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An offering of Penn State

Herps, Habitats, and Hawks

Unravel the mysteries of animal adaptations and habitats

Through gathering data and seeking clues along the trails at Shaver’s Creek, students can discover where animals live, and why. Participants will observe our live captive animals, then use the information to go outside and locate the appropriate habitat of a frog, a snake, a turtle, and a bird of prey.

Maximum group size: Fifty students
Program length: Groups should be able to spend a minimum of four hours at Shaver’s Creek.
When offered: April, May, September, and October
Grades: Appropriate for grades three through eight

Cost: $7 per student, plus $7 per additional adult over the number of required chaperones (required chaperones are free)

Students unravel the mysteries of animal adaptations and habitats. Gathering data and seeking clues along the trails at Shaver’s Creek, students discover where animals live and why. Participants use information learned while observing our live captive animals to go outdoors and locate the appropriate habitat for a frog, a snake, a turtle, and a bird of prey.

Guided nature center visit: Rotating through stations in small groups, students get an "up close and personal" look at a bird of prey, toad or frog, snake, and turtle. Participants can ask questions, touch animal-related props, and observe live specimens. They learn about and see species-specific adaptations needed for survival.

Lunch: Bring your own lunch.

Discovery walk: After lunch, students will briefly discuss the habitat needs of their animal—a herp (frog, turtle, or snake) or a hawk. Then, following clues, they will locate an appropriate habitat. Students will explore the habitat by participating in a scavenger hunt, and document the habitat with a sketch.

 

Many of the photographs included throughout the site are © Sven Zellner. For a listing, please contact us.
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The Pennsylvania State University | This page was last modified on Wednesday, July 09, 2008