Bird Identification Class

Test your bird ID skills

Are you new to birding in Florida? Wondering where to begin?

Join Manatee County’s foremost and most entertaining team of experienced birders as they discuss the art and science of bird watching as no one else can.

Learn about bird identification, choosing and using binoculars and field guides, and much more.

Instruction takes place BOTH in a classroom via zoom and on 2 full-day field trips to the best birding spots in the area with the best birders in the county.

· Learn to develop a practiced eye and ear.

· Meet new friends and change the way you spend time outdoors.

· Learn which birds live in key birding hot spots…and why they chose those habitats.

Be forewarned: this class has hooked hundreds to the lifelong adventure of bird watching!

  • Leader: Steve Black, Audubon Master Birder

  • Additional Classroom Instructors: Mike & Nancy Barnes

2023 BIRD IDENTIFICATION COURSE — Living in Florida is a natural way to become a “birder” and enjoy an activity that can be shared with the family. You’ll learn from master birders who love to share tips on how to identify different types of birds, habits and their habitats. All four classes & field trips are included in this course.

Class sessions will be held in-person and via zoom. Classroom sessions will be held at First United Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11 Ave W Palmetto. Zoom meeting links will be sent via email to all registered participants. Here are the following 2023 session dates:

  • Tuesday, February 21st, 2023 at 7:00-8:30 PM

  • Thursday, February 23rd, 2023 at 7:00-8:30 PM

  • Tuesday, February 28th, 2023 at 7:00-8:30 PM

  • Thursday, March 2nd, 2023 at 7:00-8:30 PM

There are 2 full day field trips that start early (7am) to be held on Saturdays, February 25th and March 4th. Field trip locations and instructions will be sent to you via email once you register.

During these field trips you'll be in the field with some of the best bird spotters in Manatee County, PLUS you'll visit different habitats so you'll see a wide variety of species in some of the best birding locations. You'll to get practice spotting birds, and applying the species identification tips. Identifying birds is a skill that will improve more & more as you continue your fun while birding. Please note all precautions against COVID-19, as told to you by your instructor are mandatory, including wearing a mask.

REGISTRATION:

Cost:

  • $40 per seat for Manatee Audubon members who have already paid their 2023 membership dues.

  • $65 for non-members (which includes your 2023 Manatee Audubon membership dues and 1 seat).

Because of the popularity of this course, we highly recommend securing your seat by signing up for the course early. You can sign up in the following ways:

  • Mail in Check to PO Box 445, Bradenton, FL 34206: You can make checks payable to Manatee County Audubon Society; please include your email on the memo line.

  • Pay Online through PayPal by using the link below; simply select the appropriate description for what course you are registering for. You can pay with your credit card or your PayPal Account.

Questions should be directed to Manatee Audubon at our email manateeaudubon@gmail.com.