Purpose: An important part of science is the ability to observe and take notes.
Objectives: Observe wildlife in order to appreciate ecology and to improve your observation skills.
Preparation: Print this observation form
Activity: Go to either a park or to a wildlife area (not zoos) where there is little outside disturbances (such as cars or people). Then sit quietly and watch an animal (bird, mammal, reptile, amphibian, etc.) for about one to two hours taking notes (using the observation form) of everything you see and hear. The animal should not be a domesticated (swan, pet, etc.)
Note: This could be done individually or in groups of two or three. Groups of more than three can make the activity difficult
Hints: You may not see any activity at first, but after a while things will start to appear. Do not forget to note the physical environment, plants, and insects. It is also important to look at the interactions between organisms.