Geoff Williamson

Many experienced birders will say that 90% of their birding is done “by ear.” For those conducting censuses and surveys, this skill is especially important, as it enables one to more efficiently and effectively recognize what birds are present on a survey route. But even the casual bird watcher will find ear-birding skills quite useful. In many situations, such as forest and marshland birding, birding by ear is valuable in locating and identifying birds when they are difficult to see. This presentation describes basic concepts in bird vocalizations and provides organizing principles for learning to bird by ear. The talk also discusses the many resources available to the person looking to acquire or improve ear-birding skills.