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Canal and river habitats

Canals and rivers are great places for wildlife. Use these activities and resources to encourage children to do, watch, play, create and read as they learn about canal and river habitats.

We'd love to see your peg butterflies! Share them with us on the Explorers X or Facebook pages.

Download free learning resources

Canal & River Habitats Activity Plan
Learn about the different habitats, wildlife and plants found along canals and rivers. Use the plan to guide your learning.
Canal & River Habitats Activity Plan
Learn about the different habitats, wildlife and plants found along canals and rivers. Use the plan to guide your learning.
Canal & River Habitats Topic Pack
Learn all about biodiversity, adaptations, life cycles, food chains and the habitats found in or next to canals and rivers.
Canal & River Habitats Topic Pack
Learn all about biodiversity, adaptations, life cycles, food chains and the habitats found in or next to canals and rivers.
Canal & River Habitats Activity Sheets
Choose some activities from this pack or do the whole thing, all you need is a pen, paper and some craft materials.
Canal & River Habitats Activity Sheets
Choose some activities from this pack or do the whole thing, all you need is a pen, paper and some craft materials.
Build a Bug Hotel
Instructions to create a simple mini bug hotel.
Build a Bug Hotel
Instructions to create a simple mini bug hotel.
Make a Seed Bomb
Instructions for how to make a seed bomb to attract pollinators to your outdoor space.
Make a Seed Bomb
Instructions for how to make a seed bomb to attract pollinators to your outdoor space.
The Secret Life of a Dragonfly
Watch this video to learn everything you need to know about the life cycle of a dragonfly.
The Secret Life of a Dragonfly
Watch this video to learn everything you need to know about the life cycle of a dragonfly.
Peg Butterfly
Use this template to create your own butterfly with beautifully patterned wings.
Peg Butterfly
Use this template to create your own butterfly with beautifully patterned wings.
Food Chain Games
The games slider has several games about habitats and living things – have fun and test your knowledge!
Food Chain Games
The games slider has several games about habitats and living things – have fun and test your knowledge!

Last Edited: 7 January 2026