Facts about ducks

Ducks

How many of you have heard about ducks before? Did you know ducks come from the same family as geese and swans? There are over 125 species of waterfowl throughout the world. Ducks are in the waterfowl family. All waterfowl love water, and most of them have webbed feet! With your parent/caretaker’s permission, google pictures of the ducks and see how cool they are! 

This is an excellent website to read all about ducks: 

Click here

 

What is your favorite kind of duck?

 

Facts about ducks:

1. There are over 25 different types of ducks. Here is a list of some of them:

• American Wigeon
• Barrow's Goldeneye
• Cinnamon Teal
• Eurasian Wigeon
• Harlequin Duck
• Long-tailed Duck
• Mallard
• Ring-necked Duck
• Surf Scoter
• Wood Duck

2. Ducks are omnivores. Omnivores means that they eat both vegetation and meat. Ducks eat grasses, aquatic plants, seeds, insects, worms, small crustaceans, and other vegetation.

3. One of the most enormous ducks is the male Muscovy duck. The male Muscovy duck can grow to about 30 inches long or more. The male Muscovy duck can weigh up to 15 pounds. 

4. The little Green-winged Teal is one of the most minor types of duck. It can grow to about 15 inches long and weigh up to a pound, more or less.

5. Ducks are very social and love to be in large groups. A group of ducks is called a flock of ducks, a raft of ducks, a team of ducks, or a waddling of ducks.

6. A baby duck is called a duckling. A male duck is called a drake. A female duck is called a hen.

7. Female ducks nest near the water but in a very sheltered area of vegetation. Some ducks nest on the ground, a hole in a tree, and many other places.

8. Ducks are both nocturnal and diurnal. They are active during both night and daytime hours.

 

 

Share a fact about ducks with us?

 

 

Get your free duck printable worksheet here:

 Ducks ABC worksheet

 

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

 

 

 

Books about ducks:

1. National Geographic Kids: Ducks by Jennifer Szymanski

2. Where Are the Ducks? by Jeffrey Bullard

3. Lucky Ducklings by Eva Moore

4. Waterfowl of Eastern North America by Chris G. Earley

5. HEWWO! by Mimi Jones

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

 

Short story alert:

There once was a young duck named Luck. He was a lucky little ducky. You see, one day, he got lost. He wondered too far from the water’s edge. He was lost in some very thick and tall grass. He was too little to see over the vegetation. Instead of going back towards the water, Luck, the duck, kept going further into the thick and tall grass. Luck spotted a very long-necked goose. Luck, the duck waddled over to the goose and asked if the goose could help him get back to the water? The goose said, “Hi, my name is Lucey.” My friends call me Lucey the goosey. Lucey said, “What is your name?” Luck said, “My name is Luck.” Luck said, “Hi, Lucey, can you help me get back to the water?” and Lucey said, “Sure, I will help you.” Lucey said, “The water appears to be that way; just turn yourself around, keep going straight, and you will soon find the water’s edge.” Luck did as Lucey said and soon found his way to the water. THE END!

 

 

Thank you for reading my post!! “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”-Dalai Lama.

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Facts about Missouri

Learn facts about Missouri for kids.

Last week, we inspired our community by sharing impactful facts about Mississippi. This week, we’re excited to share fascinating facts about Missouri, from its vibrant state flag to its beloved state bird and more. Join us on this journey of discovery as we count down to sharing insights from all 50 states.

Did you know Missouri is the twenty-fourth state to join the Union? It officially entered the union on August 10, 1821, following a process of statehood that included several significant events in its early history. Missouri is situated in the Midwestern region of the country, characterized by its diverse landscapes, which include rolling hills, rivers, and dense forests.

Geographically, Missouri is bordered by eight states: to the north lies Iowa; to the east, you’ll find Illinois and Kentucky; to the south are Tennessee and Arkansas; and to the west, Oklahoma and Kansas. Additionally, Missouri shares a prominent boundary with the Mississippi River, one of the longest rivers in the United States, which plays a crucial role in the state's ecology and economy.

In terms of size, Missouri ranks as the twenty-first largest state in the country, covering approximately 69,715 square miles. This makes it one of the larger states in the U.S. The population of Missouri is around 6,168,187 residents, making it a vibrant region with a rich cultural tapestry and a diverse economy. The state is renowned for its historical significance, including its pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States, and it remains a vital part of the nation's landscape today.

 

Missouri famous person alert:

Did you know that Maya Angelou was born in St. Louis, Missouri? She was a poet, author, and civil rights activist best known for her seven autobiographies. An autobiography is a written account of a person's life that they have written about themselves. The first book in this series is titled *I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings*.

 

Facts about Missouri:

1. Missouri is a state rich in history and culture, recognized for its significant contributions to American heritage. Among its notable highlights are the Pony Express, a mail service that operated in the 1860s and became famous for its speedy delivery across the western frontier; the fertile farmlands that stretch across its landscape, providing vital agricultural products; and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which embarked from St. Louis in 1804, exploring the newly acquired western territories of the United States.

The state is affectionately nicknamed the "Show Me State," reflecting the Missourian's reputation for being straightforward and skeptical. Other popular nicknames include the "Ozark State," named after the picturesque Ozark Mountains that attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, and the "Mother of the West," acknowledging its historical role as a launch point for westward expansion.

Missouri's state motto, "Salus populi suprema lex esto," translates from Latin to "The welfare of the people is the supreme law." This motto encapsulates the state's commitment to prioritizing the needs and well-being of its residents. It was officially adopted on January 22, 1822, and remains a guiding principle for governance in the state. 

To reference the state in writing, the standard abbreviation is MO, which is commonly used in postal addresses and official documents. Missouri is not just a place on the map; it embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and community.

2. The capital of Missouri is Jefferson City, which was designated as the state capital in 1821, following Missouri's admission to the Union. The city is named in honor of Thomas Jefferson, who served as the third president of the United States from 1801 to 1809 and is known for his role in authoring the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson City is centrally located along the Missouri River and plays a crucial role in the state's government and politics. It has an estimated population of approximately 42,670 residents, reflecting a diverse community that contributes to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including the Missouri State Capitol building, which showcases stunning architecture and serves as a hub for state legislative activities.

3. The state bird of Missouri is the Eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis), which was officially designated on March 30, 1927. This charming songbird is widely recognized for its striking and vibrant coloration. The male Eastern bluebird displays a brilliant deep blue plumage on its back and wings, which can be captivating when caught in sunlight. In contrast, females tend to have a more subdued appearance, featuring softer shades of blue and brown.

One of the defining characteristics of the Eastern bluebird is its rich, reddish-brown or rust-colored throat, which contrasts nicely with its blue feathers. The bird's underbelly is a soft, creamy white, adding to its overall elegance. Eastern bluebirds are not only visually stunning but also have a melodious song that can be heard in open fields and during the spring and summer months.

These birds prefer open habitats, such as meadows and farmlands, where they can often be seen perched on fence posts or tree branches, watching for insects and small fruit to eat. The Eastern bluebird symbolizes happiness and is cherished by birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts across Missouri, making it a beloved representative of the state’s natural beauty.

4. The official state flower of Missouri is the Crataegus punctata, also known as the White Hawthorn blossom. This perennial tree or shrub typically reaches heights of 15 to 30 feet and is characterized by its dense, thorny branches and glossy green leaves. The White Hawthorn is particularly admired for its stunning clusters of white flowers, which bloom from late May to early June, creating a beautiful display across the Missouri landscape.

These blossoms enhance the state's aesthetic appeal and attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, thereby contributing to local biodiversity. The Crataegus punctata holds cultural significance and was officially designated as Missouri's state flower on March 16, 1923. This designation reflects the appreciation for the flower's beauty and presence in Missouri's natural environment.

5. Missouri’s state flag was officially adopted on March 22, 1913, and is a symbol of the state's history and identity. The flag is designed with three horizontal stripes: a vibrant red stripe at the top, a white stripe in the middle, and a deep blue stripe at the bottom. 

At the center of the flag is Missouri’s coat of arms, which features elements that represent the state's rich heritage. Surrounding the coat of arms are 24 stars, which signify Missouri's position as the 24th state to join the United States. This arrangement of stars highlights the pride and significance of Missouri’s entry into the Union. The flag exemplifies both the state’s values and the unity of its residents.

6.Missouri is known for its diverse agricultural output, with several key crops contributing to the state's economy and food supply. Among these crops are corn, which is widely used for both animal feed and ethanol production; cotton, essential for the textile industry; oats, often utilized for livestock feed and human consumption; rice, a staple food for many cultures; soybeans, which are a vital source of protein and oil; and wheat, a fundamental ingredient in bread and other baked goods. Each of these crops plays an important role in Missouri’s agricultural landscape, reflecting the state's rich farming heritage and commitment to sustainable practices.

7. Missouri is home to a variety of fascinating attractions worth visiting. One standout is the Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins, located in the picturesque town of Camdenton. This historic site features the remnants of a stone castle built in the early 20th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding Ozark landscape. 

Another must-visit destination is the Saint Louis Zoo, renowned for its commitment to conservation and education. This award-winning zoo houses over 15,000 animals from around the world, offering a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Additionally, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, situated near Springfield, is a significant historical site that commemorates a pivotal battle of the American Civil War. Visitors can explore the well-preserved grounds, learn about the history of the conflict, and enjoy hiking trails amidst the scenic beauty of the area. Each of these locations offers a unique glimpse into Missouri’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

8. Missouri is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several notable animal species. Among these are bobcats, which are elusive predators known for their tufted ears and spotted fur. Beavers, recognized for their impressive dam-building skills, play a vital role in aquatic ecosystems. Brown bats, important for their insect-eating habits, can often be seen flitting about at dusk. 

Coyotes, adaptable and resourceful hunters, roam various habitats across the state. The eastern copperhead, a venomous snake with distinctive coloring, is another resident of Missouri’s forests and woodlands. Groundhogs, or woodchucks, are a common sight, especially in open fields, where they dig extensive burrows. Raccoons are often found near water sources, known for their dexterous front paws and masked faces. Red foxes, with their bushy tails and cunning nature, are a familiar presence in both rural and urban areas. Finally, the white-tailed deer, a symbol of the American wilderness, can be spotted gracefully roaming Missouri’s wooded landscapes and open fields. Together, these animals contribute to the region's rich biodiversity.

9. Missouri experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. On the hottest day ever recorded, temperatures reached 118 degrees Fahrenheit in Warsaw on July 14, 1954. On the flip side, the coldest it’s ever been hit a bone-chilling -40 degrees Fahrenheit in Warsaw on February 13, 1905.

 

Get your free printable Missouri worksheet here:

 

 

🏛️ Missouri – Build a Gateway Arch – ACTIVITY

Let’s visit Missouri!

Missouri is home to the Gateway Arch, a giant silver arch that welcomes travelers!

Activity Steps:

1. Use paper strips or shapes to build your own arch.

2. Decorate it with stars, clouds, or city buildings.

3. Measure how tall or wide your arch is.

4. Write a message that welcomes someone to your city.

Reflection:

What’s something you’ve built that made you feel proud?

Books about Missouri:

1. Good Night Missouri by Adam Gamble

2. Kids Love Missouri by George Zavatsky

3. My First Book About Missouri! by Carole Marsh

4. Little Missouri by Judy Young

Parents and caretakers should always choose books that are appropriate for their child or children before reading to them. It's essential for fostering a positive reading experience!

 

You can Click here to purchase the 50 States workbook on Amazon.

 

Be sure to tune in next week to discover some fascinating facts about Montana!

Northern Flicker Facts

🌟 Meet the Northern Flicker: Nature’s Speckled Drummer

If you’ve ever heard a soft tapping on a tree trunk or spotted a bird with polka-dot feathers and a golden glow under its wings, you might have met a Northern Flicker. These woodpeckers are full of surprises, and they’re one of the few that prefer hunting on the ground!

🎨 What Do They Look Like?

Northern Flickers are characterized by a coat of brown with black spots, stripes, and crescents. Their bellies are speckled like a painter’s canvas, and depending on where you live, you might see a flash of yellow or red under their wings and tail. Males often have a little mustache mark, like nature’s way of adding flair!

🐜 Ground Peckers, Not Tree Peckers?

Unlike most woodpeckers, Northern Flickers love to eat ants. They use their long, sticky tongues to scoop them up from the ground. You might see them hopping through your yard, poking into the soil like feathered detectives.

🪵 Why Do They Drum?

Flickers don’t just tap trees for food; they drum to talk! That rhythmic tapping is how they say, “This is my space!” or “Hey, I’m looking for a mate!” Sometimes they even drum on metal poles or rooftops to make their message louder.

🏡 Where Do They Nest?

Northern Flickers nest in tree cavities, often ones they carve out themselves. If you have an old tree nearby, you might be offering a perfect home. They’re gentle neighbors and help control insect populations, too.

🍂 What Makes Them Special?

• They migrate with the seasons, but some stay year-round depending on the weather.

• They’re one of the few woodpeckers you’ll see in open fields and backyards.

• Their call sounds like a cheerful laugh, some say it’s like a “wick-a wick-a wick!”

💛 A Gentle Reflection

Northern Flickers remind us that being different is beautiful. While most woodpeckers stick to trees, flickers follow their own path, tapping into the earth, dancing through meadows, and laughing into the wind. They teach us that it’s okay to stand out, and that sometimes, the ground holds just as much magic as the sky.

Get your Northern Flicker worksheet here:

 

 

 

 

Books about Woodpeckers, Northern flickers:

1. Woodpecker Wham! by April Pulley Sayre

2. About Woodpeckers: A Guide for Children by Cathryn Sill

3. 19 Species of Woodpecker Picture Book by Simeon Toluwase

4. Woodpecker Fun Facts by Michelle Hawkins

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

Short story alert:

🐦 The Day the Baby Flicker Flew

Once upon a time, three Northern Flickers perched high in a leafy tree. The sun peeked through the branches, and the wind whispered, “Today is the day.”

The littlest flicker fluffed its speckled feathers. It was nervous, but excited. Today was the big day to learn how to fly!

Mama Flicker gave a gentle nudge. Papa Flicker chirped encouragement. Step by step, the baby flicker waddled down the branch, its tiny claws gripping the bark.

At the very end of the branch, Mama gave one last nudge, and the baby flicker tumbled down!

But instead of panicking, the baby flicker stood quietly on the soft ground. It looked around with wide eyes. The grass tickled its toes. Ants marched nearby, and the baby flicker remembered something important: Northern Flickers love ants!

Before flying, it scooped up a few with its long, sticky tongue, yum! A snack for courage.

Then, with wings spread wide, the baby flicker ran back and forth. It flapped. It stumbled. It tried again.

Mama and Papa stayed close, cheering with chirps and gentle drumming sounds.

And then… it happened.

The baby flicker lifted off the ground, just a little at first. Then higher. Then higher still!

It soared through the air, spotted belly shining in the sunlight. The trees clapped their leaves. The ants watched in awe.

The baby flicker had done it. It had learned to fly.

THE END.

🎨 Create Your Own Flicker Story

A gentle writing and drawing activity for kids

Northern Flickers are full of personality. They drum to communicate, flash bright feathers, and explore the ground for ants. This activity invites children to imagine life from a flicker’s point of view—blending empathy, creativity, and gratitude.

✏️ Part 1: Write Your Flicker Tale

Prompt:

Imagine you are a Northern Flicker waking up in a cozy tree nest. What do you see? What sounds do you hear? Where will you fly today?

Start your story with:

"Today, I woke up with the sun tickling my feathers..."

Encourage kids to include:

• What they eat (hint: ants!)

• Where they fly

• What they drum on

• How they feel when they spot a friend

🎨 Part 2: Draw Your Flicker Adventure

Invite children to draw:

• Their flicker character (spotted belly, colorful wings)

• The tree or field they explore

• A friend they meet along the way

💛 Part 3: Gratitude Pause

After writing and drawing, reflect with this gentle prompt:

“One thing I’m grateful for in nature is…”

Let kids write or draw their answer in the shape of a heart.

Facts about Mississippi

Learn facts about Mississippi for kids.

Just last week, we shared some fascinating facts about... Minnesota. This week, we're excited to share fascinating facts about Mississippi! You'll discover details about the state flag, the state bird, and many other intriguing aspects of Mississippi's culture and history. Join us as we explore the richness of this state.

Did you know that Mississippi holds the distinction of being the twentieth (20th) state to join the United States? That’s right! Mississippi officially became part of the Union on December 10, 1817, marking a significant moment in American history. Located in the Southeastern region of the U.S., Mississippi is characterized by its diverse geography and rich cultural heritage.

This state shares its borders with four neighboring states: to the north, it is bordered by Tennessee; to the east, by Alabama; to the west, by Louisiana; and to the northwest, by Arkansas. Additionally, Mississippi has a coastline along the Gulf of Mexico to the south, which enhances its natural beauty and provides various recreational opportunities.

In terms of size, Mississippi ranks as the thirty-second (32nd) largest state in the country, placing it squarely in the medium-sized category compared to its peers. The state boasts a population of approximately 2.9 million residents, reflecting a community rich in history and cultural diversity. From its vibrant music scene to its significant role in American literature and the civil rights movement, Mississippi has made profound contributions to the nation's cultural tapestry.

Mississippi famous person alert:

Henry Sampson was born in Jackson, Mississippi, and had a successful career in several fields. He made significant contributions to technology as an engineer and wrote books to share his insights. He was also interested in film history and studied its evolution. One of his key inventions is the gamma-electric cell, used in energy production and research. His achievements have made a lasting impact on engineering and beyond.

 

Facts about Mississippi:

Free Printables

Worksheets and Coloring Sheets

I have a variety of free printables available for teachers and homeschool parents/caretakers. These include coloring sheets and worksheets covering topics such as math, states, alphabetical order, holidays, and animals. As a homeschooling mom of two, I create all the printables myself, and my daughter contributes some of the artwork. Feel free to print out anything you like!

If you're looking for a specific worksheet and don't see it on my page, please don't hesitate to contact me. We are more than happy to create a custom worksheet to meet your needs.

I also have a printable memory card game and ABC flashcards, all of which are free to print. Help yourself to whatever you'd like, and please share my page with others. Thank you kindly!

You can go here to check them out and 

download your free printables: 

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Here are some examples of the worksheets you will find by clicking the link to my printables page: 

We now have a workbook about the 50 states available on Amazon. 

You can CLICK HERE to get your copy. 

Thank you for reading my post!! “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”-Dalai Lama

Facts about Goats

Goats

Who loves goats? Maybe you have a pet goat. Do you live on a farm where there are goats? You can learn some cool goat facts here, whatever they are. Did you know that goats are capable of understanding their own name? They will come to you when called. Goats are intelligent animals. Goats keep themselves clean.

 

What is your favorite kind of animal?

 

Facts about goats:

1. There are about 200 types/breeds of goats. Here is a list of some of the goats:

• Alpine
• Angora
• Boer
• Damascus
• Fainting
• La Mancha
• Nubian
• Pygmy
• Sable
• Spanish

2. Goats come in all shapes and sizes, but the Pygmy goat is one of the smallest breeds. Pygmy goats can grow to twenty-three (23) inches tall and weigh seventy (70) pounds or more.

3. Boer goats are one of the most giant breeds of goats. Boer goats can get up to three (3) feet tall and weigh up to two hundred and fifty (250) pounds or more.

4. Goats are herbivores. Herbivores only eat vegetation; goats eat grass, hay, tree leaves, weeds, and other plants.

5. Goats come in a variety of colors, including different shades of black, brown, gray, red, and white. They can have stripes, be spotted, or be one solid color.

6. A group of goats is called a herd, tribe, or trip. A female goat is called a nanny goat or a doe. A male goat is called a buck or billy goat. Baby goats are called kids.

7. Angora goats grow wool/hair/fur called mohair.  Mohair is used to make fabrics, yarn, and sweaters.

8. Goats can live, on average, up to 18 years old. McGinty was the oldest goat ever. She lived to be 22 years and five months old.

9. If you live in Maryland or plan to visit, you can stop by Kinder Farm Park, located in Severna Park, Maryland, to see goats and other farm animals. Here is the link to their website: Kinder Farm Park

 

Share a fact about goats with us?

 

Get your free printable Goat worksheet here:

 Goat worksheet ABC order

 

 

Books about goats:

1. Let's Count Goats! by Mem Fox

2. Raising Goats: A Beginner's Guide to a Healthy Herd by Daniel A. Hart

3. G is for Goat by Patricia Polacco

4. Your Goats: A Kid's Guide to Raising and Showing by Gail Damerow

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

Short Story Alert:

There was a goat named Mars who loved to watch over his family. Every day, he would stand guard over them. He loved his family and would do whatever it took to keep them safe. Mars the goat would get all his children together, and they would listen to the stories of when he was younger. They would all sit and listen closely because they did not want to miss one word. You see, Mars the Goat was an excellent storyteller. All his children loved listening to their father's stories. They learned a lot from the wise words of their father and all of his stories. The end! 

 

 

Thank you for reading my post!! “Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and twice as beautiful as you’ve ever imagined.”-Dr. Suess

Check these free printables out:

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

Books I have written:

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

 

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Facts about Minnesota

Learn facts about Minnesota for kids.

Last week, we shared informative facts about Michigan. This week, dive into the fascinating world of Minnesota! Discover intriguing facts about the state's flag, bird, and more that make Minnesota unique and special. Don't miss out on learning what sets this state apart!

Did you know Minnesota was the thirty-second (32^nd) state to join the union? Minnesota officially became a state on May 11, 1858, making it the 32nd state to enter the United States. Located in the upper Midwestern region, Minnesota is renowned for its diverse geography, which encompasses expansive forests, numerous lakes, and the northern shores of Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area.

The state shares its borders with four other states: Wisconsin to the east, Iowa to the south, and South Dakota and North Dakota to the west. Additionally, Minnesota has an international border with Canada to the north, which features several entry points and breathtaking natural landscapes.

As the twelfth-largest state in the United States by area, Minnesota encompasses roughly 86,943 square miles, making it one of the largest states in the nation. The population of Minnesota is approximately 5,707,390 residents, contributing to a rich cultural landscape marked by a blend of urban centers, such as Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and vibrant rural communities. The state is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, strong education system, and commitment to the arts, making it a unique and appealing place to live and visit.

 

Minnesota famous person alert:

Did you know the legendary musician Prince Rogers Nelson, widely known as Prince, resided in Chanhassen, Minnesota? This talented individual was a prolific songwriter, a captivating singer, and a masterful instrumentalist. His remarkable skills allowed him to play over 20 different instruments, showcasing his versatility and creativity in music.

 

Facts about Minnesota: