Since our first session in 1909, we've offered Biology of Birds at the University of Michigan Biological Station. Take this unique field course to learn why it's one of the longest running field ornithology courses in the country.
3 credits
Recommended prerequisites: BIOLOGY 171 or equivalent (e.g. BIOLOGY 195), two college-level courses in biology, or permission of instructor.
Satisfies requirements for: BS, NS, PitE and EEB Field Experience, Lab
Meets: Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Instructor: Co-instructed by Ben Winger and Abby Kimmit
Course Description
Colorful, vocal, and so diverse – birds were the inspiration for our nation’s earliest conservation efforts and remain a centerpiece of endangered species protection today.
Open your eyes to the beautiful world of birds in the wilds of Northern Michigan. Learn how their migration patterns and behaviors are being shaped by climate change and other evolutionary forces. Course includes studies of successful conservation efforts and a research project.
"I genuinely do not know how the class could be made better. It covered so many valuable aspects of bird identification, research, conservation, physiology, behavior, life history, etc., that it was just amazing. It was also accessible for people of a wide range of skill and knowledge levels when they entered the class."
-2018 Birds student
Here! There! Everywhere you look are spectacular Michigan birds. And luckily, this course involves a significant field component.
