Skip to Main Content
Predator and Prey

Predator and Prey

Apex predators are often the villains in horror movies, but their existence is crucial to marine conservation efforts. Students will learn about these marine animals and depict images of predator and prey.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

Gather all the supplies needed to bring your craft ideas to life! From paints and markers to glue and scissors, our crafts section has everything to spark creativity and make every project truly special.

  • Heavy Paper

Steps

  • Step 1

    Apex predators of the ocean are the top predators in the marine food chain. They are referred to as keystone species because of the critical role they play in maintaining the balance of the food chain. Have students learn about some of the top predators: great white sharks, orcas, polar bears, saltwater crocodiles, tiger sharks, bull sharks, and leopard seals. For example, they are known for some key adaptation skills that allow them to thrive in their environment. Killer whales have a complex social structure that aids their hunting ability. Sharks have a streamlined body and specialized teeth.

  • Step 2

    Ask students to further research one or two species and learn some of the animals they feed on. Then have them create predator and prey drawings. They might depict a shark on one piece of paper and a tuna on another, or a saltwater crocodile on one and a snake on another. 

  • Step 3

    Have students present their predator and prey drawings and discuss some of the other animals they prey on.

Standards

SCI: Convey designs through sketches, detailed drawings, or physical models to communicate ideas and solutions. 

SCI: Understand that events have causes, sometimes simple and sometimes multifaceted.

Adaptations

The decline in the sea otter (another apex predator) population in the Pacific Northwest led to an increase in the sea urchin population, which in turn led to the destruction of kelp forests. Have students explore the importance of kelp forests in storing carbon and sheltering species such as salmon, cod, and other fish. What led to the decline of the sea otter? Are they making a comeback?

Ask students to investigate some of the threats to apex predators, for example climate change, overfishing, and killing for sport.