Tigers in the Wild Adventure for 2025: Free Resources

The Tigers in the Wild Adventure is a great way for Tiger Cub Scouts to explore the outdoors and learn about nature. In this adventure, Tigers and their adult partners or den leaders spend time outside. They learn important outdoor skills and understand how to be prepared and safe. This helps Tigers develop a love for the outdoors and teaches them to respect nature.

During the adventure, Tigers learn about the Cub Scout Six Essentials. These are items every Scout should carry when going outdoors. Understanding these essentials helps Tigers be ready for any outdoor activity. They learn what each item is for and how to use them. This knowledge is important for keeping safe and having fun outside.

Tigers also learn about the Outdoor Code. This code teaches them to be careful and respectful in nature. By following the code, Tigers help protect the environment and wildlife. This is important for preserving nature for everyone to enjoy.

Overall, the Tigers in the Wild Adventure is more than just a walk in the park. It is a chance for Tiger Cub Scouts to learn valuable skills and develop respect for the environment. They also learn to identify different animals and trees, which helps them connect more with nature. These experiences help Tigers grow and enjoy their time in Scouting.

Requirements for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure

Tigers in the Wild Adventure Requirements

1. Identify the Cub Scout Six Essentials.  Show what you do with each item.
2. With your den leader or Tiger adult partner, learn about the Outdoor Code.
3. Take a walk outside spending for at least 20 minutes exploring the outdoors with your Cub Scout Six Essentials.  While outside, identify things that you see with your Tiger adult partner that are natural and things that are manmade.  
4. Identify common animals that are found where you live. Learn which of those animals is domesticated and which animal is wild.  Draw a picture of your favorite animal.
5. Look for a tree where you live.  Describe how this tree is helpful.

Resources for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure

Tigers in the Wild Den Meeting Plan

This den meeting plan for the Tigers in the Wild adventure introduces Tiger Cub Scouts to outdoor skills and nature exploration. Tigers learn about the Cub Scout Six Essentials, which help them stay safe and prepared for outdoor activities. They also practice the Outdoor Code, discovering ways to care for and respect nature. Through hands-on activities like packing their essentials and role-playing scenarios, Tigers gain valuable knowledge in a fun and interactive way.

The meeting includes a guided nature walk where Tigers identify natural and manmade objects, as well as activities to explore animals and trees in their area. Tigers draw their favorite animals, observe a tree up close, and discuss how it helps the environment. The plan is rounded out with a snack break and a closing ceremony, tying the activities to the Scout Law. This fun and educational meeting helps Tigers build confidence and develop a love for the outdoors.

Tigers in the Wild Requirement 1: Essential Gear

Identify the Cub Scout Six Essentials.  Show what you do with each item.

The first requirement for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure is about learning the Cub Scout Six Essentials. These are items that every Cub Scout should carry when they go on outdoor adventures. Knowing these essentials helps Tigers be prepared for anything they might encounter outside.

1. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is very important. Tigers should learn how to fill their water bottle and carry it with them.
2. Sun Protection: This can be sunscreen, a hat, or sunglasses. Tigers learn why it’s important to protect themselves from the sun.
3. Flashlight: A flashlight is useful for seeing in the dark. Tigers should learn how to turn it on and why it’s important to have it, even during the day.
4. Trail Food: This is a snack to keep energy up. Tigers can pack their own trail-friendly snack and learn why having food is important for longer outings.
5. First Aid Kit: A simple kit with basics like band-aids and ointments. Tigers learn the basics of first aid and what each item in their kit can be used for.
6. Whistle: It’s a safety tool for calling for help if they get lost. Tigers should practice how to use it safely and understand why it’s important.

See ideas for game and activities, and get a handout to send home, on my Cub Scout Six Essentials page.

Here are some more options for fulfilling Tigers in the Wild requirement 1:

• Grab the Six Essentials
  • Relay race for Cub Scouts to identify the Cub Scout Six Essentials.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, crayons, filled water bottle, small first aid kit, whistle, flashlight, sun protection, trail mix, other items, cardboard box
  • indoor, very high energy, 3 to 5 days prep
• Is It a Cub Scout Essential?
  • Cub Scouts pick out the Cub Scout six essentials from mix of outdoor equipment.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, crayons, filled water bottle, small first aid kit, whistle, flashlight, sun protection, trail mix, other items
  • indoor, low energy, 3 to 5 days prep

Den leaders can make this requirement fun and engaging by organizing a scavenger hunt where Tigers use each of the essentials. They could also create a role-play activity where Tigers pretend they’re on a hike and have to decide when to use each item. These activities help Tigers understand not just what the items are, but why and how they use them in real outdoor situations.

Tigers in the Wild Requirement 2: The Outdoor Code

With your den leader or Tiger adult partner, learn about the Outdoor Code.

The second requirement for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure focuses on the Outdoor Code. This code is very important because it teaches Tiger Cub Scouts how to behave responsibly outdoors. The Outdoor Code helps protect our environment and ensures that everyone can enjoy nature.

The Outdoor Code states:

As an American, I will do my best to

• Be clean in my outdoor manners.
• Be careful with fire.
• Be considerate in the outdoors.
• Be conservation minded.

Learn more about the Outdoor Code here.

• Create an Outdoor Code Poster: Have each Tiger draw a poster that illustrates one of the principles of the Outdoor Code. They can share these posters with their den and discuss what each principle means.
• Outdoor Code Relay Race: Set up a relay race where Tigers have to complete a task related to each principle of the Outdoor Code. For example, they could sort recyclables, practice digging and extinguishing a small (pretend) campfire, or clean up litter along a course.
• Role-Playing Scenarios: Create scenarios where Tigers have to decide the best action that follows the Outdoor Code. For instance, what to do when they see litter in a park or how to behave when they encounter wildlife.

Here are some options for fulfilling Tigers in the Wild requirement 2:

• Outdoor Code in a Flash
  • Flash card activity to introduce Cub Scouts to the Outdoor Code.
  • Supplies: printed Outdoor Code flash cards
  • indoor, moderate energy, 1 to 3 days prep
• Outdoor Code Puzzle
  • Cub Scouts use their Tiger handbook to create an Outdoor Code puzzle.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, scissors, crayons
  • indoor, very low energy, minimal prep
• The Four C’s of the Outdoor Code
  • The four C’s is a method of introducing the Outdoor Code.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, crayons
  • indoor, very low energy, minimal prep

These activities help Tigers understand the Outdoor Code in a fun and engaging way. They learn the importance of respecting nature and how their actions can make a positive difference in the environment.

Tigers in the Wild Requirement 3: Nature Walk Adventure

Take a walk outside spending for at least 20 minutes exploring the outdoors with your Cub Scout Six Essentials.  While outside, identify things that you see with your Tiger adult partner that are natural and things that are manmade.  

Requirement 3 of the Tigers in the Wild Adventure gets Tiger Cub Scouts outside to explore the environment actively. This outdoor walk is a practical exercise to use the Cub Scout Six Essentials and to distinguish between natural objects and manmade items. This activity reinforces the importance of being prepared while helping Tigers observe and learn about their surroundings.

• Nature vs. Manmade Bingo: Create a bingo card with pictures or names of both natural and manmade items. As Tigers walk, they can mark off items they see. The first to complete a line wins a small prize. This makes the learning fun and interactive.
• Scavenger Hunt: Prepare a list of natural and manmade items for Tigers to find during their walk. This could include items like leaves, rocks, trash, signs, and benches. Tigers can check off items as they find them, which encourages careful observation and discussion about each item.
• Photo Journey: If possible, allow Tigers or their adult partners to take a camera or use a phone to take pictures of what they find. Back at the meeting place, they can share photos and discuss what they saw, focusing on the differences between natural and manmade items.

Here are some options for fulfilling Tigers in the Wild requirement 3:

• 5 Step Seek
  • Adult partners give a clue to something they see outside as Cub Scouts guess what it is and if it is natural or manmade.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, pencils, filled water bottle, small first aid kit, whistle, flashlight, sun protection, trail mix
  • outdoor, high energy, 3 to 5 days prep
• I Spy Natural or Manmade
  • A game of I Spy that includes objects that are natural or manmade.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, pencils, filled water bottle, small first aid kit, whistle, flashlight, sun protection, trail mix
  • outdoor, high energy, 3 to 5 days prep
• Natural or Manmade by the Numbers
  • Cub Scouts and adult partners work together to identify as many things they can that are natural and manmade.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, pencils, filled water bottle, small first aid kit, whistle, flashlight, sun protection, trail mix, blank paper
  • outdoor, high energy, 3 to 5 days prep

These activities for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure not only make the walk more engaging but also deepen the Tigers’ understanding of the environment around them. They learn to appreciate the beauty of nature and recognize the impact of human-made structures and items on the natural world.

Tigers in the Wild Requirement 4: Learning About Local Animals

Identify common animals that are found where you live. Learn which of those animals is domesticated and which animal is wild.  Draw a picture of your favorite animal.

In Requirement 4 of the Tigers in the Wild Adventure, Tiger Cub Scouts learn about the animals that live in their area. They find out which animals are wild and which are domesticated. This helps them understand more about local wildlife and the role of animals in their communities.

• Animal Guessing Game: Before going outside, have a discussion or presentation about local animals. Then, play a guessing game where Tigers describe an animal without naming it, and others guess if it’s wild or domesticated.
• Wildlife Walk: Take a walk in a local park or nature reserve and look for animals. Bring along a guidebook or use a smartphone app to help identify animals. Discuss which ones are likely to be domesticated (like dogs or horses) and which are wild (like squirrels or birds).
• Animal Drawing Session: After learning about local animals, have each Tiger choose their favorite animal and draw it. Provide some simple tips on drawing animals, such as starting with basic shapes. This can be a fun way to engage their creativity and reinforce what they’ve learned about these animals.

Here are some options for fulfilling Tigers in the Wild requirement 4:

• My Favorite Animals
  • Cub Scouts draw their favorite domesticated and wild animal.
  • Supplies: blank paper, pencils, crayons, photos of domesticated and wild animals
  • indoor, low energy, minimal prep
• Stuffed Animal Relay Race
  • Using stuffed animals Cub Scouts identify if the animal is wild or domesticated.
  • Supplies: stuffed animals (wild and domesticated), two baskets
  • indoor, high energy, 3 to 5 days prep

These activities make learning about animals for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure interactive and enjoyable. Tigers get to explore their natural surroundings, understand the differences between wild and domesticated animals, and express themselves through art.

Tigers in the Wild Requirement 5: Tree Treasures

Look for a tree where you live.  Describe how this tree is helpful.

Requirement 5 of the Tigers in the Wild Adventure encourages Tiger Cub Scouts to notice and appreciate trees in their environment. This activity helps Tigers understand the important roles that trees play in their communities and ecosystems.

• Tree Identification Walk: Take a walk in a local park or around your neighborhood to observe different types of trees. Use a simple tree identification guide to help Tigers learn the names of various trees and discuss the specific benefits of each one, like providing oxygen, shade, and homes for animals.
• The Giving Tree Activity: After choosing a tree, have Tigers think about and list all the benefits that this particular tree offers to people, animals, and the environment. This could include things like fruit for food, leaves that offer shade, and branches that birds can nest in.
• Tree Care Project: Teach Tigers how to care for trees by doing a simple activity like watering trees in their neighborhood or spreading mulch around tree bases. This helps them understand the importance of trees and gives them a sense of responsibility for taking care of the environment.

Here are some options for fulfilling Tigers in the Wild requirement 5:

• Leaf and Bark Rubbing
  • Make a leaf and bark rubbing of a tree.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, blank paper, crayons, tree leaves, tree bark
  • outdoor, moderate energy, 1 to 3 days prep
• Pinecone Bird Feeder
  • Make a pinecone bird feeder and place it in a tree.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, crayons, large pinecones, peanut butter, plastic knives, birdseed, bowl, twine
  • outdoor, moderate energy, 3 to 5 days prep
• Tiger Tree Planting
  • Plant a tree.
  • Supplies: Tiger handbook, crayons, tree seedlings, small shovels, work gloves
  • indoor, high energy, a week or more prep

These activities make the learning process about trees active and meaningful. Tigers gain a deeper appreciation of how essential trees are to their local environment and the wider world.

Before any activity, check the SAFE Checklist to make sure everyone is safe. Everyone involved in Scouting America activities should know the Guide to Safe Scouting and other relevant guides or books. Also follow any state or local rules that are more strict than Scouting America rules and guidelines.

Before conducting a craft activity, watch the Craft Tips video (2 minutes 34 seconds).

Before starting this Adventure, complete the following:

During the Adventure:

• Use the buddy system.
• All adults should provide active supervision.

More information for Tigers in the Wild

Frequently Asked Questions for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure

What are the Cub Scout Six Essentials for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure?

The Six Essentials are items you should carry on every outdoor adventure: water bottle, sun protection, flashlight, trail food, first aid kit, and a whistle. Learn more about the Cub Scout Six Essentials here.

Why do we need to learn the Outdoor Code for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure?

The Outdoor Code teaches us how to be careful and respectful in nature. It helps protect the environment and keeps it nice for everyone.

How long should our walk be for Requirement 3 of the Tigers in the Wild Adventure?

You should spend at least 20 minutes walking outdoors with your group. This gives you enough time to explore and see different things.

What kind of animals should we look for in Requirement 4 of the Tigers in the Wild Adventure?

Look for any animals that live near you. You can find both wild animals, like birds and squirrels, and domesticated animals, like cats and dogs.

How is a tree helpful?

Trees are helpful because they give us air to breathe, shade from the sun, and sometimes food like fruits or nuts. They also give homes to animals.

Can we do these activities for the Tigers in the Wild Adventure in our local park?

Yes, your local park is a great place to do these activities. You can see many different trees and animals there.

What should we do if it rains on the day of our adventure?

If it rains, try to reschedule for a clear day. If that’s not possible, discuss the requirements indoors or focus on parts of the adventure that can be done inside, like drawing or learning about animals.

Do parents need to come along for the adventure?

Yes, each Tiger should have an adult partner with them to help guide and ensure safety during the adventure.

A Roaring Good Time Outdoors

The Tigers in the Wild Adventure is designed for Tiger Cub Scouts to explore and learn about the natural world. This adventure teaches them important outdoor skills and helps them appreciate the environment. Tigers start by learning the Cub Scout Six Essentials, which are items they should always have when they go outside. These essentials prepare them for safe and fun adventures.

Next, Tigers learn about the Outdoor Code. This code guides them on how to act responsibly outdoors to protect nature. Understanding and following the Outdoor Code is crucial for all outdoor activities.

During the adventure, Tigers also go on a nature walk. They use the Six Essentials during this walk and try to identify natural and manmade things. This helps them see the difference between things that grow or occur naturally and things that people have made.

Another exciting part of the Tigers in the Wild adventure is learning about local wildlife. Tigers find out which animals are wild and which are domesticated. They also draw pictures of their favorite animals, combining creativity with learning.

Finally, Tigers focus on trees. They look at different trees and learn how trees help us and the environment. This gives them a deeper understanding of how important trees are in our world.