In May, students at Lido Elementary were treated to a unique and engaging science experience as they witnessed the hatching of baby Bobwhite Quails right inside their school. The excitement continued June 2 with a special visit from three ambassador birds, part of an environmental education program designed to foster a deeper connection to nature while supporting local ecosystems.
The quail hatching initiative is part of a broader tick remediation and conservation effort led by the Center for Environmental Education & Discovery (CEED), a Suffolk County based nonprofit. CEED’s mission is to inspire connections to the natural world through discovery, art, and education. The organization reaches people of all ages through conservation projects, school-based programs, and live animal ambassador visits.
Bobwhite Quail, once common on Long Island, have experienced significant population declines due to habitat loss and predation from domestic animals. Their reintroduction is critical to ecological balance, not only do they help manage tick populations through their diet, but their iconic calls also enhance the island’s natural soundscape.
“This program is an incredible example of how students can witness the impact of their environment and their role in protecting it,” said Lido Elementary Librarian Tara Salvadore, who brought the initiative to Lido as part of her graduate studies in conservation education. “My goal is to help students see themselves as stewards of nature and to understand the connections between human actions and the natural world.”
The program is led by CEED naturalist Eric Powers, with support from a dedicated team of educators and volunteers who incubate, hatch, and care for the quail each spring. Once the chicks are strong enough, they move to outdoor pens to develop the survival skills needed for release into carefully selected wild habitats later in the summer.
The June 2 visit from the ambassador birds offered students an up-close opportunity to learn about local species and the importance of wildlife conservation. The event was made even more meaningful by the involvement of Scarlett Friedman, a seventh grader at Oyster Bay High School and daughter of Ms. Salvadore. As the caretaker of the ambassador birds, Scarlett played a central role in the educational exhibit, presenting the birds, conducting Q&A sessions with students, and safely facilitating hands-on interactions.
Through initiatives like this, Long Beach Public Schools continues to promote environmental responsibility and hands-on science learning, empowering students to become active participants in conservation efforts right in their own backyard.
Date Added: 6/13/2025