Christian Kiley

As we begin shedding our winter layers, and the walk between classes no longer feels like a race against the cold, Penn State Abignton students can feel the spring rapidly approaching. Soon we can cast off our seasonal depression, and trade it in for our regular year-round depression. It may feel as though we are doomed to anxiety and depression no matter what time of year it is, but fear not! Help, in the form of re-connecting with the outdoors, is on the way! 

In an article for the APA, Kristen Wier found that appreciating and interacting with nature can improve our mental health. Here’s how we can do that on-campus at Penn State Abington. 

The Birds: 

One of the most noticeable groups of animals that can be seen, taking to the skies and singing spring songs. The Canadian Goose is the first that we can see, usually flocking en masse, intimidating students behind the Woodland Building. However, there are many more, less ganglike avians that can be seen in the area. 

According to a guide released by Philly Nature, among the most common birds in the area are the American Robin and the European Starling. The American Robin can be identified by its scarlet breast feathers, while the Starling is most recognizable for its triangular, stealth bomber-like shape as it dives and glides through the air. A keen eye will be able to see them not just in the air, but as they hop along leisurely through the sprawling campus lawns. 

Of course, even if some birds can’t be seen, they can most certainly be heard. Such is the case for the many species of warblers native to the area. All types of warblers, known for their trilling calls, can be seen in the area during the springtime, especially in the trees or by running water. Any warbler can be spotted by looking for a small, round bodied bird with yellow coloring in its feathers. So while you may not be an ornithologist, taking a minute to see what’s making that noise in the trees on your way to class could have a small impact on your day.

The Bees: 

A sure sign that spring has truly arrived are the buzzing, striped insects hovering from flower to flower. There are hundreds of species of bees in Pennsylvania, but some of the most common that can be found are the European honey bee and bumblebee. In spring, these bees serve an important function in the life cycle of many of our local plants, spreading pollen from flower to flower, ensuring the future for the next generation of plants. Bees aren’t the angry, sting happy insects many fear, but simple busy nectar farmers minding their own business and working hard to feed the hive. If you spot one perched on a flower, wiggling and crawling about, stop to check her out! You can even gently pet them if you like, they don’t mind!

In Summary: 

No matter what kind of semester you’re having, whether you’re feeling the pressure of the course load, or agonizing over the all too quickly approaching finals, you can do one simple thing on your walk to class to help improve the state of your mind. There is plenty of nature and wildlife on campus to help ease your mental health off the edge of your next breakdown. Remember, “stop and smell the roses” may be cliché, but it is apt advice.