Ornithology

Ornithology covers all aspects of bird biology, including migration, physiology, conservation and vocalizations.

Birds are familiar to everyone. You can enjoy them at any level, whether you’re watching them at a backyard feeder or conducting standardized surveys by ear in the Andes. 

Despite this, many of the world’s approximately 10,000 bird species are poorly known. 

This even extends to common backyard birds. For example, scientists are still studying the function of different types of Black-capped Chickadee songs. 

The Department of Ornithology offers opportunities for students to learn about the discipline in-depth. Interested students are encouraged to investigate the Adopt-A-Student programs.