Why do we usually nature journal one organism or species at a time? How can we nature journal inter-species relationships?
Today’s Prompt: Inter-species Relationship
There are a lot of interesting relationships in nature. Some of the most interesting are those between members of different species. How can we capture these relationships in our nature journals? It is easy to end up with pages and pages of species profiles. In so doing, our nature journal ends up looking like the diary of an Edwardian Lady. Luckily, nature journaling has come a long way since then. Let’s look at some ways to explore relationships in our nature journals.
How to nature journal inter-species relationships
- First, let’s start easy. I like to nature journal flowers and their visitors. One strategy is to just sit next to a flowering plant, nature journaling the plant and keeping notes on all the animals that visit the flower. (see the example page below). One word of caution: don’t assume something is a pollinator just because it is a bug on a flower.
- Predator-prey. One of the most exciting events we can witness in nature is a hunt! While this is a rare event to see in the wild you can prepare for it and you could also simulate this from a video. You can also witness and explore on your pages other aspects of predator prey relationship besides a hunt.
- Perhaps you’d prefer the vegetarian option. Herbivore-prey relationships are everywhere. Look for bugs. Think outside the box.
- Don’t forget that plants are actors too. They are not just passive. Can you observe a relationship between two or more plants? What abut fungi?
- Lastly, get personal. What about relationships you have with other species? Have you ever nature journaled those?
But what if I’m completely new to nature journaling?
Regardless of your experience, we got you right here. Below are links to some super resources for beginner nature journalers.
Are you just getting started with Nature Journaling?
Here are tips and motivation for beginners.
Where is the 30 day challenge?
If you missed the beginning you can still jump in now. Here is the complete guide.
If you want a PDF for printing: 30 Day Challenge Wild Wonder Nature Journaling Conference
