Course Description
Imagine stepping into your backyard and suddenly becoming aware of a whole world you never fully noticed before--a world alive with color, song, and movement. From the flicker of a Blue Jay's wing to the soft trill of a Chickadee, bird watching transforms even the most ordinary day into something magical. This course will open your eyes to that world, but more importantly, it will show you how to connect with it in ways that are deeply meaningful, exciting, and life-enriching.
This isn't just another course on bird watching; it's a journey into the heart of nature, one that will forever change how you see your surroundings. Whether you're simply curious or already passionate about birds, you'll find that this course is designed to make every moment of observation more rewarding and insightful. What sets this course apart is its deeply personal approach--it's not about memorizing bird species; it's about experiencing them. It's about understanding the delicate ecosystems birds thrive in and how your actions can positively contribute to their survival and well-being.
As you progress through the course, you'll learn not only how to identify birds by sight and song but also how to attract them, feed them properly, and create a sanctuary that invites more feathered friends into your life. You'll uncover the secrets of bird behavior--why they migrate, how they choose their nesting spots, and even the unique ways they communicate with one another. By the end, you'll be able to predict when certain species will arrive and notice the subtle seasonal changes that trigger their behaviors.
But beyond the technical knowledge, this course offers something even more transformative: a deeper connection to the natural world. It's about finding peace in the simple act of watching a bird bathe in a birdbath or marveling at the resilience of migratory species. You'll walk away not just with new skills, but with a sense of purpose, knowing you can make a tangible difference in supporting local wildlife.
Ready to take your place in the wonderful world of bird watching? This course is your gateway--an opportunity not just to observe nature but to truly understand and appreciate it. Sign up today, and let's make your world a little more vibrant, one bird at a time.
- Completely Online
- Self-Paced
- Printable Lessons
- Full HD Video
- 6 Months to Complete
- 24/7 Availability
- Start Anytime
- PC & Mac Compatible
- Android & iOS Friendly
- Accredited CEUs
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Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to contribute to citizen science projects by accurately recording and reporting bird observations during events like the Christmas Bird Count.
- Recognize different species of birds using visual and auditory clues by engaging with a field guide during bird watching activities.
- Demonstrate methods to create a bird-friendly environment at home to attract a variety of bird species.
- Recognize different bird species in various environments by observing their behavior and habitats.
- Identify and describe the key features of a suitable pair of binoculars for bird watching, including magnification and lens diameter.
- Use a field guide to accurately classify at least five bird species observed, noting their distinguishing characteristics and behaviors.
- Demonstrate how to create a homemade bird feeder using pinecones and peanut butter to engage in bird-watching activities.
- Identify three types of bird food and the species they attract to tailor your backyard feeding strategy.
- Demonstrate how proper placement of bird feeders and baths enhances bird safety and increases diversity in a backyard environment.
- Identify and explain two different types of bird feeders and their specific benefits for attracting various bird species.
- Identify specific preferences of different bird species regarding birdhouse design and placement, and implement these specifications to effectively attract desired species.
- Recognize the importance of providing nesting spaces for cavity-nesting birds and how it contributes to their survival amidst declining natural habitats.
- Identify and categorize birds by observing distinct family traits, behavior, and field markings in a natural setting.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Assessment Guide
Assessment | Points |
---|---|
Lesson 1: Assignment | 10 points |
In the beginning | 100 points |
Lesson 1 Exam | 7 points |
Lesson 1 Review Exam | 10 points |
Lesson 2 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 2 Exam | 11 points |
Lesson 2 Review Exam | 19 points |
Lesson 3 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 3 Exam | 7 points |
Lesson 3 Review Exam | 20 points |
Lesson 4 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 4 Exam | 5 points |
Lesson 4 Review Exam | 20 points |
Lesson 5 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 5 Exam | 10 points |
Lesson 5 Review Exam | 20 points |
Lesson 6 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 6 Exam | 8 points |
Lesson 6 Review Exam | 19 points |
Lesson 7 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 7 Exam | 6 points |
Lesson 7 Review Exam | 19 points |
Lesson 8 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 8 Exam | 6 points |
Lesson 8 Review Exam | 20 points |
Lesson 9 Assignment | 10 points |
New Bird | 100 points |
Lesson 9 Exam | 4 points |
Lesson 9 Review Exam | 19 points |
Lesson 10 Assignment | 10 points |
Lesson 10 Review Exam | 19 points |
Final Thoughts | 100 points |
Final Exam | 35 points |
Lesson 11 Review Exam | 20 points |