Diversity – Living and Non-living Things

Conservation Challenge

We must consider many perspectives when developing conservation plans.
People, animals, and plants all depend on the health of the forest. The endangered giant panda, and other temperate-forest plants and animals, depend on the forest for their survival.

Local people, as part of the forest ecosystem, depend on it for social, cultural, and ecological values and for their livelihoods; scientists study giant pandas and their habitat to help ensure their future in the wild; reserve managers and staff patrol protected areas and carry out conservation goals; policy makers use scientific research findings to create legislation to protect wildlife and wild lands; state and local governments try to balance the economic needs of local people
and the ecological needs of wildlife.

As consumers and citizens of the biosphere, our needs, choices, and patterns of consumption make us an important part of this equation. We can apply our knowledge and creativity to help create solutions.

Giant pandas are native to central China. One of the best ways to help protect giant pandas is to protect their habitats. In "Habitat Adventure: Panda Challenge!", you will help make decisions about a fictional forest reserve. You will use binoculars, field guides, a camera, and other tools, as well as talk to local people to help you make the best decisions.

“Core Areas” are the main habitat areas for plants and animals. Use binoculars and collect plant samples to help designate a core area in the reserve.

Count “Carnivores” to assess habitat health. Photograph wildlife and identify animal tracks to count the carnivores in the reserve.

“Corridors” are tracts of land that connect core areas, allowing animal movement between core areas. Use a camera trap and identify animal sounds to help pick the best habitat corridor for the reserve.

“Communities” are an important part of the equation. Help balance the needs of animals and people who live in and around the reserve. Identify valuable plants and set up a beehive for an alternative income source.

Pupils can use their journals to record their choices and reflections when playing the Habitat Adventure: Panda Challenge Game.

Up for an extra challenge? Go to Smithsonian's National Zoological Park here.

Have Fun!!