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Critter Highlight - Rat (Rattus norvegicus)

Spotlight on Rats

Rats are characterized as medium-sized rodents possessing long tails. While the term "rat" is used for many kinds of rodents, the most common ones belong to the group Rattus. Rats are generally bigger than mice. The most widely recognized rat species are the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the black rat (Rattus rattus), both of which originally came from Asia.

Rats are capable of performing various specialized tasks due to their excellent sense of smell and ease of training. The organization APOPO, for instance, trains African giant pouched rats to detect tuberculosis and locate landmines.

However, common rat species frequently live close to human populations and can consume substantial quantities of food.

The rat's tail functions much like a home's smart thermostat; it actively monitors and adjusts the body's internal "climate" to keep it balanced, whether regulating heat or helping the body stay upright.

Rat Facts:

• A group of rats is called a mischief.

• Male rats are known as bucks.

• Unmated female rats are does, while pregnant or parent females are dams.

• Baby rats are referred to as kittens or pups.

For more information about these and other animals, visit the student safe resource: TexQuest (Login needed)

These furry critters are available from the Learning Alive Cooperative Material Center for a 2-week checkout or as a classroom pet.

Product Spotlight - "Coleus, Geraniums, Begonias" - Oh My!

Vibrant Blooms and Foliage: Exploring Coleus, Geraniums, and Begonias

As the world of gardening continues to flourish, the beauty of plants like Coleus, Geraniums, and Begonias draws attention in educational settings. These ornamental plants not only enhance our surroundings but also serve as excellent tools for teaching children about plant care, biology, and environmental stewardship.

Coleus: The Colorful Leaf Showstopper

Coleus plants are renowned for their vibrant foliage, featuring an array of stunning colors including reds, greens, and yellows. Unlike many plants that focus on flowers, Coleus captivates with its patterned leaves, offering diverse visual interest.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers partial shade to bright, indirect sunlight.
• Watering: It thrives in consistently moist soil, but avoid oversaturation.
• Growth: Can grow up to 3 feet tall, making it an excellent choice for borders or containers.

Educational Insight: Kids can learn about photosynthesis and plant pigments through the colorful leaves of Coleus. Have students track growth over time, observing how light exposure affects coloration.

Geraniums: The Classic Garden Favorite

Geraniums are cherished for their clusters of bright flowers that bloom extensively, adding pops of color to gardens and containers. With species that range from short to tall, they offer various ways to beautify spaces.

Care Tips:

• Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade—ideal for sunny window boxes or garden beds.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Growth: Varies widely based on type; some can reach up to 3 feet tall.

Educational Insight: Students can explore plant anatomy by examining Geranium flowers. Encourage them to keep a journal of their observations as they create flower arrangements or learn about pollination.

Begonias: A Touch of Elegance

Begonias are versatile plants known for their attractive foliage and stunning flowers, available in a wide range of colors. They thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings, making them suitable for diverse gardening projects.

Care Tips:

• Light: Enjoys indirect sunlight; too much direct sun can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Keep soil moist but well-draining to avoid root rot.
• Growth: Generally compact in size, reaching around 2 feet, easily fit for small spaces.

Educational Insight: Use Begonias to teach about soil health and the importance of drainage. Students can experiment with different soil mixtures to observe how they affect plant health.

Incorporating Coleus, Geraniums, and Begonias into educational settings offers a hands-on approach to learning about plant care, biology, and the environment. By nurturing these vibrant plants, students not only beautify their surroundings but also gain essential skills and knowledge that will serve them throughout their lives. Encourage exploration and creativity in the garden—every leaf and blossom has a story to tell!

Limited Edition Kits from the Barber Collection

Beetle Kit – Limited Edition Barber Collection

Explore the incredible diversity, adaptations, and natural history of beetles with this exclusive educational set. This kit features professionally curated specimens and reference materials ideal for classroom study, museum display, or entomology enthusiasts.

Kit Includes:

Mounted Beetle Specimen Displays

Beautifully pinned and labeled specimens representing a range of beetle families, including:

• Stag beetles

• Jewel beetles

• Scarab beetles

• Weevils

• Leaf beetles

• Longhorn beetles
  and more—each highlighting the vast diversity of shapes, sizes, and coloration found within Coleoptera.

Rare and Exotic Species Examples

Large featured specimens showcase:

• Impressive mandibles and defensive structures

• Metallic coloration and iridescence

• Camouflage and mimicry adaptations

Each display board includes scientific labeling for easy reference and study.

Laminated Informational Cards

Detailed illustrated learning cards explain:

• Beetle anatomy

• Classification and major families

• Evolution and lifestyles

• Natural behaviors and ecological roles

Reference Guides

Two illustrated, student-friendly books:

• The Fascinating World of Beetles

• Insects – Identification Guide

Both provide rich background information on beetle biology, field identification, and entomology basics.

This limited-edition kit delivers an immersive look into the world’s largest animal order—combining art-quality specimen displays with educational depth and scientific accuracy.

Order through the Learning Alive Order Platform using keyword Limited Edition.

Learning Alive. Where curiosity meets curriculum!

Upcoming Connect20 Sessions

Access the list of Education Service Center, Region 20 training opportunities.

Deliveries & Returns Information

Living materials are delivered weekly to schools within Region 20 by the ESC-20 Delivery Van. Schools outside of Region 20 that are not currently served by ESC-20 should contact their local Regional Service Center for delivery schedules and availability.