• Bird Investigation: During this investigation, students use binoculars and field guides to identify different types of birds that are present during their field trip to Upper Newport Bay. As students take a hike to identify birds, they classify them as water birds or land birds. They then compare their findings with a graph showing how the abundance of these birds change by season.
  
  
• Wetlands and Migration Investigation: In this investigation, students build a model of a wetland to explore the seen and unseen resources it provides for birds and other animals. Using the model as a foundation, they then participate in a short game to further explore the importance of wetlands for migrating birds throughout the year. During the game, they explore how urbanization has caused a decline in the available wetland habitats and affected wildlife, particularly birds. Students then reflect on the importance of protecting places like Upper Newport Bay.
  
  
• Plant Investigation: In this investigation, students make observations of plants found at Upper Newport Bay and describe the types of plants that thrive in a wetland and coastal sage scrub habitat. Using field guides, students draw and label the plants they observe, describing the physical features such as leaves, stems, and flowers.​

View the Resources pages for pre/post information.                          ​

Site Details:​​
Location: Muth Interpretive Center - Click here for a map to the site.  The address is on the map.