Irish Animals: The Hunters

Ireland only has around 35 species of land mammal.
They range from tiny Pygmy Shrews to large Deer and Seals.
Here we shall look at just 12 species – the common predators.
In another lesson, we shall look at the herbivores.

Contents of the Lesson

This lesson looks at the following common predators:

  • Fox
  • Badger
  • Stoat
  • Pine Marten
  • Mink
  • Otter
  • Grey Seal
  • Harbour/Common Seal
  • Hedgehog
  • Pygmy Shrew
  • White-toothed Shrew
  • Bats

Irish Fox

We shall learn what they eat and a little bit about how they live and fit into the ecosystem. Short video clips will help bring the animals to life.

Additional topics covered include:

  • Mustelids
  • Hibernation

Badger

A short Glossary discusses the following terms:

  • Invasive species
  • Native species
  • Omnivore
  • Predator
  • Territory

Target Age Group

The Powerpoint slideshow can be used for any age group. Older children can investigate each species in more detail. But even infants will appreciate the different birds.
We have different optional activities to follow the slideshow – colouring in sheets, art activities, crosswords, and more.

Downloadable Resources

Lesson Plan

Download Irish Animals: The Hunters Classroom Presentation (Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation)
Download Irish Animals: The Hunters Notes for Teachers

More Resources

Irish Animals: The Hunters Poster

Colouring in Sheets

Draw your own Mammals
Colouring in Fox
Colouring in Hedgehog
Colouring in Pine Marten