Bird Maps
Source:
Grampian National Nature Reserves, teaching activities
OBJECTIVE
- To introduce map making skills
- To learn about the diverse requirements of birds for successful breeding
Time
40 minutes
You will need
- blank maps of your chosen area
- clip boards and pencils
- suggested symbols
Did you know?
Reserve staff at the Grampian National Nature Reserves: St Cyrus, Forvie and Dinnet, often take out school groups and find this activity works well with all ages.
Before the activity
Discuss with the class a day in the life of a bird. What does it need to do, what dangers does it need to look out for and where is it safe? Then broaden this out to a year in the life of a bird, what else does it need to think about? (finding a mate, building a nest, finding food to feed its young as well as itself).
Show the class the maps of the area that they will be visiting, explain what you will be doing during the visit and decide on symbols to represent:
- nesting sites
- feeding areas
- shelter
- predators
- danger areas (pylons, dogs, people, traffic....)
- sources of pollution
The activity
As you move around your chosen area look out for birds, watch what they are doing and mark them on your map, using the chosen symbols. How suitable or dangerous is the area for birds?
Suggested Follow up
Find out whether the area is used by migrant, as well as resident, birds. Find out where the migrants have come from or are going to. Write stories about their hazardous journeys. Make a display showing pictures of the birds and all the interesting facts about them.
Downloads
- BTO bird guide
- RSPB bird guide
- Satellite tracking ospreys, maps and details, from British birds
Curriculum Links
Science - main
Age Range
1, 2, 3