Encouraging nonprofessionals to participate in ecological research through citizen science programs is a recent innovation and an effective strategy for gathering ecological information across broad geographical areas. In this paper, we demonstrate how reporting field-based observations through eBird, a citizen-based birding and data-recording…

Presents a field formula for calculating speed and flight efficiency of soaring birds. By estimating the size of the bank angle and timing the complete circle, the observer can determine the speed and circling radius on a chart provided. Lift coefficients and flight characteristics of several birds are also discussed. (DH)

Describes a bird-study and banding activity designed for students in urban and suburban areas. (PEB)

An activity simulating natural selection in which wild birds are predators, green and brown pastry "baits" are prey, and trays containing colored stones as the backgrounds is presented. Two different methods of measuring selection are used to describe the results. The materials and methods, results, and discussion are included. (KR)

Describes studies at winter bird feeders which enhance instruction of ecology at the University of Michigan biological station. Background material is provided for field activities in which black-capped chickadees are observed and for home range determination and population estimate activities. (DH)

Discusses marine adaptations of seabirds, feeding/breeding methods, and their vulnerability to predators. Also considers dangers from new "predators," such as hunting, environmental factors (pollution/pesticides), and loss of natural environments. Future prospects for the survival of these organisms are considered. (JN)

Reports findings on research in Red-winged Blackbird territoriality and describes the educational potential of use of similar studies in the classroom. Territorial mapping and observational techniques are explained. (CS)

Two properties of a wing, namely aspect ratio and wing loading, are described and the matrix approach is used to make certain deductions about particular wing plans. Some examples are provided which show how the matrix transformation of one wing plan into another brings about predictable changes in wing properties. (KR)

Presents information on the population density, breeding biology, habitats, and food of the magpie bird ("Pica pica"). Suggests and outlines several student projects that have been beneficial in teaching animal behavior and ecology. These investigations focus on diet, territory size, and food hoarding. (DH)

Discusses the nature of animal communication, including possible relationships between the physical structure of vocalizations and their functions in communicating. Provides tables of mammalian and avian sounds (by species/family) used in hostile and friendly appeasing contexts. (JN)

Introduces a teaching method called guided design which involves a series of problems and solutions with feedback that leads students in a logical sequence through material being taught. Presents 15 worksheets to demonstrate the use of this technique in an introductory ornithology course. (Author/DC)

Recounts experiences of an environmental biology class, highlighting the eight-day field trip that is the culmination of the course. Describes activities during the bus trip, a two-day canoe trip, and field work at the Ozark Underground Laboratory and Blanchard Springs Caverns. Also discusses the field journal and final examination. (JM)