Nature and the Trail to Eagle
Nature is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Nature Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Nature. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Name three ways in which plants are important to animals. Name a plant that is poisonous to humans.
- 2
Do the following:
- a.Identify 15 species of wild animals found in your community.
- b.Identify 15 species of wild plants found in your community.
- 3
Do ONE of the following: observe a piece of land, a pond, or a stream. Describe the plants and animals found there.
- 4
Discuss with your counselor the importance of conservation.
- 5
Find out about three career opportunities in nature study or conservation.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Nature Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Nature, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Nature is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 7 Nature requirements for you.
Nature Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Nature merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Nature is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Nature merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Nature in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Nature merit badge?
Nature is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Nature can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Nature merit badge have?
Nature has 5 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 7 items in total.
