Appreciating Protective Parents
By Jim Morris
One of the top priorities in our household is to steer our kids into successful adulthood. We’re halfway there, with daughter Ashley doing well on her own and son RJ a few years from fledging the nest.
I appreciate strong parenting, and frequently see it in rice fields. It’s nesting season right now, with quite a few birds raising their young. Get too close and they’ll voice their displeasure. Good parenting!
My visit to a bittern nest in Butte County was an example of excellent parenting. This ‘mama bear’ made herself heard!
Rice fields are vital habitat for millions of birds. Since they contain an entire, thriving ecosystem, it doesn’t hurt for wildlife parents to be cautious when they see visitors. I received, and respected, her clear message!
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.