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Outdoor Activities
-Outdoor Activities Menu - How to See More Wildlife - Nature in My Neighborhood
The Ears of a Fox
 Many animals rely on their sense of hearing to help them survive. Cats and dogs certainly have big ears; the ears of a rabbit are even larger. What other animals can you think of that have a strong sense of hearing?
Predators use their hearing to detect the location of prey. A fox can actually hear a mouse rustling in the grass, and then pounce right on it from ten feet away! Imagine if you were a fox - what would the world sound like?
 There are many interesting sounds that can be heard outside. Mammals, birds, frogs, and even bugs make a variety of noises. Did you know that skunks pound their feet on the ground? Or that porcupines can make a strange wailing sound? Even the trees can "speak", making odd noises as their branches and leaves rustle in the wind.
Try this:
1) What sounds might you hear in your neighborhood? - make a quick list.
2) Go outside and listen to the sounds around your house. Try cupping your hands around your ears (on still days, this can really amplify sound).
3) With your eyes closed, count how many different sounds you can hear. Then, write them down on a notepad.
If you don't know what is making a sound, try describing it. Then see if you can find what is making the sound. Learn how to imitate the sounds of the different birds and animals.
If you do this often, you will know the source of every sound in your neighborhood.
Learn more about nature at our fun Family Wildlife Day programs, where you can see animals and explore the outdoors.
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