Birding By Ear
June 3 @ 8:30 am - 11:30 am
$30.00 – $35.00
This course will take place June 3 and 5, 8:30-11:30 a.m., with Joan Elias, at the Mercer Public Library.
Participants will be exposed to the songs of frequently encountered species in our northern Wisconsin forests and yards. They will learn mnemonics and other tips for remembering songs, as well as learning about tricky birds, such as those who imitate other birds.
Students will learn to identify birds by their songs, and secondarily, by sight. Focus will be on the most common species found in the northern forest and nearby yards. Some of the easily confused species will be given special attention.
Session 1 will begin indoors and move outdoors. We will decide as a group whether more indoor time is desirable for session 2 or whether to spend the entire time outdoors.
Once the trees leaf out in spring, visual observation of birds high in the tree canopy becomes difficult. Some will say ‘there’s an app for that’, but relying on our technology is not always possible or desirable. Having the ability to identify birds by their songs is rewarding and fun!
Requirements: Participants should have a keen interest in identifying northern forest birds by their songs. Good hearing is a must, as the songs of many species are in the high frequency range. Bring binoculars and a notebook.
Dress for the weather, including sturdy walking shoes. Some walking/hiking will occur during the outdoor portions of the classes.
No textbooks or apps are required.
Instructor: Joan Elias
This course may satisfy requirements for Master Naturalist training.
Offline Registration: Download PDF Registration Form, complete and mail in with payment.
Registration Questions? Contact us or call (715) 862-2032 or (715) 476-2881.
Registration Issues/Troubleshooting: If you are registering with one email address for two or more people, please register each person individually (i.e. do not register all at once, but add students one at a time to checkout). If you continue to have difficulty or have another question, please contact us.
Cancellation Notice: Students are encouraged to sign up at least two weeks before the beginning of any Fe University course. Courses with less than 4 students 2 weeks before the start date may be cancelled at instructor/FeU discretion. If you’re interested in a course, please sign up early! Thank you.