We see birds foraging on our lawns and hear them singing in our backyards, but are birds important to us? Absolutely! Beyond being lovely to look at and hear, learning about birds helps us to better understand the requirements of healthy ecosystems that support all life on earth.

Ornithology is the study of birds. The goal of this class is to give students an understanding of the science of birds. Students will learn about bird evolution, characteristics, behaviors, adaptations, conservation efforts, and more. This class is ongoing, so students can join at any time. Each class is presented independently, so learners can drop in without feeling lost. This class is lecture-based and presented in slides, pictures, and video clips. 

Class Schedule
Sep 1 - Sep 7	        Origin of Birds & Evolution - A look into the fossil record of birds.
Sep 8 - Sep 14	Characteristics & Classification - What makes a bird a bird and its scientific classification.
Sep 15 - Sep 21	Anatomy - The internal and external morphology of birds.
Sep 22 - Sep 28	Physiology - How anatomy works to allow respiration, digestion, and circulation with the energy demands of flight.
Sep 29 - Oct 5	Physiology II 
Oct 6 - Oct 12	Feathers - The evolution of feathers and how they support flight, thermoregulation, waterproofing, and ornamental displays
Oct 13 - Oct 19	Feathers II
Oct 20 - Oct 26	Flight - Mechanics and how different wing shapes and flight patterns allow for flight
Oct 27 - Nov 2	Flight II
Nov 3 - Nov 9	Feeding & Foraging - Adaptations and behaviors for accessing food
Nov 10 - Nov 16	Carnivory
Nov 17 - Nov 23	Herbivory I
Nov 24 - Nov 30	Herbivory II
Dec 1 - Dec 7	        Sociality: Territory Defense
Dec 8 - Dec 14	Sociality: Cooperation 
Dec 15 - Dec 21	Sociality: Other Advantages
Dec 22 - Dec 28	Songs & Calls: How and why birds sing
Dec 29 - Jan 4	Songs & Calls II

More topics will be added as we go.