Bird Observation Challenge
|
|
|
|
STEP 1: OBSERVATION
Birds can be observed from indoors or outdoors. Feeders provide an excellent opportunity for observation. Binoculars or a spotting scope for young birders offer a steady view for observation. If you do not have access to an outdoor space with bird habitat there are a variety of alternative bird resources that you can use! |
Bird Resources for Observation
When you can't get to the birds, there are resources available to bring the birds to you!
(Left to Right)
* Nature magazines like National Geographic for KIDS and Ranger Rick can be purchased as a monthly subscription or checked out as an eBook from your local library.
* Art books show step-by-step directions for drawing by starting with basic shapes.
* A field guide, like the Kaufman Field Guide to Birds of North America by Kenn Kaufman, is an essential resource.
* The Peterson Reference Guide series offers comprehensive species accounts like Owls of North America and the Caribbean by Scott Weidensaul.
* Web Cams - if you have internet access then you have access to a variety of web cams! The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has an All Cams page www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/all-cams/
When you can't get to the birds, there are resources available to bring the birds to you!
(Left to Right)
* Nature magazines like National Geographic for KIDS and Ranger Rick can be purchased as a monthly subscription or checked out as an eBook from your local library.
* Art books show step-by-step directions for drawing by starting with basic shapes.
* A field guide, like the Kaufman Field Guide to Birds of North America by Kenn Kaufman, is an essential resource.
* The Peterson Reference Guide series offers comprehensive species accounts like Owls of North America and the Caribbean by Scott Weidensaul.
* Web Cams - if you have internet access then you have access to a variety of web cams! The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has an All Cams page www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/all-cams/
STEP 2: DOCUMENT
Capture what you are observing with a field sketch or photograph. Don't worry if your drawings aren't fabulous works of art! Just do your best to capture the key field marks you see on the bird. Try sketching the American Kestrel picture here for practice! |
STEP 3: SHARE YOUR OBSERVATION
Email: info@ohioyoungbirders.org with "Bird Observation Challenge" in the subject line. Or Postage Mail: Bird Observation Challenge, c/o BSBO, 13551 W. St. Rt. 2, Oak Harbor, OH 434449 Images can be scanned and emailed or you can take a picture with your phone and send the image by email. Please include the following information with your submission- Your Name: Bird Species Observed: Location: Something fun or new you learned while observing your bird: Black Swamp Bird Observatory will create a gallery with all of the Bird Observation Challenges that we receive! |