Becoming a Bird Watcher
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

The key to becoming a bird watcher is understanding the general impression, size and shape (GISS) of the bird. The GISS, plus the color pattern, habitat, and song/call are characteristics that lead bird watchers to accurately identify the bird. This class is a mix of in-class lessons and field trips. Beginning bird watchers develop skills that allow them to classify and identify birds based on plumage, song, behavior, habitat, and season. In-class lessons focus on identifying birds, selecting good gear, getting involved in local birding groups, participating in community science activities, and selected online and print resources; there are three field trips to various habitats.