We theorize that your science and nature lovers will have a positive reaction to these gifts
Do you know a scientist who loves to test explanations and predictions of how the world works? Maybe a nature bug who revels in the physical world and all of its elements?
For those who love science and nature, we have some gift suggestions that will satisfy the left and right brain and encourage exploration and experimentation.
Mythbusters fans can enjoy their favourite testers in a variety of mediums – the television show, daily Twitter updates, live shows – so why not give the gift that is not only practical but also a charming reminder of the team? The Discovery Channel Store ( store.discovery.com) sells a variety of Mythbusters paraphernalia, including mousepads. We especially liked the zombie mousepad that rings in at $9.95. You can also get your hands on Mythbusters games and experiments if you check online and look around local toy and hobby shops.
Animal lovers will appreciate a symbolically adopted World Wildlife Fund species. When you go to wwf.ca and choose from the many local and international species, you receive a stuffed animal, an adoption certificate and information about the animal. Your funds also go toward helping to keep the species healthy and safe. Some of the new species on the list this year include the hedgehog, red panda, sea turtle and giraffe. These sell for $40, and you receive an applicable tax receipt.
Bears are one of the most powerful and inspiring animals on our planet. In the book Bear, Spirit of the Wild, Nunavutraised wildlife photojournalist Paul Nicklen showcases his collection of North American bear stories and photos, including the grizzly, polar bear, black bear and the rare spirit bear. The book, published by National Geographic, retails for $35.
For those who imagine themselves passing through Earth’s atmospheres and explore space, maybe a gift from NASA will help fuel their daydreams. At shopnasa.com you’ll find a unique collection of space-inspired items. A hand-painted space shuttle ornament sells for $35. The selection and prices vary quite widely, so take a look and see what fits your budget and gift list, and remember to check on shipping timelines.
Chemists will be inspired by ThinkGeek’s radioactive elements glowing coasters set. These pressure-sensitive, battery operated coasters glow when you put a drink on them. The set of four comes in green, orange, red and blue and features radium, plutonium, uranium and thorium. The set sells for $19.99 at thinkgeek.
com.
If you’re really not sure what to get your science or nature nut, a gift certificate from the Telus World of Science will do nicely. This gift gives them the opportunity to browse the gift shop and choose from insect key chains, glow-in-the-dark T-shirts, books, experiments, toys, stuffed animals, CDs, IMAX DVDs and more.