Observing Bird Behavior

suggested for grades 2 - 12

Overview

Observing bird behavior can be a fun and fascinating way to build observation skills, practice careful note taking, and more! Using the below videos taken in our Nature Gardens, we can get up close and personal with some of our local native birds.

Using a nature journal or piece of paper, jot down your observations:

• What's going on in each video?
• What do you see that makes you say that?
• What more can you find?

For further birding observations, check out this video from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Bird Academy.

Black Phoebe

The black phoebe has a black "hoodie" (crested) head with a white belly. They often "sally" (rush out, usually to catch insects, then return to the same place). Look for their mud nests near the Rotunda entrance at the Museum! Their call sounds like their name: "phee bee"

American Crow

The American crow is all black with a rounded tail. They forage for food in many places, including trash bins and parking lots. Their call sounds like "caw"!