Lesson Overview
This lesson invites students to actively explore the amazing adaptations of Maya the macaw while learning about her journey from living in a cage to a safe, rainforest-like home. Through hands-on, station-based activities, students will:
- Discover Maya’s rescue story and its connection to Tuki, the blue-and-yellow macaw at the Detroit Zoo.
- Investigate the adaptations that help macaws thrive in the wild.
- Compare a macaw’s natural rainforest habitat to life in a human home.
By engaging in imaginative and perspective-taking exercises, students will develop empathy for both wild and human-raised macaws, inspiring them to become wildlife protectors for all animals, committing to a Wildlife Protector promise that is both accessible and achievable.
Key Concepts:
- All animals need food, air, water and space to grow
- Exotic animals do not typically thrive in a home environment
- Learn the needs of animals when considering one as a pet
Grade(s):
- Third – Fifth Grade
Duration:
- 60-minute experience
Skills:
- Compare and contrast
- Identify cause and effect relationships
- Making observations and drawing conclusions
Please note:
We do not bring animals off the Zoo’s grounds. Lessons provide students with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with science skills and tools.
Accessibility:
The Detroit Zoo is committed to serving all guests! If you have an accommodation request related to a disability or other need related to your experience, please contact us at [email protected]. We look forward to supporting you.