Community Flocks to South Shore Joint Initiative’s March Break Nest Box Workshops

Over March Break, local public libraries were buzzing with activity as families gathered to welcome the spring season and support local wildlife. The South Shore Joint Initiative’s (SSJI) Wild Thing program offered a series of highly successful "build-your-own nest box" drop-in events from March 17 to March 19, drawing flocks of eager builders across six library branches.

The workshops provided a relaxed, hands-on space for the community to learn about habitats of local cavity-nesting birds like the beloved bluebird.

It was a very busy and productive atmosphere at every stop—from Picton to Bloomfield. While a few adults tackled the project solo, the majority of builders were children accompanied by enthusiastic adults.

Here is a look at our community impact:

  • 143 nest boxes were assembled and taken home by participants.
  • 250 people attended, learning about local cavity-nesting birds in the process.

Community Partnerships at Work

The success of the SSJI's Wild Thing drop-in workshops was bolstered by local experts and organizations. The nest box kits were provided generously by Dick Bird through Quinte Conservation, ensuring everyone had the right materials to craft a sturdy birdhouse. Kingston Field Naturalists provided real cavity-nesting specimens for participants to examine up close and as always we received a warm welcome from our host Prince Edward County Public Library.

Join the Flock: Become an SSJI Member at SSJI.CA. It's only $25 for individuals or $40 per family.

The overwhelming turnout for this event highlights just how passionate Prince Edward County is about preserving local nature. If you love Wild Thing programs and want to stay in the loop, we invite you to become a member of the South Shore Joint Initiative at SSJI.CA!

By joining SSJI, you ensure you are always the first to know about future Wild Thing programs, educational workshops, and community conservation initiatives. Get involved today: Visit us at SSJI.CA to sign up for a membership and help us continue protecting biodiversity of our beautiful South Shore.

Thanks to the hard work of volunteers, community partners, and eager local families, 143 new homes are officially waiting for our feathered neighbours to return to the County this spring.