Summer camp is an annual rite of passage for many children, as it provides them with an opportunity to make new friends, explore outside the classroom setting and marvel at the miracles of nature. Learning about the world around them is a great way to connect children with science and the creatures that live in their backyards.

As a way to teach students about one of those backyard friends, R&S Landscaping held a "How to Attract Hummingbirds" workshop in July at Ridgewood Day Camp. Master Gardener Julie Watson and Assistant Project Manager Brittney Hunter presented a lesson about hummingbirds to approximately 100 first and second grade girls. Such topics as migration, feeding habits, flowers, colors hummingbirds prefer and feeders.

"It's inspiring for us to have the opportunity to teach children about something as remarkable as hummingbirds and to see the look of awe and amazement in their faces," said Robert Schucker, president of R&S Landscaping. "We hope this lesson will set them on a path of understanding and appreciating science and nature and the world around them."

Additionally, the R&S team provided three small Red Salvia plants, which the girls planted in pots provided by Ridgewood Whole Foods. The campers took the plants home to try and attract hummingbirds to their own yards.

If successful, they can participate in R&S Landscaping's Summer Hummingbird Photo Contest, which gives local children and adults the opportunity to submit photographs of these amazing winged creatures.

Until Aug. 31, individuals can submit photographs snapped of hummingbirds in their natural habitat for a chance to win the first place prize which is the free installation of a perennial bush that will attract butterflies. The second place winner will receive a pair of gardening books that detail perennial care and garden design.

Submissions, which should include a name, town and small story behind the picture, can be sent via e-mail to info@rscape.com. All submissions will be posted on the R&S Landscaping's Facebook page, and members of the R&S team will select the best photograph. The winners will be announced in early September, and the winning photographs will be posted on the company's Web site, www.rscape.com.

R&S Landscaping is recognized for its efforts to educate local communities and increase public awareness as it relates to protecting the environment and making the world a healthier and safer place. For more information, visit www.rscape.com. For a free landscaping consultation, call (201) 447-6205 or e-mail service@rscape.com.