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Description

List places in your own locality where you can observe wildlife. Tell how you know that there is wildlife present.

Resources

 paper & pen
 camera
 binoculars

Instructions

Aim of Badge
To encourage you to notice your natural surroundings, wildlife and habitats.
This Badge has 17 options of which 4 must be completed.

Instructions
The only way to do this is to get out in your locality and find areas of green or marsh, a river or whatever may be near you. Be it city or farm, there is wildlife!
Use the following guidelines to find and observe the local inhabitants.
• Look for transition areas
Like humans, animals spend much of their time near food and water. Transition areas like estuaries, river banks and shorelines are good candidates for diverse wildlife viewing because they allow access to food and water along with protection from potential predators.
• Consider the time of day and year
While some animals are active at all times of day, many birds and mammals choose dawn or dusk to feed and travel.
• Know your target species
If you are looking to view a species of wildlife, learn about their habits and food supply. For example, don’t look for bears in winter.
• Watch for animal scat, trails, tracks, runways and other signs
Tracks and other signs of animal passage will tell you a lot about wildlife behaviour. They may also increase your chances of spotting the real thing.
• Bring the right equipment
A powerful pair of binoculars is a must-have for anyone interested in spotting wildlife up close. Also bring a camera using no flash, and a notebook & pen.
• Stay still or move slowly and quietly
Humans are large and smelly enough that most wildlife know we are coming before we even get close to viewing them.
• Listen to the other wildlife in the area
Wild animals interact daily, often with dramatic results.
• Practice your animal and bird calls

Acknowledgement/Source: How to Spot Animals in the Wild by Patrick Walshe

Attachments/Template needed for activity? No

Tags

• Guides
• IGG Interest Badge Guides Nature Observer
• Nature
• Wildlife

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