Carnivores, Herbivores & Omnivores

How come some animals eat only plants, while some eat only meat, and others eat both? Use the cards in this packet to help answer that question (hint, pay close attention to each animal's teeth).

This activity introduces the children to the terms carnivore, omnivore, and herbivore and shows them six animals that represent each group. We chose animals that represent the five main vertebrate classes along with invertebrates to provide zoological balance. Each photo displays the subject in its natural environment with the food it eats. These beautiful photos make finding out what different animals eat a fun lesson that can open many discussions about the diversity of species.

Use the photos alone in 3-period vocabulary lessons and for independent sorting work with pre-readers. Then, introduce all 3-parts and the sorting labels for children who are stretching past phonetic reading.