Ornithology. Cr. 4

Neil P. Bernstein,
Mount Mercy College

The biology, ecology, and behavior of birds with emphasis on field studies of local avifauna. Group projects stress techniques of population analysis and methodology for behavioral, ecological, and population studies. Meets May 18 to June 12, 2009.

Participants should bring center-focus binoculars in good working order, preferably 7x35, 8x40, or 7x50. Compact or non-center focus binoculars can be frustrating and are not advisable. If in doubt, please contact the professor for advice. The required field guide for the class is: Birds of Eastern and Central North America (5th edition or higher) by Roger Tory Peterson. The Birder's Handbook by Ehrlich, Dobkin, and Wheye is also required.  Both should be purchased before arriving at Lakeside. Other items you should bring include sunglasses, broad-rimmed hats, insect repellent, sun shield, raingear, several changes of shoes (tennis shoes or boots) or an old pair of shoes that you don't mind getting wet, rubber boots, notebook, plenty of paper and pencils, and a statistical calculator. Tentatively, there will be a four- to five-day field trip. Field trip fee: $25.