Nature Scavenger Hunt: Explore and Discover!

Let’s Go on a Scavenger Hunt!

A nature scavenger hunt is a fun way to explore the outdoors while learning more about the natural world. We’re going to make a list of items to find and then talk about why each one is important. Grab a notebook or a phone, and let’s get started!

Step 1: Create Your List

Make a list of natural items you can find in your area. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• A Leaf with a Unique Shape
• A Pinecone
• A Flower
• A Feather
• A Smooth Rock
• A Bug or Insect
• Birdsong (Listen for It!)
• A Tree with Rough Bark

You can customize this list based on where you are—whether in a forest, park, or even your backyard!

Step 2: Discuss the Role of Each Item

Now that you’ve created your list, take a moment to discuss the role of each item in nature:

• Leaves: How do they help trees? What happens when they fall to the ground?
• Pinecones: Why do some trees produce pinecones, and what’s inside them?
• Flowers: What role do flowers play in helping plants grow and spread?
• Feathers: How do birds use feathers to fly and keep warm?
• Rocks: How does water or wind change rocks over time?
• Insects: What do bugs do in the ecosystem? Why are they important?
• Birdsong: How do birds use their songs to communicate with each other?

Step 3: Start the Hunt

With your list in hand, head outdoors and see how many items you can find! Make sure to observe without disturbing nature—look, listen, and learn as you go. Take photos of your finds or write down what you discovered.

Step 4: Reflect on Your Findings

Once you’ve completed your scavenger hunt, take a moment to talk about what you found. Were there any surprises? Did you learn anything new about the role each item plays in the ecosystem? How does everything in nature work together?

Why It’s Important

A nature scavenger hunt is a fantastic way to connect with the environment and appreciate the natural world around us. It helps develop observation skills and a deeper understanding of how everything in nature is connected.