My Tiger Jungle Adventure: Cub Scout Helps and Ideas

This information is for the Cub Scout program before the June 1, 2024 updates. After June 2024, all Cub Scouts should use the updated program requirements. See here.

The “My Tiger Jungle Adventure” is an exciting outdoor journey designed for Tiger Cub Scouts to explore and connect with nature. It is one of the required Tiger Cub Scout adventures. This adventure aims to foster a deep appreciation for the natural world, instill environmental responsibility, and encourage a sense of wonder and curiosity about the wildlife and plants in their local environment.

The focus of this adventure is to provide young scouts with opportunities to engage in outdoor activities, observe the beauty of nature, and develop a stronger bond with their adult partners or den members. By completing various requirements, such as going on nature walks, identifying birds, planting trees or shrubs, and building birdhouses, Cubs will learn valuable lessons about the environment, conservation, and the importance of caring for our planet.

Leaders and parents play a crucial role in guiding and supporting the Cub Scouts throughout their adventure. Your involvement will enhance the learning experience and make it even more memorable for the young participants. By encouraging exploration and hands-on activities, you will help Tigers develop a sense of wonder and a passion for protecting the natural world.

Through the My Tiger Jungle Adventure, Cub Scouts will not only grow in their knowledge of wildlife and plants but also build character, teamwork, and leadership skills. As leaders and parents, your guidance and enthusiasm will shape their experience, inspiring them to become responsible and caring stewards of the environment, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. So, get ready to embark on this unforgettable journey with your young Tiger Cub Scouts and let them discover the wonders of the great outdoors!

Complete requirement 1 plus at least two others.

1. With your parent, guardian, or other caring adult (referred to in the handbook as “your adult partner”), go for a walk
   outside and pick out two or more sights or sounds of “nature” around you. Discuss with your partner or den.
2. Take a 1-foot hike. Make a list of the living things you find on your 1-foot hike. Discuss these plants or animals with
   your parent, guardian, or other caring adult, or with your den.
3. Point out two different kinds of birds that live in your area. With your parent, guardian, or other caring adult, or with
   your den, find out more about one of these birds.
4. Be helpful to nature by planting a plant, shrub, or tree. Learn more about the needs and growth of the item you
   have planted.
5. Build and hang a birdhouse

Click here to download a printable PDF copy of the My Tiger Jungle requirements (page 1) and a check off sheet (page 2) to keep track of your den’s progress.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 1 of the My Tiger Jungle Adventure

Requirement 1 for the My Tiger Jungle adventure involves going for a walk outside with a parent, guardian, or other caring adult and picking out two or more sights or sounds of “nature” around you. Here are some tips to make the most of this activity:

1. Choose a Scenic Location: Pick a nearby park, nature reserve, or any green space that offers a variety of natural elements. This will enhance the scouting experience and provide ample opportunities for observation.
2. Bring a Nature Journal: Provide each Tiger Cub Scout with a nature journal and some colored pencils or crayons. Encourage them to sketch or write about what they see and hear during the walk. This will help them remember their discoveries and serve as a keepsake.
3. Encourage Curiosity: Encourage the Cubs to ask questions about the things they encounter. Use this opportunity to discuss and learn together about the plants, insects, or animals they come across.
4. Practice Mindfulness: Encourage the scouts to be present in the moment and appreciate the beauty of nature around them. Encourage them to use all their senses to observe and experience their surroundings fully.
5. Play Nature Bingo: Create a simple “Nature Bingo” sheet with images or names of common natural elements such as flowers, birds, trees, or rocks. Have the scouts mark off the items they find during the walk.
6. Listen for Bird Calls: Pay attention to the different bird calls or songs heard during the walk. Bring a guidebook or use smartphone apps to identify the birds based on their sounds.
7. Explore Different Habitats: If possible, explore different habitats during the walk, such as a wooded area, a meadow, or a pond. Discuss the unique features and wildlife found in each habitat.
8. Plan a Seasonal Walk: Consider organizing the walk during different seasons to observe the changes in nature throughout the year. This will give the Cubs a deeper understanding of the natural cycles.
9. Safety First: Remind the scouts to stay on designated paths and avoid touching or disturbing any plants or animals they encounter. Emphasize the importance of respecting nature and leaving no trace.
10. Share and Discuss: After the walk, gather together to share the sights and sounds each scout observed. Engage in group discussions to encourage interaction and learning from one another’s experiences.

By following these tips for My Tiger Jungle requirement 1, the Cub Scouts will have an enriching and enjoyable experience during their nature walk, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world and instilling a sense of wonder and curiosity about the environment.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 2 of the My Tiger Jungle Adventure

Requirement 2 for the My Tiger Jungle adventure involves taking a 1-foot hike and making a list of the living things found within a 1-foot radius. Here are some tips to make this activity fun and educational for the Tiger Cub Scouts:

1. Select a Safe Location: Choose a safe and suitable area for the 1-foot hike. It could be in a park, garden, or any natural space with diverse flora and fauna.
2. Use a Magnifying Glass: Provide each scout with a magnifying glass to help them explore the tiny details of plants, insects, and other living things they encounter.
3. Create a Field Guide: Before the hike, create a simple field guide with pictures and names of common plants and insects found in the area. The scouts can use this guide to identify the living things they discover.
4. Record Observations: Give each Tiger Cub Scout a small notebook or a checklist to record their observations. They can note down the names of plants, insects, or other living things they find during the hike.
5. Discuss Discoveries: After the hike, gather the scouts together to discuss their findings. Encourage them to share their favorite discoveries and any interesting facts they learned about the living things they observed.
6. Learn About Local Flora and Fauna: Take this opportunity to teach the Cub Scouts about the importance of various plants and insects in the local ecosystem. Discuss how these living things contribute to the balance of nature.
7. Compare Different 1-Foot Hikes: If possible, organize 1-foot hikes in different locations to compare the diversity of living things found in each area. This will help the Cub Scouts understand how ecosystems vary in different environments.
8. Practice Gentle Exploration: Remind the scouts to handle the living things they encounter with care and respect. Instruct them not to disturb or harm any plants or insects during the hike.
9. Bring a Camera: Consider bringing a camera or a smartphone to capture photos of the living things the Cub Scouts find. This way, they can create a visual record of their discoveries.

By following these tips for My Tiger Jungle requirement 2, the Tiger Cub Scouts will have an engaging and educational 1-foot hike, developing their observation skills and gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse living things that surround them in their natural environment.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 3 of the My Tiger Jungle Adventure

Requirement 3 for the My Tiger Jungle Adventure involves pointing out two different kinds of birds that live in the scout’s area and learning more about one of these birds. Here are some tips to make this bird watching activity enjoyable and informative for the Tiger Cub Scouts:

1. Research Local Birds: Before the bird watching activity, research the common bird species found in your area. Create a list of birds that are likely to be seen during the outing.
2. Use Binoculars and Field Guides: Provide each scout with a pair of binoculars and a bird identification field guidebook. Binoculars will help the Cubs get a closer look at the birds, and the field guidebook will aid in identifying them.
3. Practice Quiet Observation: Teach the Cubs the importance of being quiet and patient while bird watching. Birds are easily startled by loud noises, so encourage the scouts to move slowly and avoid making sudden movements.
4. Bird Identification Game: Turn bird watching into a fun game. Create bird identification cards with pictures of the birds likely to be seen. As the Cubs spot a bird, they can match it to the corresponding card.
5. Take Photos or Sketch Birds: Encourage the scouts to bring along a sketchbook or a camera to record their observations. They can sketch or take photos of the birds they see and later identify them using the field guidebook.
6. Learn Bird Calls: Besides visual identification, teach the Cub Scouts about bird calls and songs. Listen for distinctive bird calls during the outing and discuss their different sounds.
7. Discuss Bird Behavior: Take the opportunity to observe the behavior of the birds. Discuss how they move, what they eat, and where they build their nests.
8. Respect Wildlife: Remind the Cubs to maintain a safe distance from the birds and their nests. Emphasize the importance of respecting wildlife and not disturbing their natural habitats.
9. Learn About Bird Migration: If the bird watching outing occurs during migration seasons, discuss the concept of bird migration and why some birds travel long distances during certain times of the year.
10. Create a Bird Watching Journal: Have the Cub Scouts create a bird watching journal to document their experiences. They can write about the birds they spotted, draw pictures, and note down interesting facts they learned.

By following these tips for My Tiger Jungle requirement 3, the Tiger Cub Scouts will have a rewarding bird watching experience, gaining a deeper appreciation for the avian life in their area and developing a curiosity for the diverse bird species that inhabit our natural surroundings.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 4 of the My Tiger Jungle Adventure

Requirement 4 for the “My Tiger Jungle Adventure” involves being helpful to nature by planting a plant, shrub, or tree. Here are some tips to make this planting activity meaningful and educational for the Tiger Cub Scouts:

1. Choose Native Species: Select native plants, shrubs, or trees that are well-suited to the local climate and ecosystem. Native species are more likely to thrive and support local wildlife.
2. Research Planting Needs: Before the activity, research the specific planting needs of the chosen plant, shrub, or tree. Discuss with the Cubs the importance of soil, sunlight, water, and space requirements for successful growth.
3. Prepare the Planting Site: Prepare the planting site in advance by clearing the area of weeds and debris. Ensure the soil is loosened and fertile to provide a healthy environment for the new plant.
4. Demonstrate Proper Planting: Show the Cubs how to plant the chosen species correctly. Explain the depth at which the plant should be placed, and how to water and mulch around the plant to retain moisture.
5. Watering Schedule: Discuss the importance of proper watering and create a watering schedule for the Cubs to follow after planting. Teach them not to overwater or underwater the new plant.
6. Label Plants: Create simple plant labels with the name of the plant and the date it was planted. The Cub Scouts can decorate these labels and attach them to the newly planted greenery.
7. Discuss Plant Benefits: Talk about the benefits of planting trees and plants, such as providing oxygen, supporting wildlife, and improving air quality. Help the Cub Scouts understand the positive impact of their actions on the environment.
8. Tree Planting Ceremony: If planting a tree, consider organizing a small tree planting ceremony. Involve the Cubs in this meaningful event and encourage them to say a few words about the importance of trees.
9. Monitor Plant Growth: Regularly check on the planted items to monitor their growth progress. Discuss any changes observed and celebrate the new growth as a team.
10. Engage in Follow-up Activities: After the planting, plan follow-up activities such as nature walks to observe the wildlife attracted to the newly planted area. This will reinforce the Cubs’ sense of accomplishment and connection to nature.

By following these tips for My Tiger Jungle requirement 5, the Tiger Cub Scouts will not only enjoy the planting activity but also develop a deeper understanding of the importance of caring for the environment and contributing positively to nature’s well-being. This hands-on experience will leave a lasting impression and foster a sense of responsibility towards our planet.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 5 of the My Tiger Jungle Adventure

Requirement 5 for the My Tiger Jungle adventure involves building and hanging a birdhouse. Here are some tips for a successful bird house project:

1. Birdhouse Kits: Consider using birdhouse kits that come with pre-cut pieces and instructions. This will make the building process easier and more accessible for the Cubs.
2. Safety First: Prioritize safety during the building process. Provide the Cubs with safety goggles and supervise them closely while using tools like hammers and nails.
3. Decorate the Birdhouses: Encourage the Cubs to get creative and decorate the birdhouses with non-toxic paints, markers, or stickers. They can make their birdhouses unique and attractive for the feathered residents.
4. Use Recycled Materials: If possible, incorporate recycled materials in the construction of the birdhouses. This will teach the Cubs about sustainable practices and repurposing materials.
5. Provide Nesting Information: As the Cubs build the birdhouses, discuss the importance of providing suitable nesting spaces for birds and how it supports local bird populations.
6. Discuss Placement: Explain the significance of placing birdhouses in safe and appropriate locations, away from predators and at a height suitable for the specific bird species.
7. Research Bird Species: Research the types of birds that are commonly found in your area and tailor the birdhouse design to attract those specific species.
8. Monitor the Birdhouses: After hanging the birdhouses, encourage the Cubs to monitor and observe any bird activity around the birdhouses. They can note which bird species show interest in their creations.
9. Document Bird Sightings: Provide the Cubs with a bird sighting journal to document any birds they see visiting the birdhouses. They can sketch or describe the birds they spot.
10. Encourage Responsibility: Teach the Cubs about the responsibility of providing shelter for birds and how their efforts contribute to the well-being of local wildlife.

By following these tips for My Tiger Jungle requirement 5, the Tiger Cub Scouts will not only enjoy the process of building birdhouses but also develop an understanding of the value of providing homes for birds. The birdhouses they create will not only serve as functional shelters but also act as symbols of their commitment to wildlife conservation.

Gourd Birdhouse

For Requirement 5 of the My Tiger Jungle Adventure, consider using dried gourds to make a birdhouse. Find some at a farmer’s market or craft shop in your area. Dried gourds provide an eco-friendly option for creating a cozy home for birds. This creative endeavor encourages resourcefulness and environmental awareness, offering a fun and rewarding experience for Tiger Cubs. By repurposing gourds into birdhouses, Cubs learn conservation while providing a warm space for local birds.

Leave No Trace Frontcountry Guidelines

The Leave No Trace program encourages responsible use of outdoor resources. The frontcountry guidelines are for day-use areas like parks and trails. Before engaging in outdoor activities for the My Tiger Jungle adventure, it’s essential to review these principles. By following Leave No Trace, Tiger Cub Scouts will learn to minimize their impact on the environment, respect wildlife and plants, and preserve nature’s beauty. Embracing these guidelines fosters environmental stewardship, ensuring safe, enjoyable, and sustainable outdoor experiences for scouts and future generations.

Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award

The My Tiger Jungle adventure provides a chance for Cub Scouts to earn the Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award. This recognition celebrates scouts who embrace outdoor adventures and engage with nature. By fulfilling the My Tiger Jungle requirements, Cubs demonstrate their commitment to exploring and appreciating the outdoors. Through activities like nature walks, birdwatching, planting, and building birdhouses, they gain valuable skills and environmental knowledge. Achieving the Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award showcases their dedication to making the most of outdoor opportunities during their Scouting journey.

Tiger Den Meeting Plan – My Tiger Jungle: Birds

The Tiger Den Meeting Plan for the My Tiger Jungle adventure focuses on birds and covers requirements 1, 3, and 5. During the meeting, the Cubs will observe nature, identify bird species, and build birdhouses. This engaging plan aims to foster environmental awareness and appreciation for wildlife while making learning fun for the young scouts.

BSA Video Resource for My Tiger Jungle

What is the My Tiger Jungle Adventure?

The My Tiger Jungle Adventure is one of the required adventures for Tiger Cub Scouts in the Cub Scouting program. It aims to encourage outdoor exploration and help Cubs connect with nature through various activities such as nature walks, birdwatching, planting, and building birdhouses.

How do the Cub Scouts complete the My Tiger Jungle Adventure?

To complete the My Tiger Jungle Adventure, Cubs need to fulfill Requirement 1, which involves going for a walk outside and observing sights and sounds of nature. Additionally, they must choose at least two other requirements from a set of options, such as identifying bird species, planting a tree, or building a birdhouse.

Can the My Tiger Jungle Adventure be done as a group activity?

Yes, the My Tiger Jungle Adventure can be done as a group activity with the Tiger Cub Scout Den. Group activities allow Cub Scouts to share their experiences, learn from each other, and build camaraderie while exploring the outdoors together.

What are the benefits of the My Tiger Jungle Adventure?

The My Tiger Jungle Adventure offers several benefits, including fostering a deeper appreciation for nature, promoting environmental awareness, and developing observation skills and curiosity in young scouts. It also helps build teamwork, responsibility, and a sense of pride in contributing positively to the environment.

What is a One-Foot Hike in the My Tiger Jungle Adventure?

A One-Foot Hike is a unique and engaging activity within the My Tiger Jungle Adventure. During this activity, Tiger Cub Scouts take a close-up exploration of their surroundings by observing and documenting living things found within a one-foot radius of their location. The purpose of the One-Foot Hike is to encourage scouts to pay attention to the often-overlooked details of nature, such as tiny insects, plants, or interesting patterns in rocks or soil.

Are there any safety considerations for the outdoor activities in the My Tiger Jungle adventure?

Safety is a top priority during the My Tiger Jungle Adventure. Adult leaders and parents should ensure that Cubs follow safety guidelines during nature walks, birdwatching, and any other outdoor activities. It’s essential to discuss safety rules beforehand, such as staying on designated paths, avoiding dangerous plants or animals, and respecting wildlife.

How can leaders and parents support the My Tiger Jungle Adventure?

Leaders and parents can support the My Tiger Jungle Adventure by actively participating in the activities with the Cubs. They can provide guidance, encouragement, and educational resources to enhance the scouts’ understanding of the natural world.

Can the My Tiger Jungle Adventure be done throughout the year?

Yes, the My Tiger Jungle Adventure can be completed throughout the year, as it offers opportunities to explore nature in different seasons. Cubs can observe changes in wildlife and plant life as the seasons change, providing a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Are there any additional resources or references for the My Tiger Jungle Adventure?

Yes, leaders and parents can refer to the official Cub Scouting handbooks and other scouting resources for more information and ideas on how to enhance the My Tiger Jungle Adventure. They can also reach out to local conservation groups or nature centers for educational support and opportunities for outdoor activities.