Nature study means watching and learning about things in nature. Students of nature may go on hikes in the countryside to observe the birds or to look for wildflowers. In the city, nature lovers may visit gardens, museums, parks, and zoos to learn about the natural world. Many youth organizations have nature study programs. Such organizations may sponsor outings or carry out special projects for the protection of the natural environment.
Careful observation is necessary in nature study. Many naturalists (students of nature) keep detailed records of their observations in the form of notes, sketches, or photographs. Some students of nature collect such things as flowers, insects, leaves, rocks, or shells. Naturalists have made many important contributions to our understanding of nature. See Classification, Scientific.
