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The New Explorers
Flight for Survival
In this episode of The New Explorers, host Bill Kurtis joins scientist in their quest to help save the legendary bald eagle. The symbol of the American nation, the bald eagle has faced near extinction in recent years, but scientists today have devised ways to ensure the survival of the species. Using the latest technology, and some old fashioned common sense, scientists have enabled the eagles to reproduce enough to make the species safe once more. Flight for Survival would be useful for classes on Science, Biology, Ornithology, and Technology. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
Vocabulary
Discussion Questions
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For a while, the bald eagle was in danger of becoming extinct. What does this mean? How do species become extinct?
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What is humankind's role in the process of extinction? What is nature's role? Name some species that are now extinct.
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Author and scientist Rachel Carson warned of the devastating effects of DDT. How did DDT affect eagles' eggs?
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What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency?
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Scientists have used many methods to ensure the reproduction of bald eagles, such as artificial insemination. What is artificial insemination? How has it helped in maintaining the eagle population?
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What are some other methods scientists use to increase the reproduction of eagles?
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Why have scientists been so successful in repopulating areas with eagles?
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What does the term "eagle eye" mean? Were do you think we get the term?
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The federal government is trying to protect bald eagles. How are they doing this?
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What is the symbolic value of the eagle to the United States?
Extended Activities
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Read Rachel Carson's Silent Spring and discuss how her warnings have impacted environmental protection.
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Research the growth and development of bald eagles and create a poster or chart that illustrates an eagle's stages from birth to adulthood.
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