Highly Recommended
in Canadian Review of Materials (CM) 

Gillian Richardson is a freelance writer living in BC.

The viewer is able to witness amazing visuals of the depths of a prairie dog burrow, is taken along on night tracking of the ferrets, allowed to see the ferrets' hunting method of digging for their prey, the kits play-fighting to learn hunting skills, and the engaging 'happy dance' of newly released ferrets. Commentary is provided by Travis Livieri and other biologists involved in the project, including their spontaneous responses to hard-won sighting of their subjects. Frequent scenes of the grassland habitat allow the viewer to get a good sense of the setting, and the challenges inherent in this undertaking.

A 40-page Teacher Resource Guide designed to meet Canadian science curriculum expectations for junior/intermediate grades is available for this DVD documentary. It offers extensive activities and reproducible worksheets to aid in understanding not only the specific details surrounding the reintroduction of the ferret, but also to extend knowledge about habitats and ecosystems that can be applied to other endangered species in Canada. The guide focuses on basic concepts, skills of investigation, science, technology, society and environment, and attitudes.

This DVD and guide package will be a valuable tool for teachers to raise awareness of students to the far-reaching effects of changes and interference on ecosystems.

Download the
Teacher Resource Guide
researched, written, illustrated and designed by educator
Adrienne Lenardon

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Visit CBC Digital Archives for educational activities on
Endangered Species in Canada