Bird Study Merit Badge Guide

Bird Study Merit Badge – Birds are fascinating creatures that have captured the imagination of humans for centuries. They are known for their beautiful plumage, melodic songs, and incredible flying abilities.

Their behavior seems weird to humans at times, such as how prairie chickens inflate colored air sacs on their necks and dance for mates or the dipper’s habit of wading under rushing mountain streams to gather insects.

But, perhaps most intriguingly, birds can fly, a skill that has made humans envy for thousands of years. We can fly, of course, but a peregrine falcon plummeting at more than 200 miles per hour or a small hummingbird hanging on wings that beat more than 80 times per second simply cannot compete.

Keep your eyes peeled. Even the most common and known birds may surprise you with their odd behavior. In reality, amateur birders have produced many of the most significant discoveries regarding birds and how they live. By following this passion, you may one day contribute significantly to our knowledge of the natural world.

If you are interested in learning more about these amazing creatures, you might consider earning the Bird Study merit badge.

This badge is designed to teach you about the characteristics, behavior, and habitat of birds, as well as the role they play in our ecosystem. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the requirements for earning the Bird Study merit badge and what you can expect to learn along the way.

Bird Study Merit Badge Requirements

1. Explain the need for bird study and why birds are useful indicators of the quality of the environment. Describe how birds are part of the ecosystem.

2. Show that you are familiar with the terms used to describe birds by sketching or tracing a perched bird and then labeling 15 different parts of the bird. Sketch or trace an extended wing and label six types of wing feathers.

3. Demonstrate that you know how to properly use and care for binoculars, a spotting scope, or a monocular. (a) Explain what the specification numbers mean on binoculars, a spotting scope, or a monocular. (b) Show how to adjust the eyepiece and how to focus for proper viewing. (c) Show how to properly care for and clean the lenses. (d) Describe when and where each type of viewing device would be most effective.

4. Demonstrate that you know how to use a bird field guide. Show your counselor that you are able to understand a range map by locating in the book and pointing out the wintering range, the breeding range, and/or the year-round range of one species of each of the following types of birds: (a) Seabird (b) Plover (c) Falcon or hawk (d) Warbler or vireo (e) Heron or egret (f) Sparrow (g) Nonnative bird (introduced to North America from a foreign country since 1800)

5. Observe and be able to identify at least 20 species of wild birds. Prepare a field notebook, make a separate entry for each species, and record the following information from your field observations and other references. (a) Note the date and time. (b) Note the location and habitat. (c) Describe the bird’s main feeding habitat and list two types of food that the bird is likely to eat. (d) Note whether the bird is a migrant or a summer, winter, or year-round resident of your area.

6. Describe to your counselor how certain orders of birds are uniquely adapted to a specific habitat. In your description, include characteristics such as the size and shape of the following: (a) Beak (b) Body (c) Leg and foot (d) Feathers/plumage

7. Explain the function of a bird’s song. Be able to identify five of the 20 species in your field notebook by song or call alone. For each of these five species, enter a description of the song or call, and note the behavior of the bird making the sound. Note why you think the bird was making the call or song that you heard.

8. Do ONE of the following: (a) Go on a field trip with a local club or with others who are knowledgeable about birds in your area. (1) Keep a list or fill out a checklist of all the birds your group observed during the field trip. (2) Tell your counselor which birds your group saw and why some species were common and some were present in small numbers. (3) Tell your counselor what makes the area you visited good for finding birds. (b) By using a public library, the internet, or contacting the National Audubon Society, find the name and location of the Christmas Bird Count nearest your home and obtain the results of a recent count. (1) Explain what kinds of information are collected during the annual event. (2) Tell your counselor which species are most common, and explain why these birds are abundant. (3) Tell your counselor which species are uncommon, and explain why these were present in small numbers. If the number of birds of these species is decreasing, explain why, and what, if anything, could be done to reverse their decline.

9. Do ONE of the following. For the option you choose, describe what birds you hope to attract, and why. (a) Build a bird feeder and put it in an appropriate place in your yard or another location. (b) Build a birdbath and put it in an appropriate place. (c) Build a backyard sanctuary for birds by planting trees and shrubs for food and cover.

10. Do the following: (a) Explain the differences between extinct, endangered, and threatened. (b) Identify a bird species that is on the endangered or threatened list. Explain what caused their decline. Discuss with your counselor what can be done to reverse this trend and what can be done to help remove the species from the endangered or threatened list.

11. Identify three career opportunities connected to the study of birds. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss with your counselor if this profession might interest you.

The Answer for Requirement Number 1

1. Explain the need for bird study and why birds are useful indicators of the quality of the environment. Describe how birds are part of the ecosystem.

Birds play an important part in ecological balance and are fundamental components of the natural world. They are not only beautiful animals with their diverse colors, patterns, activities, and melodies, but they also serve as crucial markers of environmental health.

One of the primary motivations for studying birds is to obtain a better knowledge of the ecosystem in which they reside. Birds are very sensitive to changes in their environment, such as changes in temperature, land use, and pollution levels.

As a result, studying birds may assist us in monitoring and understanding environmental changes and how they may influence other species as well as the ecosystem as a whole.

Birds are good indicators of environmental quality because they are simple to see, have particular habitat needs, and are sensitive to changes in their environment. Changes in bird populations, such as population decreases or the extinction of some species, may warn us to environmental issues such as habitat degradation, pollution, or climate change.

Birds contribute to the ecology in numerous ways. They perform an important role in pollination, seed distribution, and pest control. Some birds are predators that help regulate the numbers of other species such as insects, rodents, and small mammals.

Birds also play an important part in maintaining the equilibrium of food webs by devouring other animals or plants and being devoured by other animals. Overall, birds are key markers of ecosystem health and an essential element of the natural world.

The Answer for Requirement Number 2

2. Show that you are familiar with the terms used to describe birds by sketching or tracing a perched bird and then labeling 15 different parts of the bird. Sketch or trace an extended wing and label six types of wing feathers.

I can provide you with a list of the 15 different parts of a bird that are commonly labeled in bird anatomy diagrams:

1. Beak
2. Head
3. Eye
4. Crown
5. Nape
6. Throat
7. Breast
8. Belly
9. Flank
10. Wing
11. Primary feathers
12. Secondary feathers
13. Tail
14. Rump
15. Legs/Feet

In terms of wing feathers, here are six types that are commonly identified:

1. Primary feathers
2. Secondary feathers
3. Tertial feathers
4. Alula feathers
5. Coverts
6. Rectrices (tail feathers)

Each of these types of wing feathers has its own unique structure and function that contributes to a bird’s ability to fly. Here’s a brief description of each type:

1. Primary feathers – these are the largest and outermost feathers on a bird’s wing, attached to the hand bones. They provide most of the lifting and propulsion during flight.
2. Secondary feathers – these are the smaller feathers attached to the forearm bones. They help to control the bird’s direction and speed in flight.
3. Tertial feathers – these are the smaller feathers between the primary and secondary feathers. They help to smooth out the wing’s surface and improve aerodynamics.
4. Alula feathers – these are the small feathers at the base of the primaries that can be raised or lowered to control airflow over the wing during takeoff and landing.
5. Coverts – these are the feathers that cover the bases of the primary and secondary feathers, providing insulation and protection for the wing.
6. Rectrices (tail feathers) – these are the feathers at the end of the tail that help with steering and maneuvering during flight. They can also play a role in courtship displays and other visual communication.

In addition to the six different kinds of flying feathers, the form of the wing, the arrangement of the feathers, and the mobility of the wing joints all play significant roles in a bird’s ability to fly.

The wing’s form may shift according to the bird’s habits and preferred method of flying. Long-distance or high-altitude fliers, such as birds, often have thinner, longer wings that are designed for maximum efficiency in flight. Short-distance fliers and hoverers, on the other hand, often have wider, shorter wings that allow for more agility.

Some bird species have more streamlined or sleek feathers, while others have more frayed or ruffled feathers that give greater lift or control, and these differences may even be seen within the same species.

Finally, the wing joints’ adaptability enables birds to alter the angle and shape of their wings to achieve optimal flying performance in a variety of environments.

The complexity and variety of the structure and function of a bird’s wing and feathers are indicative of the wide range of requirements and capabilities across bird species.

Ornithologists and biologists may learn more about birds’ adaptations to their habitats and the process of evolution by focusing on these characteristics.

Also Read: Mammal Study Merit Badge

The Answer for Requirement Number 3 (a,b,c,d)

3. Demonstrate that you know how to properly use and care for binoculars, a spotting scope, or a monocular. (a) Explain what the specification numbers mean on binoculars, a spotting scope, or a monocular. (b) Show how to adjust the eyepiece and how to focus for proper viewing. (c) Show how to properly care for and clean the lenses. (d) Describe when and where each type of viewing device would be most effective.

(a) The specification numbers on binoculars, spotting scopes, or monoculars typically refer to two main factors:

• Magnification: This is the first number in the specification and refers to how much larger the object will appear compared to the naked eye. For example, a 10x magnification means that the object will appear 10 times larger than it would without any optical aid.
• Objective lens diameter: This is the second number in the specification and refers to the diameter of the front lens in millimeters. A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter, resulting in a brighter and clearer image.

(b) To adjust the eyepiece for proper viewing, first, adjust the spacing between the eyepieces to match the distance between your eyes (interpupillary distance).

Then, adjust the diopter on one of the eyepieces to compensate for any differences in vision between your eyes. This is typically done by looking through the binoculars or spotting the scope at a distant object and adjusting the diopter until the image appears sharp and clear.

To focus for proper viewing, first, adjust the focus knob to bring the object into view. Then, fine-tune the focus by adjusting the diopter and focus knob until the image appears sharp and clear.

(c) To properly care for and clean the lenses, use a soft-bristled brush or lens blower to remove any dust or debris.

Then, use a microfiber cloth or lens cleaning solution to gently wipe the lenses in a circular motion, starting from the center and working your way outward. Avoid using your breath or any abrasive materials, as these can damage the lens coating.

(d) Each type of viewing device can be effective in different situations:

• Binoculars: These are ideal for birdwatching, nature observation, and other activities where you need to scan a large area quickly and easily. They are also portable and easy to use, making them a popular choice for outdoor activities.
• Spotting scopes: These are ideal for observing wildlife, landscapes, and other objects that are too far away to see clearly with binoculars. They offer higher magnification and a brighter image, but they are typically larger and heavier than binoculars and require a tripod for stability.
• Monoculars: These are ideal for people who want a compact and portable option for on-the-go viewing. They offer similar magnification and image quality to binoculars but with a smaller and lighter design. They are ideal for hiking, backpacking, or other activities where weight and size are a concern.

The Answer for Requirement Number 4

4. Demonstrate that you know how to use a bird field guide. Show your counselor that you are able to understand a range map by locating in the book and pointing out the wintering range, the breeding range, and/or the year-round range of one species of each of the following types of birds: (a) Seabird (b) Plover (c) Falcon or hawk (d) Warbler or Vireo (e) Heron or egret (f) Sparrow (g) Nonnative bird (introduced to North America from a foreign country since 1800)

To use a bird field guide:

1. Start by identifying the bird you want to observe. Observe the bird’s size, color, shape, and behavior.
2. Find the appropriate section in the field guide based on the bird’s geographic location and habitat.
3. Narrow down the possibilities by looking at the bird’s physical characteristics and comparing them to the illustrations and descriptions in the guide.
4. Use the range maps to help confirm the bird’s identity and learn more about its distribution.

Here are the wintering, breeding, and/or year-round ranges of one species of each type of bird:

• (a) Seabird: Common Murre (winter range: coastal areas of Alaska and Canada, breeding range: coastal areas of Alaska and Canada, year-round range: coastal areas of Alaska, Canada, and the Pacific Northwest)
• (b) Plover: Piping Plover (winter range: southeastern coast of the United States, breeding range: northeastern and Great Lakes regions of the United States and eastern Canada, year-round range: Gulf Coast and Caribbean islands)
• (c) Falcon or hawk: Red-tailed Hawk (winter range: southern United States and Mexico, breeding range: western and central North America, year-round range: western and central North America)
• (d) Warbler or Vireo: Black-throated Green Warbler (winter range: Caribbean and Central America, breeding range: northeastern United States and eastern Canada, year-round range: northeastern United States)
• (e) Heron or egret: Great Egret (winter range: southern United States and Mexico, breeding range: eastern and southern United States, year-round range: southern United States and Mexico)
• (f) Sparrow: Song Sparrow (winter range: southern United States and Mexico, breeding range: northern and western North America, year-round range: most of North America)
• (g) Nonnative bird: House Sparrow (winter range: most of the United States, breeding range: most of the United States, year-round range: most of the United States)

The Answer for Requirement Number 5

5. Observe and be able to identify at least 20 species of wild birds. Prepare a field notebook, make a separate entry for each species, and record the following information from your field observations and other references. (a) Note the date and time. (b) Note the location and habitat. (c) Describe the bird’s main feeding habitat and list two types of food that the bird is likely to eat. (d) Note whether the bird is a migrant or a summer, winter, or year-round resident of your area.

To observe and identify at least 20 species of wild birds:

1. Choose a variety of habitats to visit, such as forests, wetlands, grasslands, and urban areas.
2. Bring along a field guide and binoculars to help with identification.
3. Record your observations in a field notebook, making a separate entry for each species.
4. For each entry, record the following information:

(a) Date and time: Note the date and time of your observation.

(b) Location and habitat: Note the location of your observation and the habitat, such as forest, wetland, or urban park.

(c) Feeding habitat and diet: Describe the bird’s main feeding habitat, such as on the ground, in trees, or in water, and list two types of food that the bird is likely to eat. For example, a Northern Cardinal might feed on seeds and insects.

(d) Resident or migrant: Note whether the bird is a resident of your area year-round, a summer or winter resident, or a migrant passing through.

Here are entries for five different bird species as an example:

1. American Goldfinch

• Date and time: May 15, 9:00 AM
• Location and habitat: Urban park with trees and grassy areas
• Feeding habitat and diet: Feeding on dandelion seeds in grassy areas, also eating sunflower seeds from nearby bird feeders
• Resident or migrant: Year-round resident

2. Red-tailed Hawk

• Date and time: April 20, 11:00 AM
• Location and habitat: Forested area near a river
• Feeding habitat and diet: Perched in a tree overlooking a field, hunting for small mammals such as rodents and rabbits
• Resident or migrant: Year-round resident

3. Canada Goose

• Date and time: November 5, 3:00 PM
• Location and habitat: Wetland area with open water and surrounding grassy fields
• Feeding habitat and diet: Feeding in the grassy fields on leftover crops, also grazing on aquatic vegetation in the open water
• Resident or migrant: Winter resident

4. Baltimore Oriole

• Date and time: June 10, 8:00 AM
• Location and habitat: Urban park with mature trees
• Feeding habitat and diet: Feeding on insects and nectar from flowering trees
• Resident or migrant: Summer resident

5. Killdeer

• Date and time: March 30, 5:00 PM
• Location and habitat: Grassy area near a small pond
• Feeding habitat and diet: Foraging on the ground for insects and small invertebrates
• Resident or migrant: Summer resident

The Answer for Requirement Number 6

6. Describe to your counselor how certain orders of birds are uniquely adapted to a specific habitat. In your description, include characteristics such as the size and shape of the following: (a) Beak (b) Body (c) Leg and foot (d) Feathers/plumage

Birds are adapted to specific habitats through various physical characteristics, including the size and shape of their beaks, bodies, legs and feet, and feathers or plumage. Here are a few examples of how certain orders of birds are adapted to their habitats:

1. Woodpeckers (order Piciformes) – Woodpeckers are adapted to live in trees, with several physical characteristics that allow them to climb and cling to bark, excavate nest cavities, and search for insects inside the wood. They have strong, chisel-like bills that are longer than most other bird species, which allows them to bore into wood. They also have sharp claws and stiff tails that help them to balance on vertical surfaces.
2. Shorebirds (order Charadriiformes) – Shorebirds are adapted to live on beaches, mudflats, and other intertidal areas. They have long, thin beaks that allow them to probe deep into the sand or mud for food such as worms and small crustaceans. Their bodies are streamlined and lightweight, which allows them to move quickly and easily over sand and mud. Their legs and feet are long and slender, which helps them to wade in shallow water and search for food. Their feathers are also adapted to their habitat, often being water-resistant to help them stay dry.
3. Birds of prey (order Accipitriformes) – Birds of prey are adapted to hunting and catching live prey, such as birds, rodents, and fish. They have sharp, hooked beaks that allow them to tear apart their prey and strong, muscular bodies that enable them to fly and maneuver quickly. They also have strong legs and talons, which they use to capture and hold onto their prey.
4. Hummingbirds (order Apodiformes) – Hummingbirds are adapted to feeding on nectar from flowers, which requires a specialized bill shape and size. Their bills are long and thin, with a slight curve, which allows them to insert deep into flowers to reach the nectar. They have small bodies and wings that beat rapidly, allowing them to hover in front of flowers and maneuver quickly to avoid predators. Their feathers are often brightly colored, which helps them attract mates and defend their territory.

Overall, the physical characteristics of birds are closely tied to their habitat and way of life and are often uniquely adapted to their environment. By observing these physical characteristics, we can gain insights into the natural history and behavior of different bird species.

The Answer for Requirement Number 7

7. Explain the function of a bird’s song. Be able to identify five of the 20 species in your field notebook by song or call alone. For each of these five species, enter a description of the song or call, and note the behavior of the bird making the sound. Note why you think the bird was making the call or song that you heard.

The function of a bird’s song is multifaceted and can serve a variety of purposes. One of the primary functions is communication, both between individuals of the same species and between males and females during courtship.

Additionally, a bird’s song can serve to establish and defend territory, warn of predators, and attract mates.

Here are five species of birds and descriptions of their songs or calls:

1. American Robin – The American Robin’s song is a series of clear, melodious notes that ascend and then descend in pitch. The male sings to establish and defend its territory and to attract a mate.
2. Black-capped Chickadee – The Black-capped Chickadee’s call is a series of clear, whistled notes that sound like “fee-bee-ee.” This call is used to establish and maintain contact with other members of its flock.
3. Northern Cardinal – The Northern Cardinal’s song is a clear, whistled tune that sounds like “birdie, birdie, birdie.” The male sings to establish and defend its territory and to attract a mate.
4. Song Sparrow – The Song Sparrow’s song is a series of clear, whistled notes that vary in pitch and tone. The male sings to establish and defend its territory and to attract a mate.
5. Red-winged Blackbird – The Red-winged Blackbird’s call is a clear, melodious “conk-a-ree” that is often heard in wetland habitats. The male sings to establish and defend its territory and to attract a mate.

When listening to a bird’s song or call, it is important to observe the behavior of the bird making the sound. For example, if a male bird is singing loudly and repeatedly from a high perch, it is likely trying to establish and defend its territory.

Alternatively, if a bird is giving a series of short, sharp calls, it may be a warning of the presence of a predator. By paying attention to the context in which a bird is making a sound, we can gain insight into its behavior and the purpose of its vocalizations.

The Answer for Requirement Number 8

8. Do ONE of the following: (a) Go on a field trip with a local club or with others who are knowledgeable about birds in your area. (1) Keep a list or fill out a checklist of all the birds your group observed during the field trip. (2) Tell your counselor which birds your group saw and why some species were common and some were present in small numbers. (3) Tell your counselor what makes the area you visited good for finding birds. (b) By using a public library, the internet, or contacting the National Audubon Society, find the name and location of the Christmas Bird Count nearest your home and obtain the results of a recent count. (1) Explain what kinds of information are collected during the annual event. (2) Tell your counselor which species are most common, and explain why these birds are abundant. (3) Tell your counselor which species are uncommon, and explain why these were present in small numbers. If the number of birds of these species is decreasing, explain why, and what, if anything, could be done to reverse their decline.

The Christmas Bird Count is an annual bird census conducted by volunteers throughout the Americas. The event typically takes place over a 24-hour period between December 14 and January 5.

The goal of the count is to identify and count as many individual birds and species as possible within a designated area.

During the Christmas Bird Count, volunteers collect information about the number and species of birds they observe, as well as the location, habitat, and weather conditions. This information is compiled and used to assess the health of bird populations and track changes in distribution and abundance over time.

The most common species observed during a Christmas Bird Count vary depending on the location and habitat.

However, some of the most common species across North America include the Northern Cardinal, Black-capped Chickadee, American Robin, and European Starling. These birds are often abundant because they are adaptable to a wide range of habitats and are able to tolerate human disturbance.

Less common species observed during a Christmas Bird Count may be present in small numbers due to habitat loss, changes in climate, or other factors that impact their survival and reproduction.

If a species is declining, there may be a need for conservation efforts such as habitat restoration, protection, and management, or research to better understand the cause of the decline.

The Answer for Requirement Number 9

9. Do ONE of the following. For the option you choose, describe what birds you hope to attract, and why. (a) Build a bird feeder and put it in an appropriate place in your yard or another location. (b) Build a birdbath and put it in an appropriate place. (c) Build a backyard sanctuary for birds by planting trees and shrubs for food and cover.

For this 9th requirement maybe the video below can help you complete the requirements.

The Answer for Requirement Number 10

10. Do the following: (a) Explain the differences between extinct, endangered, and threatened. (b) Identify a bird species that is on the endangered or threatened list. Explain what caused their decline. Discuss with your counselor what can be done to reverse this trend and what can be done to help remove the species from the endangered or threatened list.

(a) The terms extinct, endangered, and threatened are used to describe the status of species in relation to their risk of extinction.

• Extinct species are those that no longer exist in the wild or in captivity.
• Endangered species are those that are at a high risk of extinction in the near future if conservation measures are not taken.
• Threatened species are those that are likely to become endangered in the near future if conservation measures are not taken.

(b) One example of a bird species that is on the endangered list is the California Condor. The decline of this species was caused by habitat loss, hunting, and exposure to toxins like DDT.

In the 1980s, there were only 27 individuals left in the wild, and a captive breeding program was initiated to help save the species. Today, there are over 400 California Condors, with approximately half of them living in the wild.

To help remove the California Condor from the endangered list, ongoing conservation efforts include habitat restoration and protection, captive breeding, monitoring and research, and public education and outreach.

Additionally, reducing exposure to toxins and reducing human-caused threats, such as power line collisions and lead poisoning, are important steps to ensure the survival of this iconic species.

The Answer for Requirement Number 11

11. Identify three career opportunities connected to the study of birds. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss with your counselor if this profession might interest you.

Three career opportunities connected to the study of birds are:

1. Ornithologist: An ornithologist is a scientist who studies birds. They may specialize in areas such as bird behavior, ecology, physiology, or evolution. Ornithologists may work for universities, research institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies. They typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology or a related field, and may also have a Ph.D. for more advanced research positions.
2. Wildlife Biologist: A wildlife biologist is a scientist who studies wildlife, including birds. They may work in conservation or management, helping to protect and manage habitats, monitor populations, and conduct research to better understand wildlife. Wildlife biologists may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies. They typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in wildlife biology or a related field, and may also have a Ph.D. for more advanced research positions.
3. Environmental Educator: An environmental educator is a professional who helps others learn about the natural world and environmental issues. They may work for schools, non-profit organizations, government agencies, or outdoor education centers. Environmental educators may teach classes or lead field trips about birds and other wildlife, as well as about environmental conservation and sustainability. They typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental education or a related field, and may also have teaching or outdoor education experience.

Summary

In conclusion, the study of birds is an important field that provides valuable insights into the health of our environment and ecosystems.

Through birdwatching, individuals can learn about bird identification, behavior, and habitat, and contribute to citizen science efforts such as the Christmas Bird Count. Additionally, the study of birds offers various career opportunities, including ornithology, wildlife management, and conservation.

For more information on bird study, one can visit the website of the National Audubon Society at https://www.audubon.org/birding. This website offers a wealth of resources on bird identification, conservation, and citizen science efforts.