WEBELOS

Naturalist

Balitimore Area Council

Most Webelos-age boys are fascinated by wild creatures. Working on the Naturalist Activity Badge gives a boy a chance to develop his natural curiosity and may begin a lifelong habit of observing things all around him.  We miss a great deal when we do not have some appreciation or knowledge or the wonderful world of nature all around us.

This introduction to the world of nature will prepare them for further adventures in Scouting where they may choose to work on the many nature related merit badges dealing with plants and animals such as Environmental Science and Mammal Study.

If you are not an experienced outdoorsman, bird watcher or amateur naturalist, you may welcome some experienced help. Check with a high school science teacher, state conservation department or an amateur naturalist among your den's parents.

In this part or the country, it is probably best to work on the Naturalist badge during the spring, summer or fall. Most animal life is hard to find in winter and plant life is dormant. It is possible for a boy to earn this badge without ever going into the field, but that would be unfortunate. Schedule trips to areas where wildlife can be found, a park, the woods, or even someone's farm.

Den Activities
Baltimore Area Council

Make an ant farm.

Make an insect study laboratory

Make bird feeders and observe the birds.

Make terrariums.

Start a nature collection

Invite a conservationist to a meeting.

Make a leaf collection.

Take a bird watcher's hike, identify birds.

Collect tadpoles; keep in terrarium; watch them grow.

Study wildlife homes.

Make a list of plants in your area.

Take a hike and look for animal tracks.

Outdoor Activity Tips
Baltimore Area Council

Be sure the boys can identify poisonous plants.

Cover outdoor activities section or Webelos Scout handbook.

Know and practice the Outdoor Code on all field trips.

Resources For Activity Badge
Baltimore Area Council

Boys' Life magazine

Webelos Den Activities

Webelos Scout Book

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