The October 2025 issue of Scout Life is fall-ing into mailboxes everywhere, and this month is packed with Halloween surprises and animal adventures.
Look forward to spooky crafts and swimming with sea giants. Plus, Scouts have a chance to weigh in on the important things, like, “What are readers’ favorite doughnuts?” (We already know ghosts prefer “I scream.”)
Read on for a preview of what’s behind the cover.
Cool Jobs features the most popular guy at the zoo
Readers will meet Mike Maslanka, the head of nutrition at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in Washington, D.C. His daily mission is making sure every animal, from the smallest reptile to the tallest giraffe, eats right and eats well. Find out how careful planning and science keep the zoo’s herd thriving.
DIY Halloween candy bowl
Learn how to turn ordinary paper and a balloon into a Halloween-ready candy bowl. This papier-mâché project is simple to make and perfect for holding treats on the most spooktacular night of the year.
Discover the Orienteering merit badge
The Orienteering merit badge introduces Scouts to the art of navigation. Readers will preview the badge that teaches them how to take their bearings with a compass, sharpen outdoor survival skills and find their way on any adventure.
See real Scouts swimming with manatees
Nothing inspires Scouts like reading about the adventures other units embark upon. This is especially true when it comes to outings many Scouts may never dream possible. Enter Troop 9005 of Jacksonville, Florida.
When winter arrives, manatees move into the warm waters of Florida’s rivers and springs. Troop 9005 Scouts got the chance to snorkel alongside these gentle creatures. Bonus: They walked away with a powerful lesson in conservation.
How to read the October issue of Scout Life
Spooky season is here, and so is the October issue of Scout Life! You can dive into the full issue right now in the Scout Life app or read the copy that landed in your mailbox.
Not a subscriber yet? Now’s the perfect time. Scout Life readers stay in Scouting three times longer thanks to the projects and tips that make every season, from Halloween to summer camp, more fun. Subscribe today so you don’t miss out on a single month of excitement.
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