Science Fair Pet Project Ideas

Science fair pet projects can be an interesting way to incorporate your favorite animal at home into your assignment. Each project uses a different animal and can be adapted to other animals as well. In addition, no animals will be harmed with each of these projects.

  1. Hamsters

    • A 2005 winner from the California State Science Fair did a project on hamsters and aromatherapy. The project was created to gauge how different smells can affect habits of a hamster. Habits such as sleep and eating are observed while different scents such as lavender, orange and cinnamon are introduced into the hamster's cage. The scientist should keep track of and evaluate the different habits of the hamster during the course of the day for each aromatherapy scent that is introduced.

    Dogs

    • Determine which type, brand or flavor of dog treats canines enjoy best with this simple science fair pet project idea. Science fair contestants will want to use at least three different brands or flavors of dog treats for this experiment as well as write down a hypothesis of which type the dog will like best and why. Then compare the hypothesis with the facts to create the report.

    Birds

    • If the science project contestant has an abundance of backyard birds to observe, this is an ideal project for him. The Daily Puppy website suggests observing birds to see if they prefer seeds of different colors, if the size of the feeder plays a role in the type of birds that visits and if these birds prefer seeds of different sizes. The website also suggest visiting the library to obtain information on local bird species for easy identification.

    Earthworms

    • Another project idea from The Daily Puppy website is an experiment on earthworms. Be prepared for this particular science project as it can take more time than others. Purchase worms at a pet or bait shop and then study the effect of earthworms on plant growth. Do this by growing two identical plants. Allow the earthworm to bury into the soil of one plant and allow the other to be left alone. Give each the same water and sun daily and examine what happens over time.