Free coloring book for young birders

Know a 7- or 8-year-old child who enjoys nature and coloring books? The National Wildlife Refuge System wants to share a coloring book of different wildlife -- such as eagles and bears -- and their habitats. The free book can be downloaded here and then printed. You also can purchase copies of the book by calling 800-344-WILD (9453).

The book seeks to connect children to the natural world and foster a new generation of conservationists, as well as introduce them to the National Wildlife Refuge System. “If we’re serious about environmental protection and protecting the many wild creatures that depend on wild places, then we have to teach youngsters to make that special connection to nature,” said Sam Hamilton, Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “A coloring book is a good first step. But nothing replaces the real thing — getting outdoors and visiting a National Wildlife Refuge.”

As a student at Art Institute of Washington, D.C., Katie R. Schipp illustrated the book. “I’ve always loved animals and drawing," she said, "so you will see there are animals in a lot of my drawings.