Aves e Mamíferos do Cerrado: O uso de recursos didáticos para a sensibilização de crianças

Abstract

The Cerrado is the second largest biome in Brazil and harbors significant biodiversity, which is often neglected in terms of conservation. Threats such as the expansion of agriculture and livestock farming jeopardize its original fauna and flora. To counter these threats, Environmental Education (EE) emerges as a tool to promote the conservation of this biome and develop aware and critical citizens. Visual resources, such as drawings and paintings, are recognized as playful and educational materials that effectively contribute to promoting EE. The objective of this study was to familiarize children with the avifauna and mammal fauna of the Cerrado through coloring materials, broadening their knowledge of biodiversity and developing their perceptual skills. For the project, 15 animals were illustrated, including 6 mammals and 9 birds. The images were based on photographs taken by biologists and undergraduate students in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Uberlândia. The activities took place in three different locations: Parque do Sabiá, Colégio Casa Branca, and Escola Quintal da Infância, involving children of various age groups. Photos, magnifying glasses, feathers, and coloring sheets were used. It was observed that the use of playful visual resources sparked the children's curiosity. However, it is necessary to focus on the participants, as well as to plan and organize the activities effectively to meet the proposed objectives. Finally, the importance of Environmental Education in fostering discussions on the topic is emphasized, enabling the participation of all in wildlife conservation.