Online Class: Bird Watching — Food, Feeders and Behavior

Through this course, discover how bird watching goes beyond identification, offering unmatched insights into bird behaviors and seasonal changes. Learn to create sanctuaries that attract and nurture bird life, cultivating a profound appreciation for wildlife conservation.

$95.00
no certificate
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$120.00
with CEU Certificate*
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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 11
    Lessons
  • 35
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 5
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.5
    CEUs
 
 
 

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.

Course Motivation

Imagine stepping outside, and suddenly, your world expands. What was once just a quiet backyard becomes a vibrant, living stage where birds of every color, shape, and size perform. Their songs, flights, and behaviors captivate you, and you realize that this world has been waiting for you all along. This is what bird watching can unlock—a connection to nature that is both exhilarating and profoundly calming. But it’s not just about spotting a bird. It’s about understanding their behaviors, their migratory patterns, and how you can create a sanctuary that attracts them right to your doorstep.

Welcome to a course that promises to transform your everyday experience into something extraordinary. Whether you're a complete beginner or have been a casual bird watcher for years, this course is designed to deepen your knowledge, sharpen your skills, and inspire your love for bird watching like never before. It's not just a course; it's a gateway to an entirely new perspective.

What makes this course special is the holistic approach it takes. It’s not just about identifying different bird species—although you’ll become an expert at that. It’s about learning how to invite these beautiful creatures into your life and environment. You’ll discover the right feeders, birdhouses, and plants that will turn your backyard into a bustling aviary. You’ll learn the secrets of attracting rare species and uncover the joy of observing intricate bird behaviors up close. This course goes beyond just observing; it immerses you in the fascinating lives of birds.

But perhaps the most powerful aspect of this course is the way it helps you to find peace and purpose in nature. Bird watching is more than a hobby—it’s an opportunity to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the world around you. Imagine the sense of fulfillment that comes from nurturing wildlife, contributing to the preservation of species, and creating a space where birds—and your spirit—can thrive.

Unlike other courses that are simply information dumps, this one is crafted to be an engaging journey. You won’t just learn from textbooks or dry tutorials. You’ll explore, practice, and reflect. You’ll be challenged to get out there and start observing right away, whether you live in a city apartment or a rural farmhouse. Every lesson builds on the last, offering you a progressive learning experience that leaves you with tangible, practical skills that you can immediately apply.

By the end of this course, you won’t just know about birds—you’ll feel a deep, personal connection to them. You’ll wake up with excitement, ready to see which new feathered friends might be visiting your yard that day. This course offers you the keys to a lifelong passion that brings joy, calm, and a deeper sense of meaning.

If you’re ready to enrich your life with the beauty and wonder of bird watching, then this is the course for you. Don’t wait. The birds are out there now, and they’re waiting for you to notice. Join today and embark on this transformative journey into the world of birds.

  • 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
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.60 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(663 votes)

Lesson 1. Connecting Generations Through a Shared Love of Birds

Bird watching connects us to nature's beauty and complexity, evolving from a niche hobby to a global activity embraced by millions. This pastime offers joy, discovery, and a peaceful alternative to traditional hunting, encouraging a deeper curiosity about the natural world. 127 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: 8900278rz53785.png
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete: Lesson 1: Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: In the beginning
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Backyard Birding: Inviting Nature to Your Doorstep

From backyards to bustling cities, bird watching is about connecting with the natural world regardless of location. With simple adjustments to your surroundings, such as installing bird feeders and baths, you can attract and observe birds anywhere, adapting the experience to your environment. 40 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Bird Watching Basics

Binoculars and field guides are foundational tools in bird watching, greatly enhancing the ability to spot and understand a variety of bird species. Understanding factors such as magnification, light entry, and comfort allows enthusiasts to appreciate birds' beauty without compromise. 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Nourishing Nature: How to Transform Your Yard into a Bird Buffet

Choosing the right bird food can turn your backyard into a vibrant aviary, inviting colorful species like cardinals and orioles to visit. Through understanding their dietary needs, you provide a sanctuary that not only supports wildlife but also brings natural beauty and joy to your life. 35 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 4 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Welcoming Birds: The Art of Feeder and Bird Bath Placement

Attract a host of colorful bird species to your yard by installing varied bird feeders including platform, hopper, tube, and nectar feeders, each suited for different avian preferences and needs. Complement these with a textured bird bath positioned near foliage for a refreshing and safe spot for birds to bathe and hydrate. 40 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Building Bird Neighborhoods

Purple martins, loving communal living, require unique 'apartment-style' birdhouses placed high and open to thrive. Observing multigenerational colonies adds a dynamic, social element to bird-watching in your backyard. 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. The Art and Science of Bird Identification: Beyond Feathers and Flight

Exploring bird diversity encourages observers to focus on unique identifiers such as family features, color, behavior, and song, easing the challenge of identifying various species. Grasping the role of location, size, and habitat preferences in bird life adds depth to the joy of nature's avian tapestry. 35 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Seasonal Avian Adventures

Bird watching transforms with each season, revealing distinct phases of avian life cycles like migration and mating. Adapting to these natural rhythms enriches your experience, making bird watching a year-long pursuit filled with wonder. 36 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Responding to Bird Crises with Care and Expertise

Fledgling birds often seem abandoned but usually have nearby parents; the best action is observation unless the bird is injured or in danger. Intervention is sometimes needed if the bird is at risk from predators or has a fallen nest. 133 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: New Bird
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. Beyond the Binoculars: Expanding Your Birdwatching Experience

Specialty birding organizations like The Hummingbird Society and The North American Bluebird Society focus on conservation efforts and provide resources for attracting specific bird species. Their dedicated work ensures the protection and understanding of unique avian types for enthusiasts and conservationists alike. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 10 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. Feathers, Flights, and Feasts: Unveiling the Avian Mysteries

Avoid using metal feeders in cold climates to prevent harm to birds, opting for safer options like wood or plastic. Providing nuts at night can attract nocturnal species like flying squirrels, adding unexpected excitement to bird watching. 155 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments
  • Complete Assignment: Final Thoughts
  • Assessment: Final Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam
704
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define key bird watching concepts by identifying at least three distinct bird species and describing their unique characteristics using a field guide within a 30-minute observation session.
  • Demonstrate effective bird watching techniques by engaging in a 20-minute discussion on the benefits of bird watching and its impact on mental well-being, supported by specific examples from personal experiences.
  • Summarize reasons why people watch birds.
  • Describe the best places to watch birds.
  • Describe ways to create a bird-friendly habitat in a backyard, including providing essential resources like food, water, and shelter.
  • Identify various bird species unique to specific environments such as backyards, woodlands, grasslands, seashores, and urban areas.
  • Explain how to use a field guide to accurately identify and understand various bird species, including recognizing characteristics such as behavior and habitat.
  • Identify the key features and benefits of binoculars in enhancing the bird-watching experience by explaining magnification, brightness, focus, and comfort considerations.
  • Summarize the tools used to watch birds.
  • Describe the best practices for feeding birds.
  • Describe the dietary preferences of at least three different bird species and explain how specific food choices attract them to a backyard environment.
  • Identify appropriate types of bird feeders and food combinations for attracting a diverse range of bird species, explaining their effectiveness in providing nutrition and energy.
  • Describe ways to identify birds.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Bird Watching: Food, Feeders and Behavior
Course Number: 8900278
Lessons Rating: 4.60 / 5 Stars (663 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: March 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.5 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Nancy Fillip
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "This was a great teacher and she was wonderful with feedback about questions and ideas in reference to more information." -- Sherry F.
  • "This was the first course I have taken on Universal Class. I was impressed by the course material. The instructor was great - made comments on my assignments and grades. Overall a great experience." -- Mary L.
  • "Nancy is a great instructor. I've had her for 2 courses now and have thoroughly enjoyed them both." -- Kathleen S.
  • "Love her, awesome instructor!" -- Karen W.
  • "Instructor was wonderful." -- Margo L.
  • "Enjoyed this course very much." -- Tracy O.
  • "This course was presented in a very interesting and engaging format. The instructor was informative and pleasant. I enjoyed her inclusion of photographs and quotations that pertained to backyard bird watching. I'm encouraged to continue research on my own with the links she provided." -- janet J.