Migrant Birds

Overview

This course explores the fascinating world of the birds that visit Wales during the breeding season before undertaking remarkable migrations to spend the winter in warmer regions of Europe and Africa. Migration is one of the most extraordinary phenomena in the natural world, and this course examines the lives and journeys of around 30 of Wales' most characteristic migratory bird species. Throughout the course, we will study each species in detail, learning how to identify them by sight and sound, and exploring their distinctive plumage, behaviour, and field characteristics. We will investigate where these birds spend the winter, the routes they follow during migration, and the environmental cues that guide their incredible journeys over hundreds or even thousands of kilometres. The course will also examine the breeding biology of each species, including nesting habits, courtship behaviour, breeding success, and the habitats they depend upon in Wales. 

Programme

Utilising a variety of resources and sources, learners will explore the following during the course: The opening sessions provide an introduction to bird migration and the skills needed to study migratory birds effectively. Participants will become familiar with the terminology used throughout the module and the practical techniques employed by ornithologists and birdwatchers. 

Topics include:

• An introduction to the aims, structure and learning outcomes of the module.
• How to keep an effective field observation notebook, including recording weather conditions, behaviour, habitat and other relevant information.
• Key ornithological terminology used in bird identification, ecology and migration studies.
• The use of field guides, identification literature, online resources and bird recording applications.
• Methods of recording observations and how these records contribute to local and national bird monitoring schemes.
• Practical observational techniques, including the use of binoculars and telescopes, recognising bird behaviour, and identifying birds by both sight and sound. 

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Use a field notebook, to describe and record key features and field observations for relevant species and habitats, and how to make your data available so that it can be used for conservation.
2. Identify a range of migrant bird species by sight and sound.
3. Associate various species with specific habitats, and describe their use of these habitats.
4. Understand migratory bird behaviour and different bird migration strategies.
5. Understand the risks of bird migration and why bird conservation is important in safeguarding these species.

Assessments

1. Bird Identification Test (20%)
2. Portfolio of species based on observations, identifications and information drawn from  field work, further tasks and research. (40%)
3. 800 word essay. (40%)

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

• Internet access.
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.