Zoo & Scout conservationist are ‘birds of a feather’

MINOT, N.D. – A new habitat is complete at Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot.

In pursuit of his Eagle Scout rank, Harvey Gorecki created two purple martin birdhouse habitats so zoo staff can best care for not only its zoo residents, but for those who fly-over as well.

Gorecki, a member of Troop 1433 and a Minot High School Central Campus freshman, conducted much of his own research before construction. He learned that purple martins are the only bird entirely dependent on humans to make their nesting structure. They are the largest members of the swallow family and have adapted to living near humans.

“Purple martins depend on human-made homes for nesting because they do not make their own homes. They are at risk from other predators including invasive bird species and other dangers in migration. When purple martins settle in birdhouses, they are likely to return yearly as they are assured by human presence,” said Gorecki. Plus, he said,“The first martin to arrive is called a ‘scout.’”

In pursuit of his Eagle Scout achievement, Gorecki also learned about construction, community and communication. He was able to acquire metal roofing material from Tecta America Dakotas, a company also currently working on a construction project at the zoo.

Roosevelt Park Zoo staff said they appreciate Gorecki’s attention to detail and common interest in saving animals from extinction. “Conservation starts in our own backyard,” they said.

–

Volunteers welcome

Volunteers are welcome at Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot.

“We have 20 acres of beautiful trees – and ‘many hands make light work’ when it comes to raking,” according to zoo staff.

Those interested in volunteering can stop by the Visitor Center during the zoo’s winter hours Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. or call with a Sunday group. Those volunteering this spring will receive as a thank you a day pass to return to the zoo to enjoy it on another day.

Zoo & Scout conservationist are ‘birds of a feather’

Follow us on Google News

Follow us on Flipboard

Trending Slider

North Dakota Highway Patrol investigates after vehicle crashes into school bus, driver arrested for driving under the influence amid alleged distraction by cellular device

Gov. Kelly Armstrong issues statement after federal officials decide future of Dakota Access Pipeline, says its continued operation would support affordable energy prices and national energy security

Officers and staff honored during Bismarck Police Department 2025 annual employee awards ceremony

Gov. Kelly Armstrong chosen to lead influential multi-state commission starting in 2027 after Oklahoma City vote

Bismarck Police Department swears in five new recruits during ceremony

North Dakota Highway Patrol discourages trailers and high-profile vehicles during strong winds after crash survivor survives, troopers say the occupant was saved by their seat belt

Follow us on News Break

Categories

Zoo & Scout conservationist are ‘birds of a feather’

Related posts

Baby found unconscious before he died, then poIice found disṭurbing writing on body!

Woman disregarded a ‘reguIar bug bite’, it ended up to be something absoIuteIy IethaI!

Baby’s heart stopped ḃeating after 11 days in a criticaI coƞdition because of mom’s terribIe mistake!

Daughter and dad in admitted lndecent reIationship received the vvorst possibIe news!

Minot Area Council of the Arts continues to fund projects

New face at the Roosevelt Park Zoo

Follow us on Google News

Follow us on Flipboard

North Dakota Highway Patrol investigates after vehicle crashes into school bus, driver arrested for driving under the influence amid alleged distraction by cellular device

Gov. Kelly Armstrong issues statement after federal officials decide future of Dakota Access Pipeline, says its continued operation would support affordable energy prices and national energy security

Officers and staff honored during Bismarck Police Department 2025 annual employee awards ceremony

Gov. Kelly Armstrong chosen to lead influential multi-state commission starting in 2027 after Oklahoma City vote

Bismarck Police Department swears in five new recruits during ceremony

North Dakota Highway Patrol discourages trailers and high-profile vehicles during strong winds after crash survivor survives, troopers say the occupant was saved by their seat belt