Birding Academy Schedule

Every four-month term of The Birding Academy includes the following learning modes, ranging from month-long deep dives to casual and low commitment meet-ups. This allows learners to customize and scale their participation based on what works best for them. Topics covered change each term, providing opportunities for fresh discoveries and new connections.

Certificates

Specially designed for the Birding Academy, Birding Certificates are multi-session commitments for participants looking to delve deep into big picture topics.

Migration Flyways of the United States | Saturdays, August 1 & August 8
In this two-part certificate program, discover the main migratory corridors and how birds use them to navigate the continent. We’ll begin indoors with a presentation showcasing the different pathways and which species utilize each one. Focusing on these specific birds, we’ll learn what they require in their migratory journey. By the end, participants will know the key differences between these flyways, some of the stand-out species, and the adaptations that help them navigate.

Photographing Birds with Susan Fink | Sundays, October 11 – November 8
Over five sessions, award-winning wildlife photographer Susan Fink will lead you through the finer points of taking high-quality bird photographs, from camera settings to photo enhancements. You will learn about composition, lighting, in-field techniques, understanding bird habitat and behavior, and so much more. Each session will include plenty of time to ask questions and practice skills around the beautiful trails of Schlitz Audubon.

Seminars

Birding Seminars focus on specific, more contained topics. Instruction consists of both classroom and outdoor settings and uses a variety of teaching techniques.

Nesting Types and Strategies | Tuesday, June 16
Field Illustration for Birders | Saturday, Jun 20
Birds of the Evening | Tuesday, July 28
Connections Between Humans and Birds | Tuesday, August 11
Field Illustration for Birders | Saturday, August 22
Prairies and the Birds Who Love Them | Saturday, September 12
Raptor Behind-the-Scenes Workshop | Saturday, September 12

Guided Hikes

Guided hikes offer opportunities for learners to practice birding skills in the field at the Center, focusing on seasonal or habitat specific topics.

Field Adventures

Birding Field Adventures are two to four hour guided trips to other natural areas where participants will learn and practice birding skills while exploring novel landscapes.

Birding in the Southern Kettle Moraine | Wednesday, June 10
Birding by Canoe | Saturday, July 18
Storytime with the Sandhills | Saturday, September 26

Bird Club

A longstanding Schlitz Audubon tradition, Bird Club meets monthly and is free to all. This gathering is co-hosted by one of our Environmental Educators and Dan Panetti, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Mequon. Attendees develop identification skills while meeting fellow birders.

Nesting Strategies | Wednesday, June 10
Birds of the Forest | Wednesday, July 8
Birds of the Wetland | Wednesday, August 12
Birds of the Grassland | Wednesday, September 9

View All Birding Academy Programs on Calendar