The Scientific Wonder of Birds

Overview — Course No. 7814

Explore the fascinating world of birds with biologist and expert birder instructor. The Scientific Wonder of Birds offers insights into avian physiology, biology, intelligence, and behavior. Through 12 lectures, discover the evolution, science, and lives of birds, covering topics from flight and navigation to mating and parenting.

Video Lessons

01: Birds and Dinosaurs: The Origin of Flight

Understand the connection between birds and dinosaurs, and how birds evolved from theropod dinosaurs.

Duration: 32 min

02: Birds and Boeings: The Magic of Flight

Learn about the aerodynamics of bird flight, wing structure, and feathers.

Duration: 29 min

03: Burning Bright: Avian Adaptations for Flight

Explore the physiological adaptations that enable birds to fly, including high metabolism and efficient respiratory systems.

Duration: 29 min

04: Orientation, Navigation, Migration: Bird Road Trips

Discover how birds navigate during migration, using visual landmarks, magnetic fields, and celestial cues.

Duration: 26 min

05: Bird Brains: Tool Wielders and Snack Stealers

Investigate bird intelligence, including tool use, memory, and complex spatial mapping.

Duration: 26 min

06: Birds of a Feather: Flocking and Foraging

Study the behavior of birds in flocks and colonies, and the benefits of group foraging.

Duration: 29 min

07: Avian Turf Wars: Defending a Territory

Learn about territorial behavior in birds, including display behaviors and defense strategies.

Duration: 25 min

08: Bird Songs and Calls: Music with a Message

Explore the phenomenon of birdsong, including production, learning, and functions.

Duration: 26 min

09: Avian Mating: Lady’s Choice

Understand mate choice in birds, including female testing and male displays.

Duration: 25 min

10: Avian Mating: Singles Bars and Bachelor Pads

Investigate polygyny in birds, including lekking and courtship displays.

Duration: 24 min

11: Nests and Eggs: A Home in the Sticks

Learn about bird nesting, egg laying, and incubation.

Duration: 28 min

12: Parental Care: Bird Family and Friends

Explore parental care in birds, including feeding, fledgling education, and communal breeding.

Duration: 29 min