Birding by Ear with Ryan Mahar, Session 2

Date: Saturday, May 2
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Location: Meet at Council Grove State Park
Cost: $35 MNHC members/$40 non-members

Want to sharpen your birding-by-ear skills and gain confidence identifying birds by sound? Birding-by-Ear 2 is an intermediate-level class that explores more advanced listening techniques, including how to distinguish similar songs, recognize patterns and rhythms in bird vocalizations, and make sense of the busy soundscape of spring and summer birding. Through guided listening activities and a relaxed walk through Council Grove, participants will practice identifying birds by ear in real time while learning tips and strategies for continued practice on their own. While this class builds on concepts introduced in our introductory Birding-by-Ear program, newcomers with some basic birding experience are also welcome!

Bring binoculars if you have them, comfortable walking shoes, and your curiosity as we tune in to the sounds of the season.

Instructor: Ryan Mahar is a Teaching Naturalist with MNHC and amateur birder from New England. He took his first birding class in undergrad and fell in love! He holds a master’s degree from the University of Montana in Ecology and Evolution, and received his Montana Master Naturalist certification in 2024.

What to Bring:

-Clothes/layers appropriate for changing Montana weather conditions
-Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
-Good walking footwear- boots or shoes
-Binoculars (if you have them, MNHC has pairs for use)
-Bug spray
-Water
-Snacks

Activity Level:
Easy. Standing and walking for 2 hours. Bathrooms are at the trailhead. We may walk up to 2 miles.