Students delight in search for animal tracks in the NatureHood

The great outdoors is even more thrilling when you know who or what came before you. And that’s exactly what Prince Edward County students are now learning in the Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area.

Fascinating nature walks designed for students in Grades 2, 4 and 6 are being hosted by Cheryl Chapman, Wild Thing educator, accompanied by Cheryl Anderson, vice-president with the South Shore Joint Initiative, her rescue dachshund Leo, and John Sanders, Wild Thing assistant educator.

“Searching for animal tracks is the theme of this two-part program. The curriculum is specifically designed to engage kids in learning about the survival techniques of species that overwinter in the South Shore Key Biodiversity Area,” said Chapman. “Hibernation, migration, dormancy, predators and prey are just some of the topics we cover. Students learn how to walk like a fox and take part in role-playing games to better understand habits and habitats of resident species.”

Drawing on Indigenous knowledge and philosophies, the animal tracks experiential program is also designed to teach children respect for the natural world.

Bundled up for whatever weather they might encounter, students make use of laminated track images to identify the tracks of area species.

“It’s a deer track!,” a Grade 2 participant shared. “No, wait. Deer don’t have little toes, and there are claws, this is not a deer!”

Another student exclaimed, “I can’t believe all the tracks. I thought the animals were all sleeping in the winter.”

Another keen youth noted, “I got to create my own Animal Tracks ID booklet. I’m going to use it to keep track of animals in my backyard this winter.”

Meanwhile, participating teachers praised the South Shore Joint Initiative’s Wild Thing program, noting “Educational opportunities to get outdoors and experience nature aren’t always easy to organize, or find, during the winter months.

“The program provides opportunities year-round for students to come face-to-face with the rare and fragile beauty of the local environment in meaningful ways.”

SSJI’s Anderson stated the fun and learning is all made possible thanks to a grant from Nature Canada and the Government of Canada – Environment and Climate Change.

“We’re thrilled that Nature Canada’s NatureHood program is funding this free, grade-appropriate, curriculum-based outdoor education opportunity for local elementary students. Importantly, because transportation to and from the South Shore was included, the grant ensured there were no barriers to access for all participants.”

Running throughout January as well as in March, the Animal Tracks program is helping students study animals and how they adapt to survive harsh winter cold and snow. Elementary teachers who are interested in attending a March session can contact Cheryl Chapman at wild.thing@ssji.ca

Visit ssji.ca to learn more about upcoming Wild Thing and other programs for all ages.