Birding by Ear
Enjoy the amazing birds around us, without needing to see them!
Birding by Ear meet up participants by Brenna Marsicek/SoWBA
Indigo Bunting singing by Carolyn Lehrke FCC
Birding by Ear as a hobby is perfect for birders of all abilities – new to the hobby or experienced birders, as well as disabled or not! The joy of birding is for everybody and every body! Through our Birding by Ear classes and offerings, co-hosted by Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance and the Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired and held at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center, participants can learn the tools and techniques for identifying birds by their sounds, rather than by sight.
Just as unique as their coloration and shape, bird sounds come in all tunes and pitches. Identifying birds by their song is an exciting activity and skill, and any experienced bird watcher will tell you that most birding is done without actually seeing the bird, but by hearing it.
Birding by Ear offerings are held in spring, summer, and fall, including a Birding by Ear class each May, monthly Birding by Ear meet-ups, and a training to teach field trip leaders how to host accessible birding outings. Find an upcoming Birding by Ear activity below!
Upcoming Birding by Ear activities:
September is a great month to explore New Glarus Woods State Park. Birders of all skill levels are welcome! We will hike the south side of the park through mature woods and restored prairies. Come see what fall migrants are visiting. The park is normally home to a variety of woodpeckers, songbirds, and wildlife such as deer, squirrels and turkeys. Best for hikers in good physical condition.
Photo by Mick Thompson