Part 1: Introduction
Are you interested in learning more about the beautiful birds that live in your backyard? In this video series, Ranger Andie will show you the basics of how to use binoculars and how to identify some of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway’s most common bird species. After learning about common songbirds with Andie, you will head down the river to Carpenter Nature Center to learn about another type of bird, the raptor!
An audio described version of this video can be found here:
https://youtu.be/h5I_77MCWuk
Part 2: How to Adjust Binoculars
New to birdwatching? Learn about the different parts of a pair of binoculars and how to properly adjust them to get a close-up view of a bird or landmark! Ranger Andie will show you how to adjust the binoculars to fit your face and focus in on a far-away object.
An audio described version of this video can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/5DC0EGlCWV0
Part 3: Common Songbirds of the St. Croix
There are an estimated 18,000 bird species worldwide, and as you can imagine, it would be very tricky to learn them all. Luckily, Ranger Andie makes it easy for you to start birding with a short list of the most common songbird species found throughout the St. Croix River watershed.
Follow along with the Indoor & Outdoor Birding Activities booklet that includes a photo of each of the birds Andie highlights.
An audio described version of this video can be found here: https://youtu.be/o2MZ74_kcsA
Part 4: Let's Go Birding at Carpenter Nature Center
Not all birds are known for their vibrant colors and complex songs—one group of birds, known as raptors or birds of prey, are well-known for their sharp talons, their hooked beaks, and their keen eyesight. Join Ranger Liz as she takes a day trip down to the confluence of the St. Croix River and Mississippi River to visit Carpenter Nature Center in Hastings, Minnesota, where she can get a close-up look at one of the Riverway’s most amazing raptors.
An audio described version of this video can be found here:
https://youtu.be/hkOFTbBeNrQ
Part 5: Conclusion
Thank you for joining us on this birding journey along the wild and scenic St. Croix River. To learn more about the birds you can see along the Riverway, check out the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway website for a birdwatching guide or check out our Student Resources to view a handy birding fact sheet!
An audio described version of this video can be found here: https://youtu.be/T-QCPF8FaXQ
We hope you enjoyed learning with us and that you check out another set of videos or sign up for a live virtual program!