Bird Zoo Activity
This activity will require you to go out into the Zoo to find bird examples…get into groups of two
(three if needed)
1. Go to Cypress Swamp or Aviary to find examples of birds – you will need at least 4 different
birds
2. Sketch a picture of each of your birds on white computer paper including their colors (paper is
on the counter)
3. Write down the scientific name and common name of the bird
4. Using the signage (you may have to look for signage in the Aviary) and internet find out
information about each of the birds. (diet, natural habitat, niche, adaptations, etc…)
5. Then answer the following questions about birds…
Questions: Answer these questions on a separate sheet of paper
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List 5 main characteristics of birds
Describe the integumentary system of birds
Draw a feather and label its parts
What does the preen gland do that is important to birds?
How are bird bones different than other vertebrate animals?
Why is the structure of the bones important for birds?
What does the Crop and Gizzard do for the bird digestive system?
Why do birds have such a rapid heart rate?
Explain why it is important for birds to have a high metabolism
How is the excretory system different with birds?
What are the optic lobes? Why are they important?
What is the difference in Precocial and altricial birds?
What are 3 adaptive behaviors that birds have for survival?