In this short activity, participants will understand how the physical appearance of animals found in nature can determine their chances of survival.
Materials
- Ribbons or strings of various lengths, thicknesses, and colours
Framing
The survival of the many species relies on being well camouflaged, or blending into their environment.
Instructions
- In a large area, hide different colored “snakes” using the various ribbons. The ribbons should either blend in very well with the environment or stick out brightly.
- The participants are birds of prey looking for a snake dinner. Have the group search out the predefined area to look for snakes and collect the ones they find.
- After a few minutes, bring the class back together.
Modify
- Get creative and think up your own modifications.
Safety
- Ensure that the outdoor space has defined boundaries or you have clearly outline them to your participants.
Wrap-up
Discuss which snakes were the easiest to find and which were the hardest. Likely the easiest to find were the brightly –coloured snakes, and the most difficult were a dull green or brown, matching the grass or trees. Because of natural selection and camouflaging, the snakes that were the most difficult to find have the best chance of surviving and producing offspring.
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