Wild Republic Audubon Birds is Beautiful! I bought them for myself, and use them occasionally during Circle Time. Learning about local wildlife (instead of only the animals from the jungle and and savannah, as is so often the case) is great for children to develop a sense of place.
I use them individually with songs or chants about the birds, and together as a mindful listening activity (after listening to the birds once or twice, I hide the birds, and squeeze one. The children listen carefully and recall which bird make that call).
It promotes so much learning, and the kids love it!
