The eminent Ecologist E.O. Wilson estimates that we are losing 3 species every single hour. Not since the time of the massive extinction of the dinosaurs have so many species disappeared so quickly. One of the principal reasons is habitat loss. During this program, we’ll explore why many of our local species are in decline. For example, because there are less natural cavities in snags (old dead trees are removed as a hazard), Tree Swallow numbers have declined by 1 percent per year between 1966 and 2010, a 36% loss in population. We want to empower students to make a difference. That is why we’ll be spending time during this program providing students with direct action to enhance schoolyard and backyard habitats. We’ll be building one or more of the following: bird boxes, butterfly houses and bat houses. Please give us plenty of advance notice if you would like to select this program.
Science Curriculum Links *
Biology
- Grade 9, Academic – Sustainable Ecosystems
- Grade 9, Applied – Sustainable Ecosystems and Human Activity
Environmental Science Curriculum Links *
University/College Preparation
- Grade 11 – Scientific Solutions to Contemporary Environmental Challenges
Workplace Preparation
- Grade 11 – Human Impact on the Environment
Season Availability
Fall, Spring
Program Location
Kawartha Outdoor Education Centre
Douro-Dummer, ON
* Curriculum links for this program are based on "The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 1-8: Science and Technology"
Feel free to contact us about modifying programs to suit older or younger students.