1.Keep a Nature Journal or Field Notebook.  This is a great way to build your knowledge while strengthening your observation skills! Describe and sketch the birds you see with as much detail as possible. Include date, location, weather, species’ names, and any behaviors you observe, including sounds. For tips on learning to identify birds, go to the Building Skills section of the Lab's All About Birds web site.

2. Read a book. Books are a great way to explore the many cool topics relating to birds. Go to Books and Activities for Exploring the World of Birds for a list of books, with activity ideas for each.

to color the birds as accurately as possible—an excellent way to learn bird identification.

 4. Study the birds found in your city or rural neighborhood. Count the numbers and color types in a local flock of pigeons, observe the behaviors of crows and jays, and discover which city habitats doves use. Go to the Celebrate Urban Birds web site to learn more.

 5. Set up a feeder area. Make or buy a feeder—or two or three!—and learn to identify the birds they attract. Check out the Lab's Project FeederWatch for more information.

6. Order BirdSleuth Game Cards: A set of 36 full-color cards that contain photos and information of many of your favorite birds! Activity and game ideas are included, along with password access to an online Bird ID quiz that includes sound and video of these common birds.

7. Become a Species Specialist.  When working with groups, have each person select one bird species to observe and study in detail. Ask questions like: Where does this bird find its food (when not at a feeder)?  Where does it live during the summer?  The winter? During migration? What kind of nest does it build – or does it build a nest at all?  What habitat does it prefer? Go to the Online Bird Guide for information on each species to supplement your observations.

8. Gather nesting data in your schoolyard, backyard, or nearby natural area. It's easy and fun when you join the Lab's continent-wide nest-monitoring project. The NestWatch web site has more ideas and information.

9. Go for a bird walk. Which birds can you find as you explore your local habitats? How many different habitats are in your area, and which birds are found in each? Keep track of the numbers and kinds of birds you see and enter your bird list on the eBird website, a real-time online checklist program.

10. Prepare for Spring! Learn the bird songs and calls that herald spring. Go to the Songs and Calls page of All About Birds for tips and resources.