San Dieguito River Valley ConservancySan Dieguito
River Valley Conservancy
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Animal Tracking

a. Wildlife Corridors & Animal Movement

Students will learn how animals move through the natural environment and be introduced to the concept of “wildlife corridors.” They will then attempt to make their way through a simulated corridor and experience firsthand how human disturbance disturbs the natural movement of animals and why conserving open space is important for their survival.

b. Animal Tracks & Signs

Animals are all around us, even though we may not see them every day. Learning how to recognize the clues and signs they leave behind can provide citizen scientists with useful information on biodiversity and allow them to document patterns in animal movement. Using track replicas and field guides, students will learn how to identify tracks and scat of some of the common animals found within the watershed.

c. Tracking Surveys

Once the new Citizen Scientists are trained in identifying birds, they will head out on the trails to practice their identification skills. Following protocols developed by the San Diego Tracking Team (SDTT), they will conduct their very own Citizen Science survey and collect data to determine which species are found on site and how they are moving through the surrounding habitat.

OPTION: “Habitat Bingo” may be used as an alternative activity for younger students. In this activity, students are given Bingo cards filled with various native animals and habitats. Students are led on a hike and work together to locate and identify tracks and sign of the animals shown on their cards.