Ornithology

With over 10,000 species, birds are the most diverse class of vertebrates, occupying a wide variety of ecological niches on every continent. Their incredible array of colors and sounds have fascinated scientists for centuries, and birds have played culturally significant roles for millennia. We will discuss the evolution, anatomy, physiology, development, behavior, ecology, and conservation of birds globally. We will learn to identify local bird species by sight and sound using a combination of museum specimens and field trips to various local ecosystems. Field experiments will involve testing bird behavior and assessing ecological relationships. Written and oral reports will be expected. (BIOL 0140) 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab.