Episode: Pallid Bat and the Western Alligator Lizard

Purpose: To make a kid-sized blind for observing backyard wildlife.

Materials: 3-4 bamboo poles (5-6 feet in length); rope or string; 1 large, dark sheet; scissors; brown, black and green paints.

Instructions:

1) Start by making the observation frame by weaving rope around the ends of the bamboo poles.

2) Spread the untied ends of the poles apart to form a tepee type of structure.

3) Next camouflage the sheet by applying the various paints in streaks, spots and squiggly lines.

4) After the paint has dried, drape the sheet over the bamboo frame and tie it to the top of the bamboo frame. The blind should resemble a tepee.

5) Finally, cut several peepholes into the sheet.