Vermont is home to close to 200 species of breeding birds. They are ubiquitous and conspicuous in every ecosystem in the state, and their fascinating behavior is readily observed. In this field-based course, you’ll develop a breadth of knowledge and skills to identify and better understand Vermont’s common and not-so-common birdlife.

This course will cover the natural history of birds in Vermont, with a focus on techniques to observe and identify species in the field. Topics will include avian taxonomy and anatomy, breeding and migratory behaviors, and strategies in avian conservation. We’ll explore wetlands, fields, forests, and lakes to see how various species adapt to the challenges presented by different ecosystems. We’ll investigate the diets, foraging ecology, and predator-prey relationships of resident birds, while we seek out species using our local natural areas as migratory stopovers.

A major focus of the course will be the identification of species by sight and sound by scrutinizing field marks and decoding birdsong. You will gain skills to observe and identify birds on your own, to participate in citizen science, and to share your newfound knowledge with others.