Upland Bird ID Training for BTO supporters in Scotland (2 modules, Mondays 7pm)

Improve your upland bird ID skills, and learn how these can be put to good use in some exciting BTO-led projects.

Join us for two entertaining, interactive sessions and improve your confidence identifying the birds that you see when you're out and about in the Scottish uplands.

The training will consist of two weekly online modules using Zoom, complemented by supported self-study exercises which your trainers will provide after each session. The small group format will allow us to get to know one another a bit, and will ensure a more personal experience. The course is aimed at those who live in Scotland and will cover species particularly relevant to a Scotland-based audience. 

The training will be run by BTO Scotland staff Ben Darvill and Steve Willis, both experienced birdwatchers, surveyors and trainers.

In order to participate you will need:

• broadband of sufficient speed to view live video (we can carry out a test in advance if you are unsure)
• a computer with sound and ideally a webcam, or a tablet/smartphone.

The two sessions will cover the following:

MODULE 1: Bird identification and an introduction to upland birds
Monday 24 April, 7–8:45pm
We begin with a few fundamentals of bird identification followed by an entertaining interactive workshop which will help you to recognise and remember some of the birds found in Scotland's uplands. We'll lead you on a 'virtual hillwalk' exploring various habitats and the birds that are found there, covering both visual and auditory identification skills. We'll also introduce the Volunteer Mountain Hare Survey and show you how to get involved.

MODULE 2: Further upland bird identification 
Monday 1 May, 7–8:45pm
We'll start this session by going through your homework, followed by an extended look at raptor identification. We'll then continue the 'virtual hillwalk', crossing grassland, heath and bog, ascending past some crags, and enjoying the specialist birds of the high tops. We'll finish by briefly introducing the Breeding Bird Survey.

COST: The programme of two weekly sessions and supported self-study exercises costs £24. We have a limited number of places available at reduced cost for people on lower incomes, so if the cost is prohibitive please contact us: steve.willis [at] bto.org

To book, please click the small 'Register Now' button in the top-right of the page.

This course is designed for amateur birdwatchers and bird survey volunteers – professionals seeking training should contact us by email.

After booking you should receive an automatic confirmation email. If this doesn’t arrive, please check your spam/junk email folder and if it is not there, or you have any other questions or booking issues, please email us at steve.willis [at] bto.org