New Zealand Nature Heroes
27 January 2020
A new book is set to inspire and empower New Zealand kids to be naturalists and conservationists – including being pest detectives.
Author Gillian Chandler wrote New Zealand Nature Heroes to encourage children to become citizen scientists, actively engaged with their local environment.
The book emphasises the importance of observation in nature conservation and suggests varied activities that children can undertake for themselves.
Detecting pest animals is one such activity. There are simple instructions on how to make tracking tunnels and chew cards, with a link to our Pest Detective website for help on identifying the animal signs observed.
The handbook is aimed at children in the 8-14 age range. It tells the stories of 15 people – the ‘nature heroes’ – who have in the past or are currently working to protect and understand New Zealand's natural world. The heroes are described in such a way that kids can readily identify with them and be inspired to make a positive difference themselves, by getting involved.
Find out more:
> Radio New Zealand interview with author Gillian Chandler
> Available in book shops around New Zealand. and from publishers Potton and Burton