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Outdoor activity

Robbie’s Nighttime Clue Hunt

Do this with a grown-up at dusk or from inside near a window. Bring paper and a pencil, then look for signs that a nighttime animal might use the yard. You may notice a tree cavity, fallen berries, nuts under a tree, muddy paw prints after rain, or a covered trash can. Draw a simple map of the yard. Mark where Robbie might find food, where he might hide, and where people should keep pet food and trash secure. You do not need to find a real raccoon to do this activity. The goal is to notice how a yard can be shared safely by people, pets, and wildlife. Then answer these questions: Where could Robbie find a safe place to sleep? What food should stay inside at night? Why should trash cans stay closed? What could Robbie find under a pecan tree? Why should dogs leave raccoons alone? What would you do if you saw a raccoon acting strangely? Grandma’s reminder: “Robbie may have a mask, but the real crime is Scott bringing up that tree hole every day.”

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