You do not have to travel far to find a habitat. Habitats are all around you! Your backyard is a habitat. A park is a habitat. Even a crack in the sidewalk can be a tiny habitat.
Scientists who study animals are called zoologists. They watch animals in their habitats. They look for animal homes, tracks, and food.
Today you will be a habitat scientist. You will explore a habitat near your home. Look for animals, birds, and bugs. Look for nests, holes, and webs. These are all clues about who lives there!
1. Name one habitat close to your home.
2. What is a scientist who studies animals called?
3. What are two clues that an animal lives somewhere?
You will need: this sheet, a pencil, and outdoor shoes.
Steps:
1. Go outside with an adult to a yard, park, or green space.
2. Stand still and quiet for one minute. Listen and look.
3. Look up in trees, down on the ground, and under leaves.
4. Write or draw every animal or animal clue you find.
5. Do not touch animals or nests. Just observe!
⚠️ Safety: Always explore with an adult. Do not touch wild animals, nests, or bugs. Wash your hands when you come back inside.
Write things from your walk in the correct column.
| Animals I Saw | Animal Clues (nests, holes, tracks) | Animal Foods (seeds, plants, bugs) |
|---|---|---|
| Question | My Observation |
|---|---|
| What habitat did you explore? | |
| Was it sunny, shady, wet, or dry? | |
| What plants grow there? | |
| Where could an animal find water? | |
| Where could an animal hide or shelter? |
Draw the habitat you explored. Label the plants, water, and shelter you saw.
Pick one animal that lives in your local habitat. How does the habitat give it food, water, and shelter?
A bird wants to move into your yard. Design something that would help it live there. It could be a birdhouse, a bird bath, or a feeder. Draw your idea and label the parts.
How does your design help the bird?
What was the most surprising thing you found on your habitat walk?