Become a nature watcher! Learn to tell the difference between different types of fish and animals by learning about animal species. Nature is all around you – no matter where you live! You will explore your natural surroundings through this project, including conservation and wildlife management.
Experiences and learning opportunities includes:
- habitat management
- wildlife biology and ecology
- hunting and fishing
- wildlife watching
Resources
- Project Information Sheet
- Aldo Leopold Teacher Packet Activity
- Educator’s Resource to Texas Mammal Skulls and Skins
- Hunter Skills Trail Manual
- Hunter Education Repairing 3-D Decoys
- Texas State Parks Youth Group Annual Pass Application -TPWD
- Fish Study Guide
- Wildlife ID Guide
- Wildlife Tracks Fact Sheet
- Activity: Fish Halves
- Activity: Know Your Dominant Eye
- Activity: Skill of Observation
- Activity: Dryland Tournament
- Activity: Tying the Thief Knot
Events and Activities
Click here for state-wide event calendar!
Natural Resources Photography Contest
The Texas 4-H Natural Resources Photography Contest encourages observation within specific Natural Resources project areas and allows youth to demonstrate skills learned in the area of photography, including the use of photographic equipment and processing of photographs. This contest provides another opportunity to showcase the photographic work of 4-H members in all age divisions.
Roundup Wildlife Challenge
The 4-H Roundup Wildlife Challenge covers material found within five 4-H Natural Resources projects: Wildlife Habitat Education Project (WHEP), the hunting & wildlife discipline in shooting sports, entomology, forestry, and sportfishing. Contestants will explore all five of these projects while preparing for the challenge.
Wildlife Habitat Education Project State Contest
The Texas 4-H Wildlife Habitat Education Project (WHEP) State Contest covers information and follows rules and procedures in the current Texas 4-H WHEP Manual below.
- WHEP State Contest Information
- Texas WHEP Manual – Use this resource to prepare for the State Contest and to learn more about Texas wildlife.
- National WHEP – Use this link to access the National WHEP Manual and to learn more about this event and how to study for it.
WHEP Workshops will be held periodically around the state for adult leaders and youth to learn the material and practice the application of knowledge and skills. These will be registered through 4HOnline and found on that calendar as well as the Natural Resources Program Activity and Event Schedule found on this website under Resources.
Stock Show Wildlife Contests
All stock show contests registrations are made through the local county AgriLife Extension offices.
- Texas Stock Show Wildlife Contest Study Resource (State Fair, Fort Worth Stock Show, Houston Stock Show)
Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center Fish Art Contest
The Fish Art Contest sparks the imaginations of students and provides valuable lessons about fish and the importance of conserving Texas’ aquatic resources. Art, science, and creative writing foster a connection to the outdoors and inspire the next generation of stewards.
WHEP
Volunteer Resources
Project Photo Gallery
