Nature Journaling #197: How Do Animals Survive Cold Weather?

Nature journals are a fun way to pass the time. To many Great Parks nature interpreters, they are a tool that fosters meaningful connections with the natural world.

Want to create a nature journal with your child? Grab some paper and a pencil, step out the front door and use the prompt below. We’ll publish a new prompt daily, so be sure to check back here for more!

The bright red feathers of male northern cardinal contrast against the snow in Winton Woods.

Today’s Prompt: How Do Animals Survive Cold Weather?

The weather is turning colder, the hours of daylight are getting smaller and the winds are getting stronger – all signs that winter is upon us. This week, we will begin to take a look at what animals and plants do to survive these changes.

The first thing to start to pay attention to is the temperature. What is today’s temperature? How would you prepare for a walk outside today? Pick your favorite animal and see if you can spot it along a walk. If you do, observe it for a few minutes. Can you see any ways that it is prepared to deal with the colder weather? What are those ways? If you didn’t see your favorite animal on your walk, where do you think it may have gone? Do you think it is still around or did it leave because of the colder temperatures?

A Few Tips for Success:

  • Work with your child’s attention span. If they aren’t enjoying an activity, allow them to choose a new one. If they are highly focused, give them plenty of time to continue the observations.
  • Allow creativity. Children often have interests that go beyond the questions we pose. Create a safe environment so they can create and explore on their terms.
  • Journal along with your child. You never know what you may discover and it’s a great way to spend some quality time together.
  • Try activities at different times of day. Observations may change with time and temperature.

Want to try your hand at different nature journaling topics? Click here for more prompts.