Tonight’s Agenda 6:30-6:40 Welcome! »Introductions »Announcements: Make sure Josh or Russ takes a look at your binoculars, see Kara to borrow a pair 6:40-7:10The Art of Birding Part 1 with Russ Schipper 7:10-7:30The Art of Birding Part 2 with Kara Haas 7:30-7:40Break – Green Snacks - borrow binoculars – see Kara 7:40-8:20The Art of Birding Part 2 continued 8:25-8:30Closure Reminder: “homework” assignment Saturday Field trips; Meet at Sanctuary at 7:45 am!

The Art of Birding Russ Schipper, Audubon Society of Kalamazoo and Kara Haas, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary X Science May 1, 2009 Field Trip

Why Learn About Birds? Visible and conspicuous Ubiquitous Great Diversity Contribute Data Pure Enjoyment

Group Birding Etiquette Be courteous to others: Stay with the group Avoid walking in front of others using binoculars Avoid pointing binoculars at homes/ windows Help others to find the bird.

Birding Ethics Act in a way that puts welfare of birds first Act in a way that does not harm environment –Tread lightly, stay on trails, etc. Respect law and rights of others

Tools: Good Observation Skills Rose-breasted Grosbeak Watch the bird... don’t fiddle with your field guide Practice seeing details Look for patterns or conspicuous features or behaviors

The Tools: Field Guides There has never been a better selection

Tool: Field Guides Which guide is right for me? –Features –Pros and Cons

Tools: Binoculars Which one is right for me? All that tiresome terminology –7x35 –Porro prism –Diopter adjustment –Etc. etc. etc. Using Binoculars... a word about Spotting Scopes