Can YOU identify the oak tree? Half of children could not when presented with four different species to choose from 

• Half of children can no longer recognise an oak tree, research has revealed
• Youngsters were given an image of four trees and asked to point out the oak
• It also found more than a quarter believe lions and crocodiles live wild in the UK 

Half of British youngsters don’t know what an oak tree looks like, an astonishing new research has revealed.

Children were given an image of four trees and asked to point out the oak and only 50 per cent of children who took part got the answer right.

The nationwide survey uncovered some shocking stats on the knowledge UK children have on nature and wildlife.

Even more surprisingly, it turns out that nine-year-olds have a better understanding than children seven years their senior - 54 per cent of children aged nine were able to identify the oak tree versus 49 per cent of 16-year-olds.

A lesson on our furry friends may be in order too. More than a quarter of children believe that lions and crocodiles currently live wild in the UK, with one in ten also thinking that kangaroos roam free.

With thoughts that these animals are out on the loose around the country it is no wonder they’re struggling to get outside. A fact which is further confirmed by a tenth of parents who reveal their child spends less time outdoors in the holidays than they do at school.

Dr Alice Jones Bartoli, Psychologist for outdoor education and adventure provider Kingswood Camps, which carried out the survey, said: ‘These days, it can be easy for tweens and teens to fall into a habit of having indoor hobbies, so perhaps, while shocking, these findings are somewhat expected.

‘Getting outdoors and taking part in physical activities will release those feel-good hormones known as endorphins, which make children feel happier. Not only does being active increase fitness levels but it also helps children get a more restful night’s sleep, which will also help improve moods and thinking skills the following day.

‘Looking at the results from this survey, it is apparent that it would benefit UK children to spend more time outdoors and gain all of the physical, mental and educational benefits that the world has to offer.’

Taking part in outdoor activities can have many positive impacts on children and parents. Camps, like those at Kingswood, have not only physical benefits but educational ones too.

Steve Anderson, head of activities at Kingswood, said: ‘These survey results are quite surprising and show just how much UK children lack adventure. Camps like the ones we offer at Kingswood provide young people with all the tools they need to learn about nature and be inspired to get outside.

‘Being outside increases our energy levels. Theories show that by taking a break from being in front of a screen - something young people are often glued to - and going on a short walk, allows our eyes to have time for a rest and our mind have time to regroup. So when we come back to doing work, we feel more motivated to get it done.’