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Northern Ecology

Discovering the Language of Birds

Course Overview

We call them songs, but in reality, those sweet bird chirps and calls are more than a happy little tune on a spring day. Birds are “saying” a lot with all the vocalizations they make. Explore the world of bird language and discover the difference between a comfortable bird and a bird that is in full alarm mode. Learning bird language will open up a whole new understanding of why birds sing and call, and lead to a deeper connection to these wild inhabitants of our natural world. No previous experience or identification skills are needed, but participants should be able to hike distances of up to a mile over uneven terrain. Youth ages 14-15 are welcome to register with a full-paying adult (a 25% tuition discount applies to the youth student); ages 16+ may register on their own, but will be responsible for transportation to the field sites. 

Required Tools 

  • Clothing, footwear and any gear you need to be comfortable outdoors on the North Shore in the spring. This might include rain gear, sun protection, bug protection, and warm layers.
  • Lunch, snacks, water bottle, and something to carry them in. Our timing will depend on the birds; please bring what you need to stay fueled throughout the day. 

Optional Tools 

  • Note taking materials
  • Binoculars

Currently Scheduled Sessions

Sat, May 31st, 2025
8am-3pm
Instructor: Michael Karns
Sun, Jun 8th, 2025
8am-3pm
Instructor: Michael Karns