Animal Tracks

Service Description

Step into the shoes of a wildlife detective on this exciting hike at Cowles Mountain! Perfect for young explorers, this hike dives into the fascinating world of animal tracks and scat. Kids will learn to identify signs left behind by local animals, uncovering their stories and behaviors. It’s an engaging mix of science, observation, and outdoor adventure. What We’ll Explore: Animal Tracks and Trails: Learn to spot and identify tracks from animals like coyotes, rabbits, and ground squirrels. Discover how the size, shape, and arrangement of tracks reveal a story about the animal’s movement and activity. The Science of Scat: While it may sound gross, scat tells us so much about what animals eat and where they’ve been! We’ll safely explore different types of droppings to uncover clues about the local wildlife. Hands-On Exploration: Kids will use field guides and trail materials to document their findings in journals, making the experience interactive and fun. Seasonal Behavior: Learn how February affects animal activity, from foraging patterns to nesting habits, and connect it all back to the tracks and scat we find along the trail. Key Features of the Lesson Plan: Track Identification: Practice spotting and identifying animal footprints. Scat Science: Learn what animal droppings reveal about diets and ha Educational Focus: We’ll discuss the geological forces that shaped the mountain and the role of granite in the area’s natural history. Kids will also learn about the various plant and animal species that thrive in this rugged environment. Historical Importance: The mountain is named after George Cowles, an early settler in the San Diego area. We’ll talk about the history of exploration and settlement in the region, as well as the cultural significance of the peak. 10 Fun Facts for Kids: 1. Cowles Mountain is the highest point in the city of San Diego at 1,593 feet. 2. On clear days, you can see all the way to Mexico from the summit. 3. The mountain is made of granite, a rock that formed millions of years ago. 4. The summit has a large plaque commemorating George Cowles. 5. The trail is home to California gnatcatchers, a small and rare bird. 6. The area is rich in cholla and prickly pear cacti. 7. Cowles Mountain is part of the Five Peak Challenge in Mission Trails. 8. You might spot a tarantula or a horned lizard along the way. 9. The summit offers views of Lake Murray and the San Diego River. 10. The trail is used by over 100,000 hikers each year!