EnviroKids is brought to you by
 

        City of Tacoma  
   Environmental Services

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Critter Scopes

Did you ever wonder what life is like under water? Now is your chance to find out where different insects and their larvae live in a stream by reusing your old materials. The Critter Scope is an exploring tool that peeks into the lifestyles of the wet and wiggly world.

Rating: MEDIUM
Adult Supervision Required? YES

What you need

  • A can opener
  • A clean coffee can or large soup can
  • Waterproof, electrical or duct tape
  • Clear plastic wrap (a heavy duty brand like Saran Wrap works best)
  • A large and strong rubber band
  • Scissors
  • Paint and brushes (optional)

How to make it

  1. Carefully remove both ends of the can using the can opener and cover sharp edges with tape. Have an adult help you.

  2. Place plastic wrap over one end of the can, leaving about one inch extra around the edge. 

  3. Put a rubber band around the can and plastic wrap to keep the plastic wrap tight. 

  4. Cut off excess plastic wrap and put tape over both the rubber band and plastic wrap. 

  5. Take your critter scope for a test run in a sink.  Place the closed end (the one with the plastic on it) in the water and look through the open end. Can you see under water without the water leaking in? If water leaks in, you may need a tighter rubber band or tape.

  6. Go visit the wet and wiggly world of a stream, lake or Puget Sound. 

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