Spring Watch- Visit by Ornithologist Mr Aidan Crean, hosted by Choice Housing.
On Thursday 29th May, Ballynahinch Primary School was delighted to welcome Aidan Crean, a passionate ornithologist, to lead our school assembly. His visit was kindly organised through Choice Housing, and it proved to be a memorable and inspiring experience for pupils and staff alike.
Aidan spoke to all the children, from Nursery right through to P7, about the importance of biodiversity, protecting animal habitats, and staying curious about the world around us. He encouraged everyone to appreciate the wonderful school grounds we are fortunate to have here at Ballynahinch Primary, reminding the children that adventure and discovery often start right outside our own doors.
Aidan also shared the inspiring story of how Sir David Attenborough began his lifelong journey as a naturalist — by simply picking up a magnifying glass and exploring his back garden. As Attenborough himself once said, “An understanding of the natural world and what’s in it is a source of not only a great curiosity but great fulfilment.” It was a wonderful reminder for our pupils of the importance of curiosity and care for nature.
During the assembly, Aidan hosted a lively ‘pop quiz’ with the children, challenging them to identify some of the bugs and insects commonly found in our environment. Both children and staff were captivated by his enthusiasm and infectious passion for the natural world.
Afterwards, the whole school made their way up into the forest area of our school grounds. Aidan had set up a mist net — a fine, lightweight net used by ornithologists to safely catch birds for research purposes. He demonstrated how wild bird calls are used to gently attract different species, in hopes of observing some of the seven types of wild birds known to inhabit our forest. Although no birds were caught on the day, Aidan took the opportunity to explain the fascinating process of bird ringing — where small, harmless rings are carefully placed on a bird’s leg to help track their migratory patterns, behaviour, and lifespan.
Aidan spoke in particular about Swifts, incredible birds that migrate all the way from Ballynahinch to Africa each year. He explained how these remarkable birds mate for life, and on their return from migration, need safe and suitable places to roost. Choice Housing are actively supporting this by providing bird boxes to ensure the Swifts have somewhere to call home when they return.
Before leaving, Aidan made a ‘solemn promise’ to the children to return next school year, after the half-term break — and this time at 6am — to attempt a live bird ringing demonstration. The excitement at the thought of an early-morning adventure with Aidan was clear to see.
It was a truly wonderful experience for everyone involved. The children left feeling inspired to care for the natural world around them and to stay curious about the incredible wildlife on our doorstep. A huge thank you to Aidan Crean and Choice Housing for making this opportunity possible — we look forward to welcoming him back soon.
