Animal Habitats and Their Management Lesson Plan

Grades: 5 - 8
Length of Program: 1 - 1 ½ hours
Time of Year: Year round
Preferred Adult/ Student Ratio: 1/10

Summary:

How is it possible for a large number of animals to co-exist in a small space? After a quick review of what components need to be present for quality habitat, our Naturalists will take you on a hike around the Horicon Marsh Goose Pond to find out what animals reside in Horicon Marsh. Through discussion, your class will learn how Wildlife Managers work with the land so everyone can co-exist together in this relatively small place.

Teacher Preparation:

Review components of a habitat

Academic Standards Addressed:

Environmental Education
B1.8.5 Give examples of human impact on various ecosystems
B1.8.8 Explain interactions among organisms or populations of organisms
B1.8.10 Explain how humans shape and control the environment by creating knowledge and developing new technologies
B2.8.11 Identify careers related to natural resources and environmental concerns

Special Instructions:

Please make sure students are dressed appropriately

Materials:

• Animal Pelts of Marsh Mammals

Procedure:

Take the class on a hike around the goose pond. Talk about the different habitat types and the animals that utilize Along the way, pull out mammal pelts and discuss the life histories, adaptations, and positions in the food web of these animals. Discuss the purpose of wildlife management and how and why it is used at Horicon Marsh.

Wrap-up:

Talk about other agencies/ organizations that help create and preserve wildlife habitat. Ask the class to brainstorm ways they can positively impact wildlife populations.

Contact Information

Bill Volkert
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area
N7728 Hwy 28
Horicon, WI 53032
(920) 387-7860

Questions for Wildlife Management