First grader publishes book to protect New York City’s wild birds

For many New Yorkers, the city’s nature and wildlife is often ignored; looked over in favor of our proud skyscrapers, shops and restaurants. But when 7-year-old Calvin Huber spotted a robin’s nest in a holly bush on Fifth Avenue, he was captivated.

By carefully observing the mother bird and her eggs, he realized that being a bird in the big city brought specific challenges and predators not experienced elsewhere.

Huber started researching birds more through the books at school and visiting the Wild Bird Center in Central Park. And he didn’t stop there. He started documenting the little robin’s nest, taking both photos and videos.

Now, he’s sharing what he’s learned with other children — and adults — with his new book, “Feathers on Fifth.” The book features a robin family and the dangers they face as birds living in New York City. Proceeds from the book sales will be donated to the National Audubon Society, Wild Bird Fund, environmental education at Manhattan Country School (Huber’s school) and Habitat for Humanity. The book is out now, available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon.