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For example, when making observations, they may use a microscope to see small things up close, a scale to measure weight, or a thermometer to determine changes in temperature.
At Denver Zoo, animal care staff sometimes use a tool called an ethogram to help them study animal behavior. Understanding animal behavior is important, so keepers and veterinarians know when an animal is happy and healthy, and recognize signs when it may not be feeling well.
Learn how to use an ethogram from Caitlin, a Denver Zoo Educator, and then do your OWN research to learn more about our newest greater one-horned rhino, Joona!
Wondering how to incorporate this into a virtual lesson?
Learners will practice science observation skills in the study of animal behavior, using an ethogram. Learners will discover how this tool helps Denver Zoo animal care staff to monitor the well-being of animals.
How does Denver Zoo ensure the health and well-being of the animals in its care?
Learners will:
Note: This activity may be modified for younger audiences by removing the interval component. Use this simplified ethogram datasheet to collect all observations for a total of 3 minutes.
Observe Joona in the video below. At 30 second intervals, make a tally mark in the column of the behavior Joona’s doing at that moment. Continue to observe and record behaviors on the ethogram for 3 minutes.
Review your research; count the total number of tally marks in each behavior column. What do you notice about the animal’s behavior?
This activity can be simplified for younger audiences by removing the interval component. Use this simplified ethogram datasheet to collect observations for 3 minutes.
Tell us about your experience with Denver Zoo's Virtual Classroom.
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