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
Natural Resources statewide events calendar – click here.
Resources
- Project Information Sheet
- Aldo Leopold Teacher Packet Activity
- Educator’s Resource to Texas Mammal Skulls and Skins
- Fish Study Guide -TPWD
- Fish Halves Activity
- Hunter Skills Trail Manual
- Repairing 3-D Decoys for Hunter Education
- Skill of Observation Activity
- Texas 4-H Forestry Invitational Handbook
- Texas State Parks Youth Group Annual Pass Application -TPWD
- Wildlife ID Guide
- Wildlife Tracks Fact Sheet -TPWD
Contests and Activities
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. Visit the State Roundup webpage to learn more.
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 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.