Educational Materials

Biodiversity of the Llano Estacado

Visit the "Biodiversity of the Llano Estacado" exhibit at the Museum, and take along the appropriate question sheet below (printed sheets are also available in the gallery to pick up). Explore the exhibit to learn about the wildlife and habitats of this region and to find the answers to the questions, then use the QR code in the gallery (or the links below) to check your answers!

High School Worksheet

High School Answer Key

Middle School Worksheet

Middle School Answer Key

Grades 3-5 Worksheet

Grades 3-5 Answer Key

Tiny and Mighty Creatures

Visit the Museum to see a display case containing more than 100 specimens of bugs, beetles, butterflies, bees, and more, from all around the world!

Click here to learn more about these “tiny and mighty” creatures! 

The Mammals of Texas

Be sure to check out the online version of “The Mammals of Texas” (2016) to learn all about the mammals of this state! Go to the Home Page, then scroll down to “Click here to begin” to start reading and learning!

Build Your Own "Bug Hotel" and learn about the invertebrate diversity in your backyard!

This would be a great activity to do with the kids!  One reason to make a bug hotel is to help increase backyard biodiversity, and as a bonus, you will learn about and grow to appreciate the amazing world of bugs and insects.  It is also a great way to upcycle some everyday items!  

View this video for a demonstration, and check out this Fact Sheet about common backyard bugs to help you identify potential visitors.

Instructions:

First, gather your materials for the hotel; as seen in the video, we used a recycled green beans box for the base of the bug hotel, but it was soon damaged by heavy rain.  So, we recommend using a plastic outer container, which will withstand the weather and can be reused!  Add in smaller cardboard boxes to create compartments.  In the compartments, place natural items, like dried leaves and sticks, to create mini habitats.  You can use hot glue to secure the bigger pieces first, then loosely place the other natural items in the compartments.  Place your bug hotel outside where you normally find bugs, preferably in an area that doesn’t get too hot.  Give it some time, checking daily (morning and evening will be best), and hopefully some bugs will start making their homes in the “hotel”!  Remember to look with your eyes and avoid touching, because you don’t want to disturb the residents!  

Just for fun

NSRL logo coloring page – Color the NSRL logo to match the real design, or come up with your own unique color combinations!

Bat cookies and Spider Donuts – For Halloween or for any time, these "food crafts" are easy and fun treats to make!

Bird Nest Treats - Another fun and easy recipe, celebrate Spring or Easter with these cute bird nest treats!

Beaver Dam treats - Make these tasty and easy treats, while learning fun facts about the ecological importance of beavers!