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 herbivores.
In another lesson, we shall look at the predators.
Contents of the Lesson
This lesson looks at the following common herbivores:
- Red Deer
- Sika Deer
- Fallow Deer
- Muntjac
- Wild Goat
- Rabbit
- Irish Hare
- Red Squirrel
- Grey Squirrel
- Brown Rat
- House Mouse
- Wood Mouse
- Bank Vole
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:
- What is a mammal?
- Wolves
- Squirrels and pine martens
- What eats rats and mice
A short Glossary discusses the following terms:
- Invasive species
- Native species
- Omnivore
- Predator
- Cull
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
Irish Animals: Herbivores Classroom Presentation (Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation)
Teachers Notes