Becoming a Tree Detective

Melissa, an educator at the California Academy of Sciences, guides viewers to become 'tree detectives' by observing and documenting evidence of animals living in trees. The video outlines the tools needed, such as a nature journal, and explains four categories of evidence: animal traces, nesting, trace, and nibble evidence. Melissa conducts a field investigation, finding various animal traces, and encourages viewers to document their observations and continue exploring nature.

What is the primary mission of becoming a tree detective?

• To measure the height of trees

• To collect leaves from trees

• To find out what animals live in trees

• To identify different types of trees

What is the first thing you need to become a tree detective?

• A guidebook

• Powers of observation

• A camera

• A magnifying glass

What should be included on the first page of a nature journal?

• A list of tree species

• A map of the area

• Important information like who, what, where, and when

• A drawing of the tree

Which of the following is NOT a category of evidence to look for?

• Animal traces

• Nesting evidence

• Weather patterns

• Nibble evidence

What is an example of animal traces?

• Fallen leaves

• Tree bark

• Feathers and fur

• Bird songs

What might nesting evidence include?

• Animal footprints

• Pieces of a hive

• Fallen branches

• Tree sap

What did the narrator find at the base of the tree during the exploration?

• A butterfly

• A squirrel

• A group of slugs

• A bird's nest

What should you do if you don't have a tree nearby to observe?

• Collect soil samples

• Observe the sky

• Wait until you find a tree

• Look in a bush or under a rock

What is a benefit of making science sketches?

• They help identify tree species

• They are a fun activity

• They are required for scientific reports

• They help remember observations over time

What is suggested to do with your nature journal after the initial observation?

• Discard it

• Use it for other subjects

• Continue making sketches and revisit the tree

• Share it with friends