Saturday, September 26, 2009

Kids' Internet Resources - Animals

I have a new project at work that I'm actually super-excited about: I get to re-do my library's webliography of awesome sites on the Web for kids. So basically I'm getting paid to play on the Internet for hours and spend time surfing the sites with the most awesome graphics, most fun games, and with the funkiest themes.

In all seriousness, this is an important job. After all, where's the first place many students today think to turn to when they want to know something? It's not often books anymore - it's the Internet. With trillions and trillions of websites out there, it good to have a few really awesome ones right at your fingertips. And just like with books, librarians really should be one of the first ones to go to when you're having trouble navigating the web and finding the information you're looking for.

To celebrate one of the most awesome side duties a librarian could have, I thought I'd share a few of the cool websites that I've stumbled upon. This week's theme: Animals!

Animal Planet
This is the website for the popular TV station Animal Planet. The link will take you directly to the portal for the site's Wild Animals section, with all sorts of pictures and information about the cool animals we share our world with. Check out the Animals A-Z list, as well as the Endangered Animals Guide. If you explore the website, you'll also find games, videos, and even some information on pet care.

ASPCA Animaland
The ASPCA (the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has a really great website for kids who want to learn more about how to properly care for a pet. Definitely a great resource for families who are considering acquiring a new pet, this site also spotlights real pets and careers working with animals, and also answers kids' questions about pet behavior.

Creature Feature
Part of the National Geographic for Kids website, the Creature Feature not only gives you fun facts about different animals, but also photos, videos, and maps indicating where in the world these animals live.

Oakland Zoo - Animals
The website for the Oakland Zoo not only has information about the zoo's hours and location, but also a great database of information on animals. Just find the kind of animal you're interested in (mammal, bird, reptile, etc.) and then select the specific species from the appropriate drop-down menu. Voila!

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