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Animal Architects

Activity

Building Structures Like Nature's Engineers

Research two types of animal engineers and the structures they make. Then build a replica of that structure. For example, build a dam that can contain water (try a creek, backyard or bathtub), dig prairie dog tunnels, or make a gorilla nest!

Science Seed

Beavers change and direct the flow of rivers all over North America. They keep the water in place so that it doesn’t rush downstream too quickly, and their work is vital to the health of riparian areas (freshwater wetlands near rivers and streams). The engineering beavers benefit their habitat and many other species of animals and plants by controlling the flow of water, keeping critical freshwater in the ecosystem.

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earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

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join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

This project was made possible by HEB.