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Go Bug Hunting with a Backyard Safari

Enjoying Colorado Outdoor Spaces: Go Bug Hunting with a Backyard Safari

Date: 7/25/11 | Season: Summer

Enjoying Colorado Outdoor Spaces: Go Bug Hunting with a Backyard Safari

Think back to when you were a young kid and how much fun you had poking around in the backyard, hunting for bugs, examining interesting wiggly creatures and learning about the world in a simple and entertaining way.

Get your little ones excited about nature and the Earth through fun and games with bugs and other creatures. The more your kids know and learn about other creatures, the more they will respect and appreciate them. Your safari can take place anywhere outside--in the backyard, your neighborhood park or when out camping.

3 Reasons to Create a Backyard Safari

  • Learn more about the world we live in
  • Respect for nature and the creatures on planet Earth
  • Have fun


There are all kinds of things to do involving bugs and other creatures:

  • Try to find different creatures – photograph them or draw the differences in a sketchbook
  • See how many different creatures you can spot
  • Bug races – guess which bug moves more quickly to a selected location
  • Name that bug contest – give clues, have kids guess which bug you are describing


When on your safari, be kind to nature. Make sure not to take anything that should clearly stay where it belongs. Do not harm any creatures or their habitats. Everything in nature should be respected--trees, plants, bugs, fish, creatures and even rocks. Leaving the area as you found it will ensure others will get to enjoy it and explore there as well.

Supplies for Your Backyard Safari

  • Magnifying glass
  • Proper clothing (sneakers, long pants, hat)
  • Flashlight
  • Compass
  • Bag for trash (make sure to leave any area cleaner than you found it)
  • Net
  • Jar
  • Sticks


Make sure to bring water on your safari adventure. Bug investigating can you make you thirsty! If you are going to be on your safari for a few hours make sure to pack some snacks as well. It’s important to keep your energy up for all of the research you will be doing!

This summer, get outside, enjoy nature and investigate the magic of our planet!