• Time varies depending on depth of study

• 1 or more people

Birds live on every continent and are critical in their respective ecosystems. They have adapted to thrive in their natural environments but can’t adapt fast enough to survive in human-built environments. There are several participatory science projects that provide opportunities for anyone with an interest in birds to help scientists and conservationists track where species are living, eating, nesting and migrating. Select a project that is of interest and fits within the time and resources available.

Many species of animals migrate each year - birds are perhaps the most well-known. They travel long distances for access to breeding grounds, food and to escape winter temperatures. Data collected by participatory scientists has been analyzed by ornithologists to track their migration patterns. The map below represents 118 species of birds and their travel patterns. Watch the animated map, then use the prompts below to start a conversation with students about what they notice, what they know, and what they want to know more about. 

• What do you notice about the dots? Are there any patterns to how they show up on the map? Why do you think they’re following those patterns?

• Zoom in near where you live, what do you notice? What would you expect to be happening outside today, based on the map? 

• Choose a species of bird who winters or summers in your location. Where do they go during the opposite season?

  • Explore the area they travel to during the opposite season. What similarities or differences are there from where you live?