Owl Class went on the first trip of the year to Gilbert White's House, in Selbourne, on Thursday. A short coach journey later we were in the amazing Field Study Centre. Our first activity took us into Gilbert White's House, where we learned how different animals adapted to survive in their habitats. We learned that adaptation was centered around animals' need to Feed, Breed and Hide in order to survive and we looked at how albatross and penguins do this. We spent the rest of the morning exploring the meadow and woodland outside (luckily the rain had stopped but we were glad we had our wellies) to look for clues of local animal life. We found lots of evidence of badgers, digging for worms and a few paths in the grass that foxes may have used. After a quick lunch we split into our four groups and went searching for much smaller wildlife. Using an array of scientific equipment (including soup spoons) we looked though hedges, under wood piles and in leaves with our 'bug bingo' cards to discover find specific bugs by their characteristics. While three groups were doing this, the other group went to a hide and watched for birds. We were able to spot blue tits and sparrows, but sadly no buzzards. We finished the day with Fiona reading a segment of Gilbert White's journal. We had to listen carefully and match the creature to the local plant that it eats (or its prey eats).

We then travelled back to school, tired and happy in the lovely sunshine.

Please find the video link here. https://youtu.be/VJ2dRztOxAk