Bird Identification: an introduction

An understanding of birds and how to identify them is a useful field skill. This module will introduce students to basic bird physiology and topography, including the ability to identify key morphological features. It will explore various habitats for birds and which species may be more common within different settings. Having a working knowledge of bird identification is important for a range of ecology careers and sectors, from Ecological Surveyor to Ranger and any industry likely to work in close contact with birds, including forestry, the built environment and engineering. This is a broad introductory course, so perfect for a beginner, and will be followed by a number of more specialised bird identification modules for those students who wish to broaden their knowledge further.

Bird Identification can be studied as a stand-alone course, but it is also a key module for the Certificate of Higher Education in Field Ecology at Aberystwyth University. This online, self-paced learning course enables students to study from home while participating in an online learning community. The course is delivered through Blackboard, the virtual learning environment, and will include a minimum of one live webinar alongside the asynchronous weekly activity.
Assessments
1. Bird Identification Test (20%)
2. Written Assignment 1500 words (80%)

Note

This module is at CQFW Level 4