OSHER 868 - Becoming a Bird Watcher

The key to becoming a bird-watcher is understanding the general impression, size, and shape (GISS) of the bird. The GISS, plus the color pattern, habitat, and song/call are characteristics that lead bird-watchers to accurately identify the bird. This course will be a mix of alternating Wednesday Zoom class lessons and Thursday or Friday in-person field trips. Field trip size is limited to six class members. Beginning bird-watchers will develop skills that help them to classify and identify birds based on plumage, song, behavior, habitat, and season. In-class lessons focus on identifying birds, selecting appropriate gear, how to get involved in local birding groups, participating in citizen science, and online and print resources. This course will feature three field trips to various habitats, one group of six going on Thursdays and one group of six going on Fridays.