Bradley famous. Hasbro currently makes it.

2. Adam Sandler was going to star in a live-action film based on the Candyland game. However, the movie was not made for legal reasons.

3. Candyland (Candy Land) is one of the top-selling board games each year. An average of one million units are sold each year, and more than fifty million board games have been sold since its release.

4. As of 2022, Candyland (Candy Land) has been around for 74 years.

5. There are over 20 different theme versions of Candyland.

Here is a list of some of those:

Candyland Giant edition
Candyland Unicorn edition
Candyland Retro series edition
Candyland 65^th anniversary edition
Candyland Disney Princess edition
Candyland Vintage bookshelf edition
Candyland The Kingdom of Sweets edition
Candyland My Little Pony edition
Candyland Colorforms Travel edition

6. Candyland is a 2 to 4-player game. The age stated on the box to play is 3+ years old. The game Candyland could teach toddlers social skills such as learning colors, counting, understanding directions, taking turns with others, helping imagination, and following the rules.

Share a fact about Candyland (Candy Land) with us?

Books about Candy Land:

1. Candyland (Hasbro Children's Book Collection) by Gail Herman

2. Hasbro Candy Land: Colors: by Insight Kids

3. CandyLand Jumbo Coloring and Activity Book by Hasbro

4. Hasbro Candy Land: Birthday Surprise! by Golden Books

Parents/caretakers, be sure books are child-friendly before reading them to your child/children.

Thank you for reading my post!!

Check out my free printable coloring pages and worksheets!

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/printables.html

Subscribe to my YouTube channel

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1bduPttfxAukXAep6Bxisw

Mimi is the author of the JOEY SAVES THE DAY! book series.

Thursday, May 19

Facts about Hawaii

Aloha!! Learn facts about Hawaii for kids.

Just last week, we shared some fascinating facts that caught everyone's attention about Georgia. This week, we will share interesting facts about Hawaii, including its state flag, bird, and other notable features.

Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to join the United States, officially being admitted to the union on August 21, 1959. This tropical paradise, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, comprises eight major islands: Hawaii (often referred to as the Big Island), Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. Geographically situated in the central Pacific Ocean, Hawaii is located approximately 2,400 miles southwest of the U.S. mainland.

In terms of size, Hawaii ranks as the 47th largest state within the United States, making it one of the smallest states by land area. Despite its limited size, Hawaii boasts a population of around 1,455,270 residents, contributing to a vibrant and diverse community that encompasses a blend of cultures and traditions. The state is known for its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and volcanic landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike, as well as a unique environment for its native flora and fauna.

Facts about Hawaii:

Facts about Bumblebees

Bumblebee Facts

Did you know that there are over 240 species of bumblebees? Yes, that is correct! Bumblebees are furry flying insects! They are larger than honeybees. Bumblebees aren’t always yellow and black in color. Some of the colors that bumblebees can be are white, yellow, black, reddish-orange, and red. Bumblebees prefer to live in a mild climate area. Most bumblebees can be found in the Northern Hemisphere. The Northern Hemisphere is the half of the earth above the equator. If you live in North America, you are in the Northern Hemisphere. Some bumblebees can be found living in places in South America, too. Part of South America is in the Northern Hemisphere.

Have you seen bumblebees where you live?

Facts about bumblebees:

1. Bumblebees are classified as herbivores. Herbivore means they mainly eat pollen, nectar, and honey. Bumblebees are also important pollinators of plants and crops.

2. Bumblebees live in hives/nests. They build their nests/hives in the ground, burrows, or other empty cavities. Bumblebees live in groups of up to 500 or less. A group of bumblebees is called a colony.

3. The largest species of bumblebee is Bombus dahlbomii, which lives in the southern part of South America. It can grow to as big as 1.6 inches long. That is a big bumblebee.

4. What is inside of the hive/nest? The queen bumblebee of the hive lays and protects her offspring. The worker bumblebees of the hive forage for food, clean, and care for the queen and other bumblebees. The drone bumblebees are male. The drone bumblebees’ main goal is to mate with a queen bumblebee.

5. Male bumblebees cannot sting. The other bumblebees can sting more than once because they do not lose their stinger when they sting. Don’t mess with bumblebees or any type of bees. Some people can be allergic to bee stings.

6. Bumblebees can fall asleep in flowers while out foraging for pollen and nectar if the temperature drops to under 55 degrees or colder.

Share a fact about bumblebees with us?