Instructify

Is it true that birds evolved from dinosaurs? Can octopi really communicate by changing color? What’s the difference between an ermine and a weasel?

Students will find the answers to all these questions and more in the Natural History Notebooks, created by the Canadian Museum of Nature. The site is organized into eight categories, six featuring modern animals (mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates), and two more for prehistoric creatures, such as dinosaurs. Each category contains an alphabetical list of species. Clicking on a species name will open its Notebook entry. Let’s say you’re interested in the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. The Natural History Notebook entry tells you that it’s a type of woodpecker found in the forests of Canada and the United States. Additional information about the bird’s size, diet and behavior is included, as well as some images and a handy, pre-formatted citation for those students who happen to be writing a research paper.

Of course, I realize that sapsuckers and weasels aren’t for everyone. But with over 250 species represented in the Natural History Notebooks, it’s a safe bet there’s something here to satisfy the curiosity of nature-loving students all across North America. Thank you, Canada! –JIMI RADABAUGH

Natural History Notebooks

Related Stuff:

Test your might in marine science at the Blue Heron Bowl

Start the Cure for Nature Deficit Disorder with A Walk in the Woods

Photo credit: jessicafm on flickr