This extensive survey course on bird biology and ecology is designed to provide a participant with the ability to integrate ecological knowledge and thinking into their daily work process. The goal of the course is to provide enough ecological knowledge to individuals who encounter the public to be able to handle basic questions or problems regarding migratory birds. During the course, you will have hands-on learning about bird morphology, behavior, habitat selection, identification, and regulatory protections. By course end, you should be able to address the most common bird questions that FWS receives and apply knowledge to permit requests, planning, and visitor programs.

Objective: The purpose of this course is to equip FWS employees with the knowledge and background needed to provide accurate and appropriate responses to basic bird related questions and solve problems encountered in issuing permits and working with others to conserve migratory birds.

Target Audience: This course is designed for individuals who interact with the public and would like to be able to answer basic bird ecology questions. We are targeting FWS employees with little to no bird ecology experience who need to answer questions from or have other interaction with the public. Individuals that would benefit from this course include permits specialists, law enforcement, inspectors, administration, park rangers, outdoor recreation planners, wage-grade employees, those new to the migratory bird program, and anyone who did not receive ornithology in college.