Basic Bird Biology

Target Audience:

Individuals who interact with the public and would like to be able to answer basic bird ecology questions, specifically U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employees who engage with the public and have little or no bird ecology experience. Individuals who would benefit from this course include permits specialists, law enforcement personnel, inspectors, administrators, park rangers, outdoor recreation planners, Wage-Grade employees, those new to the migratory bird program, and anyone who did not receive ornithology in college.

Summary and Objectives:

This extensive survey course on bird biology and ecology is designed to provide participants with the ability to integrate ecological knowledge and thinking into their daily work processes. The goal of this course is to provide enough ecological knowledge to participants so that they are able to handle basic questions from the public or solve problems regarding migratory birds. During the course, participants will engage in hands-on learning about bird morphology, behavior, habitat selection, identification, and regulatory protections. By course end, participants should be able to address the most common bird questions that the Service receives and apply knowledge to permit requests, planning, and visitor programs.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Use their ecological knowledge and background to provide accurate, appropriate responses to basic bird-related questions.
• Solve problems encountered when issuing permits and working with others to conserve migratory birds.

Competency Addressed:

Ecology - Basic, Ornithology - Intermediate, Wildlife Biology - Basic, Natural History - Basic