Bird Study Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Moderate
Setting: Outdoor observation, indoor study
Best For: Scouts interested in birds, nature, wildlife
Hands-On Level: Moderate
Requires Camping/Travel: No
Eagle Required: No

When you work on the Bird Study Merit Badge, you learn to slow down and pay attention to the outdoors. Birds are active all around you, but you have to look and listen carefully to notice them. As you watch them, you build patience and improve your observation skills.

You discover how birds depend on different habitats for food, water, and shelter. You also see how the seasons affect where birds live and when they migrate. As you learn about these connections, you gain a better understanding of nature and why it is important to protect it.

As you complete the Bird Study Merit Badge, you practice keeping records, identifying birds, and using tools such as field guides and binoculars. You spend time outdoors while building skills you can use in many parts of your life. You may even find that birding becomes a hobby you enjoy for years to come.

The requirements for the Bird Study merit badge were updated on January 1, 2026.

Download the Bird Study Merit Badge Requirements

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Help with Answers for Bird Study Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Bird Study merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Ecosystem
• Requirement 2: Terms
• Requirement 3: Equipment
• Requirement 4: Field Guide
• Requirement 5: Bird Watching
• Requirement 6: Adaptations
• Requirement 7: Songs
• Requirement 8: Experience
• Requirement 9: Attracting Birds
• Requirement 10: Endangered and Threatened Bird Species
• Requirement 11: Nonnative Birds
• Requirement 12: Leave No Trace
• Requirement 13: Careers
• More Resources

Requirement 1: Ecosystem

What You Need To Do

Describe why people study birds, how birds show the health of the environment, and how birds fit into an ecosystem. Use examples to show the different jobs birds do in nature.

What You Need To Do

• Birds live in almost every habitat, so they are easy to watch throughout the year.
• A healthy bird population often means there is clean water, good food, and safe places to nest.
• A sudden drop in bird numbers can point to pollution, habitat loss, disease, or other environmental problems.
• Birds spread seeds, pollinate some plants, eat insects, and help control rodents and other small animals.
• Hawks, owls, and other birds of prey help keep prey populations in balance.
• Birds are also food for larger animals, making them an important part of many food chains.
• Every plant and animal in an ecosystem depends on other living things in some way.
• Local parks, forests, wetlands, and neighborhoods all have birds that help support the ecosystem.

Resources

• Why Are Birds Important (video)
• Why Birds Matter (video)

Leader Tips

• Visit an area where Scouts can watch different bird species in their natural habitat.
• Encourage Scouts to connect each bird they see with its role in the local ecosystem.
• Ask questions that help Scouts describe how birds, plants, insects, and other animals depend on one another.
• Give Scouts time to share examples from their own observations outdoors.

Requirement 2a: Label Bird Body Parts

What You Need To Do

Sketch or trace a perched bird and label at least 15 body parts. Use the correct bird anatomy terms to identify each part.

Helpful Tips

• The bill is the hard mouthpart used for eating, grooming, and carrying material.
• The crown is the top of the head, and the eyebrow is the stripe above the eye on some birds.
• The cheek patch is the area behind and below the eye. The eye ring is the ring of feathers around the eye.
• The throat is below the bill. The breast is the front of the body below the throat.
• The scapulars cover the shoulder area where the wing joins the body.
• The back is behind the neck. The rump is just above the base of the tail.
• The tail helps with steering and balance during flight.
• The tertials are the inner flight feathers closest to the body. The secondaries are the middle flight feathers. The primaries are the long outer flight feathers.
• Wingbars are light-colored bands across the folded wing. They are often useful for bird identification.
• The undertail coverts are small feathers under the base of the tail.
• The flank is the side of the body between the wing and the belly.
• The tibiotarsus is the upper leg, usually covered by feathers.
• The toe helps birds perch, walk, climb, or catch prey.
• Use your diagram as a guide and place each label so it clearly points to the correct body part.

Resources

• How to Draw and Label a Bird (video)

Leader Tips

• Provide bird diagrams or field guides for reference.
• Check that labels point to the correct body parts.
• Focus on correct names rather than artistic skill.
• Encourage Scouts to compare diagrams after everyone finishes.

Requirement 2b: Label Wing Feathers

Sketching an extended wing helps you understand how birds fly. Wings are made of layers of feathers, and each group has a job. A simple wing shape is fine. Focus on showing the feather groups clearly rather than adding detail.

What You Need To Do

Sketch or trace an open bird wing and label the six required feather groups. Show where each type of feather is found on the wing.

Helpful Tips

• A simple outline of the wing is enough.
• Primary feathers are the longest feathers at the tip of the wing.
• Secondary feathers attach closer to the bird’s body and help provide lift.
• Tertiary feathers are closest to the body on the inner wing.
• Coverts are the small feathers that cover the bases of the larger flight feathers.
• The alula is a small group of feathers on the front edge of the wing near the bend.
• Scapular feathers cover the shoulder area where the wing joins the body.
• Use a bird anatomy diagram to check each label before turning in your work.

Resources

• Bird Wing Anatomy – Underside (video)
• Bird Wing Anatomy – 2 (video)

Leader Tips

• Have several wing diagrams available for Scouts to use as references.
• Point out the feather groups on photos before Scouts begin drawing.
• Check that each feather group is labeled in the correct location.
• Focus on correct identification rather than artistic skill.

Requirement 3a: Viewing Device Specifications

What You Need To Do

Explain what the specification numbers mean on binoculars, a spotting scope, or a monocular. Use an example to show what the numbers tell you.

Helpful Tips

• Most binoculars have numbers such as 8×42 or 10×50.
• The first number is the magnification. An 8x binocular makes an object appear eight times closer.
• Higher magnification shows more detail but is harder to hold steady.
• The second number is the diameter of the front lens in millimeters.
• Larger front lenses let in more light and make the image brighter.
• Larger lenses also add weight, so they are less comfortable to carry on long hikes.
• Many birders choose 8×42 binoculars because they balance brightness, weight, and magnification.

Resources

• Selecting Your First Binoculars for Birdwatching – the 5 Things You Need to Know (video)

Leader Tips

• Let Scouts compare several viewing devices with different specifications.
• Ask Scouts what the numbers mean instead of having them memorize examples.
• Encourage Scouts to hold different models and compare the brightness and weight.
• Keep the discussion connected to real birding situations.

Requirement 3b: Adjust and Focus a Viewing Device

What You Need To Do

Show how to adjust the eyepiece and focus a binocular, spotting scope, or monocular for a clear image.

Helpful Tips

• Adjust the eyepieces until you see one clear circle instead of two.
• Point the device at a still object while making your adjustments.
• Turn the center focus wheel until the object looks sharp.
• If your binoculars have a diopter adjustment, set it for the difference between your eyes.
• Refocus each time you switch to a bird at a different distance.
• Keep both eyes open when using binoculars if it feels comfortable.
• Practice focusing on trees, signs, or birds before your outing.

Resources

• How to Get Crystal Clear Focus With Your Binoculars (video)
• How to Use Binoculars For Bird Watching – A Beginners Guide! (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate the adjustment steps before Scouts try them.
• Give each Scout time to practice with real equipment.
• Check that every Scout can produce a sharp image.
• Encourage patience until the adjustments become routine.

Requirement 3c: Care for Viewing Equipment

What You Need To Do

Show how to care for and clean the lenses on a binocular, spotting scope, or monocular.

Helpful Tips

• Carry your viewing device with a neck strap or in a protective case.
• Replace the lens caps when the device is not being used.
• Blow or brush off dust before wiping the lenses.
• Use a clean lens cloth or lens paper made for optical equipment.
• Avoid paper towels, tissues, or clothing because they can scratch the lenses.
• Store the device in a cool, dry place after each outing.
• Keep the equipment dry and handle it carefully to avoid damage.

Resources

• How to Clean Your Binoculars (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate the proper cleaning steps with lens cleaning supplies.
• Remind Scouts to clean lenses only when needed.
• Check that Scouts handle the equipment carefully.
• Encourage good habits every time the equipment is used.

Requirement 3d: Choose the Right Viewing Device

What You Need To Do

Describe when and where binoculars, a spotting scope, and a monocular work best for bird watching.

Helpful Tips

• Binoculars are the best all-around choice for most birding trips.
• Binoculars work well in forests, parks, trails, and backyards.
• Spotting scopes provide much higher magnification than binoculars.
• Spotting scopes work best at lakes, shorelines, grasslands, and other wide open areas.
• Most spotting scopes are used with a tripod because they are heavy and powerful.
• Monoculars are small, lightweight, and easy to carry in a pocket.
• A monocular is useful on hikes when you want to travel light or take a quick look at a bird.

Resources

• What’s the Difference-Spotting Scope vs Binoculars for Birdwatching (website)

Leader Tips

• Let Scouts compare all three types of viewing devices.
• Visit different habitats where each tool has an advantage.
• Encourage Scouts to explain why they chose a particular device.
• Connect the equipment choice to the type of birding they are doing.

Requirement 4: Use a Field Guide

What You Need To Do

Show that you can use a bird field guide and read a range map. Find one bird from each required group and point out its breeding range, wintering range, and year-round range if shown.

Helpful Tips

• A field guide includes pictures, descriptions, maps, and identification tips.
• Most field guides group birds by family or by similar appearance.
• The index helps you find a bird quickly if you know its name.
• Range maps use colors or patterns to show where birds live during different seasons.
• The breeding range is where birds usually nest and raise their young.
• The wintering range is where birds spend the colder months.
• A year-round range shows where a bird lives during every season.
• Check the map legend before reading any range map because colors vary between field guides.

Resources

• How to Use a Field Guide (video)
• Merlin Bird ID (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts how to use the table of contents and index.
• Review several range maps before asking Scouts to identify them.
• Encourage Scouts to use the map and the bird description together.
• Allow Scouts to choose species that occur in their region.

Requirement 4a: Seabird

What You Need To Do

Find one seabird in your field guide and point out its breeding, wintering, or year-round range on the map.

Helpful Tips

• Seabirds spend much of their lives near oceans or large bodies of salt water.
• Gulls, terns, pelicans, puffins, and shearwaters are examples of seabirds.
• Many seabirds breed on islands or rocky coastlines.
• Some seabirds migrate long distances between breeding and wintering areas.
• Inland sightings are less common for many seabird species.
• Compare the range map with the bird’s habitat description.
• Point to each part of the range map while you describe it to your counselor.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose a species with a clear range map.
• Compare the map with a map of North America.
• Ask Scouts why the bird stays close to water.
• Connect the bird’s habitat with its range.

Requirement 4b: Plover

What You Need To Do

Find one plover in your field guide and identify its breeding, wintering, or year-round range.

Helpful Tips

• Plovers are small shorebirds with short bills and long legs.
• Many plovers live on beaches, mudflats, grasslands, or open ground.
• Breeding areas are often in northern regions.
• Wintering areas are usually farther south.
• Some field guides also show migration routes.
• Compare the range map with the habitat description.
• Use the map to decide when the bird might be found near your home.

Leader Tips

• Choose a plover with separate breeding and wintering ranges.
• Encourage Scouts to explain each section of the range map.
• Discuss why shorebirds often migrate long distances.
• Have Scouts compare two different plover species if time allows.

Requirement 4c: Falcon or Hawk

What You Need To Do

Find one falcon or hawk in your field guide and identify its breeding, wintering, or year-round range.

Helpful Tips

• Falcons and hawks are birds of prey with hooked bills and sharp talons.
• Many hawks have large year-round ranges across North America.
• Some species migrate south for the winter, while others stay in the same area all year.
• Check the map legend to see which color shows breeding, wintering, and year-round ranges.
• Compare the range map with the habitat description in the field guide.
• Hawks live in forests, grasslands, mountains, deserts, and cities, depending on the species.
• Use the range map to tell when you are most likely to see your chosen bird.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to compare two birds of prey with different range maps.
• Ask Scouts to identify the map colors before describing the ranges.
• Connect the bird’s habitat with its distribution.
• Remind Scouts to use both the map and the written description.

Requirement 4d: Warbler or Vireo

What You Need To Do

Find one warbler or vireo in your field guide and identify its breeding, wintering, or year-round range.

Helpful Tips

• Warblers and vireos are small songbirds that often feed on insects.
• Many species breed in the northern United States and Canada.
• Most spend the winter in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, or South America.
• Some species pass through your area only during spring and fall migration.
• Compare the range map with the bird’s habitat description.
• Check whether your field guide includes migration routes.
• Use the map to decide the best season to look for your bird.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose a species that migrates through their area.
• Review the difference between breeding and migration ranges.
• Help Scouts connect migration with seasonal bird watching.
• Give Scouts time to compare several species before making a selection.

Requirement 4e: Heron or Egret

What You Need To Do

Find one heron or egret in your field guide and identify its breeding, wintering, or year-round range.

Helpful Tips

• Herons and egrets usually live near rivers, lakes, marshes, ponds, and wetlands.
• Many species stay all year in warm climates.
• Birds living farther north often move south for the winter.
• Compare the range map with the bird’s preferred habitat.
• Frozen water limits where many herons and egrets can live during winter.
• Look for breeding areas near large wetlands and nesting colonies.
• Use the range map to decide when your chosen species is likely to be nearby.

Leader Tips

• Visit a wetland if possible so Scouts can connect maps with real habitats.
• Ask Scouts why water is important for these birds.
• Encourage Scouts to compare year-round and seasonal ranges.
• Review the map legend before beginning.

Requirement 4f: Sparrow

What You Need To Do

Find one sparrow in your field guide and identify its breeding, wintering, or year-round range.

Helpful Tips

• Sparrows are small birds commonly found in fields, forests, parks, and neighborhoods.
• Some sparrows stay in the same area throughout the year.
• Other species migrate between breeding and wintering areas.
• Compare the range map with the habitat description in the field guide.
• Look carefully because many sparrow species have similar markings.
• Use the map to decide the best season to find your chosen species.
• Practice pointing out each section of the range map before meeting with your counselor.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to select a sparrow found in their local area.
• Review the field marks used to identify similar sparrow species.
• Have Scouts describe the range map in their own words.
• Reinforce the connection between habitat, season, and range.

Requirement 5: Bird Watching

What You Need To Do

Identify at least 20 species of wild birds and keep a field notebook with one entry for each bird. Record the date, time, location, habitat, feeding habitat, two foods the bird eats, and whether it is a migrant or a summer, winter, or year-round resident.

Helpful Tips

• Create a separate page or section for each bird species.
• Record your notes as soon as possible after each observation.
• Include the date and time because bird activity changes during the day and throughout the year.
• Write the location and describe the habitat, such as a forest, wetland, field, park, or neighborhood.
• Record where the bird finds food, such as on the ground, in trees, on the water, or while flying.
• List two foods the bird commonly eats. Use a field guide or another reliable reference if you did not see the bird feeding.
• Check a field guide to determine whether the bird is a migrant, summer resident, winter resident, or year-round resident in your area.
• Write clear notes that describe what you actually observed instead of copying from a book.
• Use binoculars whenever possible so you can identify birds without disturbing them.
• Visit different habitats to increase the variety of birds you find.

Resources

• How to Keep Birding Records in a Field Notebook (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to keep up with their notebook after every outing.
• Visit several habitats so Scouts can observe a wider variety of species.
• Review notebook entries for complete information instead of perfect writing.
• Remind Scouts to identify only wild birds they observe themselves.

Requirement 6a: Beak Adaptations

What You Need To Do

Describe how the size and shape of a bird’s beak fit its habitat and the food it eats. Use examples from different groups of birds.

Helpful Tips

• Seed-eating birds often have short, thick beaks for cracking seeds.
• Hawks, eagles, and owls have hooked beaks for tearing meat.
• Herons and egrets have long, pointed beaks for catching fish and frogs.
• Ducks have broad, flat beaks that strain food from the water.
• Hummingbirds have long, narrow beaks for reaching nectar inside flowers.
• Woodpeckers have strong, chisel-shaped beaks for drilling into wood.
• Match each beak shape with the bird’s habitat and food source.

Resources

• A Beginner’s Guide to Bird Beaks (video)
• Bird Feeding Adaptations: How Beaks Are Adapted to What Birds Eat (video)

Leader Tips

• Show photos of birds with different beak shapes.
• Ask Scouts how each beak helps the bird find food.
• Encourage examples from birds found in your area.
• Connect beak shape with habitat and diet.

Requirement 6b: Body Adaptations

What You Need To Do

Describe how the size and shape of a bird’s body fit its habitat and daily activities.

Helpful Tips

• Ducks have streamlined bodies that move easily through water.
• Hawks and falcons have bodies built for fast, powerful flight.
• Herons have long necks for reaching prey in shallow water.
• Penguins have heavy, streamlined bodies for swimming instead of flying.
• Songbirds usually have small, lightweight bodies for quick movement through trees and shrubs.
• Owls have sturdy bodies that help them hunt quietly at night.
• Match the bird’s body shape with the habitat where it spends most of its time.

Resources

• Adaptations in Birds – What Makes a Bird Suitable to Fly (video)
• Bird Adaptations for Flight Explained (video)

Leader Tips

• Compare birds that live in different habitats.
• Ask Scouts how body shape helps each bird survive.
• Use photos or field guides to point out differences.
• Keep the discussion focused on the bird’s habitat.

Requirement 6c: Leg and Foot Adaptations

What You Need To Do

Describe how the size and shape of a bird’s legs and feet fit its habitat and the way it moves or finds food.

Helpful Tips

• Ducks, geese, and swans have webbed feet for swimming.
• Herons and egrets have long legs for walking in shallow water.
• Hawks and owls have strong feet with sharp talons for catching prey.
• Woodpeckers have two toes pointing forward and two pointing backward for climbing tree trunks.
• Perching birds have toes that wrap around branches.
• Running birds, such as ostriches, have long, powerful legs for speed.
• Match the legs and feet with the places where the bird spends most of its time.

Resources

• AMAZING Bird Feet! (video)

Leader Tips

• Use bird photos to compare different feet and legs.
• Encourage Scouts to connect foot shape with movement.
• Ask Scouts why birds living in different habitats have different feet.
• Include examples from local birds whenever possible.

Requirement 6d: Feather and Plumage Adaptations

What You Need To Do

Describe how feathers and plumage help birds live in different habitats.

Helpful Tips

• Flight feathers provide lift and control during flight.
• Down feathers trap air and help keep birds warm.
• Water birds coat their feathers with oil to help keep water out.
• Birds living in cold climates often have thick feather coverings for insulation.
• Brown, gray, or mottled plumage helps many birds blend into their surroundings.
• Bright plumage helps some birds attract mates or communicate with other birds.
• Match feather color and feather type with the bird’s habitat and daily activities.

Resources

• Discover the Hidden Genious of Bird Feathers (video)
• Why Peacocks Have the MOST STUNNING Feathers in Nature? (video)
• How Penguin Feathers Are Perfect Adaptations for Icy Water (video)

Leader Tips

• Compare birds from forests, wetlands, and open fields.
• Point out examples of camouflage and bright plumage.
• Encourage Scouts to relate feather types to the bird’s environment.
• Keep the focus on how feathers help birds survive.

Requirement 7: Songs and Calls

What You Need To Do

Explain the purpose of bird songs and calls. Identify five birds by sound alone and record the sound, the bird’s behavior, and the reason the bird was making the sound.

Helpful Tips

• Songs are usually longer and more musical than calls.
• Most birds use songs to attract mates and defend their nesting territory.
• Calls are usually short and simple. Birds use them to warn of danger, keep a flock together, locate family members, or stay in contact while flying.
• Listen to common birds in your area first because you will hear them more often.
• Pay attention to rhythm, pitch, speed, and repeated patterns instead of trying to remember every note.
• Write simple descriptions such as “three clear whistles,” “rapid chatter,” or “sharp chip notes.”
• Record what the bird was doing when it made the sound, such as singing from a tree, calling while flying, feeding, or warning other birds.
• Include the reason for the sound, such as defending territory, attracting a mate, keeping a group together, or giving an alarm call.
• Practice listening without looking for the bird. This helps you recognize species by sound alone.

Resources

• 25 Iconic Bird Sounds (video)
• Two Types of Communication Between Birds: Understanding Bird Language Songs and Calls (video)

Leader Tips

• Play recordings of common local birds before going into the field.
• Encourage Scouts to identify familiar species before moving to more difficult ones.
• Review each Scout’s notebook for complete observations about behavior and purpose.
• Give Scouts plenty of time outdoors to listen as well as watch.

Requirement 8a: Bird Field Trip

What You Need To Do

Go on a birding field trip with a local club or experienced birders. Keep a list of the birds your group sees and discuss what you observed with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Bring a notebook or bird checklist to record every species your group finds.
• Write down the habitat, such as a forest, wetland, grassland, lake, or park.
• Common birds usually have plenty of food, water, shelter, and nesting sites in the area.
• Birds seen in small numbers may have special habitat needs or may be migrating through the area.
• Different habitats attract different kinds of birds, so watch for changes as your group moves.
• Water, native plants, and a variety of trees and shrubs often make an area good for bird watching.
• Ask questions during the trip and compare your observations with the group.

Leader Tips

• Choose a location with several different habitats if possible.
• Encourage Scouts to keep their own bird lists instead of copying others.
• Stop often so Scouts have time to observe and record birds.
• Discuss why certain birds were easier to find than others.

Requirement 8b: Christmas Bird Count

What You Need To Do

Find the Christmas Bird Count closest to your home, review the results from a recent count, and discuss what the information shows.

Helpful Tips

• The Christmas Bird Count is held every winter by volunteers across North America.
• Each count records the bird species and the number of individuals found within a designated area.
• The results help scientists track changes in bird populations over many years.
• Common birds usually have habitat and food sources that support large populations.
• Uncommon birds may need special habitats, have naturally small populations, or appear only during migration.
• Habitat loss, pollution, invasive species, disease, and climate change can contribute to declining bird populations.
• Protecting habitats, planting native vegetation, reducing pollution, and supporting conservation projects help many bird species.

Resources

• Christmas Bird Count (video)
• What Is the Christmas Bird Count? Everything You Need to Know (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts locate the nearest Christmas Bird Count.
• Encourage Scouts to compare several years of results if they are available.
• Discuss why bird numbers change over time.
• Connect the data to local conservation efforts.

Requirement 8c: Bird Banding Program

What You Need To Do

Participate in a bird banding program and discuss how bird banding works, why it is done, and what you observed during your visit.

Helpful Tips

• Bird banding is done only by trained and federally or state-approved banders.
• Each bird receives a lightweight metal band with a unique identification number.
• Bird banding provides information about migration, lifespan, survival, nesting success, and population changes.
• Many kinds of birds can be banded, including songbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of prey.
• Birds are often captured safely with mist nets or specially designed traps that minimize injury.
• During your visit, record how many bird species were banded and describe your role in the program.
• Watch how the birds are handled quickly and carefully before they are released.

Resources

• Introduction to Bird Banding (video)

Leader Tips

• Arrange visits only with approved bird banding programs.
• Review safety rules before the activity begins.
• Encourage Scouts to ask questions about the data being collected.
• Give Scouts time to record observations while the visit is fresh in their minds.

Requirement 9a: Build a Bird Feeder

What You Need To Do

Build a bird feeder, place it in a good location, and describe the birds you hope to attract. Explain how you will keep the feeder clean and supplied with food.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a feeder that matches the birds you want to attract.
• Black oil sunflower seed attracts many common backyard birds.
• Place the feeder near trees or shrubs so birds have a place to escape from predators.
• Keep the feeder several feet away from windows to reduce bird collisions.
• Refill the feeder before it becomes completely empty.
• Remove wet or moldy seed because it can make birds sick.
• Clean the feeder regularly with a mild bleach solution, rinse well, and let it dry before adding fresh seed.

Resources

• Make a Gourd Birdhouse (website)
• DIY How to Make Bird Feeder for $2 EASY 3 Hanging Styles Birds LOVE (video)
• Easy D.I.Y Bird Feeder – How to Attract Birds to Your Garden (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to research the birds found in their area.
• Check that the feeder design is safe and sturdy.
• Discuss the importance of regular cleaning.
• Ask Scouts why they chose a particular location.

Requirement 9b: Build a Birdbath

What You Need To Do

Build a birdbath, place it where birds can use it safely, and describe the birds you hope to attract. Explain how you will keep the birdbath clean.

Helpful Tips

• Birds need clean water for drinking and bathing.
• A shallow birdbath is safer than a deep one.
• Place the birdbath where birds have a clear view of approaching predators.
• Nearby shrubs or trees provide a quick escape if danger appears.
• Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
• Clean the birdbath regularly to remove algae and dirt.
• Break or remove ice during winter if possible so birds can reach the water.

Resources

• How to Pick (or Build) the Right Bird Bath for Your Garden (video)
• Easy DIY Bird Baths for Your Garden (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose a stable location.
• Discuss the importance of clean water for bird health.
• Review simple cleaning methods.
• Ask Scouts why they selected their location.

Requirement 9c: Build a Backyard Sanctuary

What You Need To Do

Plant trees and shrubs to provide food and cover for birds. Describe the birds you hope to attract and explain how you will care for the area.

Helpful Tips

• Native plants usually provide the best food and shelter for local birds.
• Trees give birds nesting sites and places to rest.
• Shrubs provide cover from weather and predators.
• Berry-producing plants attract many bird species.
• Flowering plants attract insects that many birds eat.
• Leave some natural leaf litter because it supports insects and other wildlife.
• Water, prune, and care for the plants so the habitat stays healthy.

Resources

• How to Create a Bird Friendly Backyard (video)
• What Happens When You Create a Bird Sanctuary in Your Backyard? (video)
• Attract Backyard Birds With an Ecosystem Approach! (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use native plants whenever possible.
• Help Scouts match plants to local bird species.
• Discuss how different layers of vegetation support birds.
• Review the long-term care needed for the habitat.

Requirement 9d: Build a Nest Box

What You Need To Do

Build a nest box for one bird species using plans approved by your counselor. Describe the bird you hope to attract and explain how you will maintain the nest box.

Helpful Tips

• Different bird species need different box sizes and entrance holes.
• Use untreated wood that is safe for wildlife.
• Place the nest box at the recommended height for the species.
• Face the entrance away from strong winds when possible.
• Clean the nest box after the nesting season ends.
• Check the box each year for loose parts or damage.
• Do not disturb birds while they are nesting.

Resources

• DIY Birdhouse (video)
• Build a Bird House for Under $5 in Under 5 Minutes (video)

Leader Tips

• Verify that the plans match the intended bird species.
• Review proper placement before installation.
• Emphasize safety when using tools.
• Encourage yearly inspection and cleaning.

Requirement 9e: Plan a Backyard Bird Habitat

What You Need To Do

Draw a plan for a backyard bird habitat. Include the birds you hope to attract and the plants, food, cover, water, and nesting areas you will provide.

Helpful Tips

• Include food, water, cover, and nesting places in your plan.
• Choose native trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses whenever possible.
• Include plants that produce seeds, berries, nectar, or attract insects.
• Add a birdbath or another clean water source.
• Leave open spaces for ground-feeding birds and dense shrubs for cover.
• Match your plant choices to the bird species you want to attract.
• Include a simple plan for watering, pruning, cleaning, and other regular maintenance.

Resources

• How to Create a Backyard Bird Habitat | Tractor Supply Co. (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to design a habitat that fits their available space.
• Review whether the habitat meets the needs of the chosen bird species.
• Discuss how the habitat will change as plants mature.
• Remind Scouts to include a maintenance plan.

Requirement 10a: Extinct, Endangered, and Threatened

What You Need To Do

Explain the difference between extinct, endangered, and threatened species. Use each term correctly when describing bird populations.

Helpful Tips

• An extinct species has no living members anywhere in the world.
• An endangered species faces a very high risk of extinction in the near future.
• A threatened species is likely to become endangered if conditions do not improve.
• Endangered species usually have smaller populations than threatened species.
• Habitat loss, pollution, disease, invasive species, and climate change can move a species toward the endangered list.
• Laws such as the Endangered Species Act help protect many at-risk species.
• Early conservation efforts can prevent a threatened species from becoming endangered.

Resources

• How the Endangered Species Act Saved America’s Most Iconic Bird (video)

Leader Tips

• Ask Scouts to define each term in their own words.
• Use examples of birds that fit each category.
• Encourage Scouts to compare the three terms.
• Connect the discussion to conservation efforts in your area.

Requirement 10b: Endangered or Threatened Bird

What You Need To Do

Choose one endangered or threatened bird species. Explain why its population declined and describe actions that can help the species recover.

Helpful Tips

• Pick a species listed as endangered or threatened in your country.
• Habitat loss is one of the most common reasons bird populations decline.
• Other causes include pollution, pesticides, invasive species, collisions with buildings, and climate change.
• Some birds decline because of reduced nesting areas or fewer food sources.
• Habitat restoration can provide safe places for birds to nest and feed.
• Conservation laws, protected areas, and captive breeding programs have helped some bird species recover.
• Give specific examples that apply to the bird you chose.

Resources

• Most Endangered Species & Threatened Species (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts choose a species with reliable information.
• Encourage Scouts to connect the causes with possible solutions.
• Ask for specific examples instead of general statements.
• Reinforce that recovery often takes many years.

Requirement 10c: Protecting Birds Before They Decline

What You Need To Do

Explain how birds can be protected before they become endangered or threatened. Describe ways to protect habitats, reduce threats to migratory birds, and maintain healthy food sources.

Helpful Tips

• Healthy habitats provide food, water, shelter, and nesting places.
• Protect forests, wetlands, grasslands, and other natural areas from unnecessary development.
• Plant native trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses because they support insects, seeds, berries, and nectar.
• Reduce pollution and use pesticides carefully because many birds depend on insects for food.
• Migratory birds need safe places to rest and feed along their migration routes.
• Bright lights and tall buildings can cause collisions during migration. Turning off unnecessary lights during migration seasons can help.
• Keep cats indoors or supervised because free-roaming cats kill many wild birds each year.
• Support conservation groups and follow outdoor practices that protect wildlife and habitats.

Resources

• Why Are Migratory Birds In Trouble? (And How Can I Help?) (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to focus on prevention instead of recovery.
• Discuss local conservation projects and habitat protection efforts.
• Ask Scouts to identify threats faced by birds in their own community.
• Help Scouts connect everyday actions with bird conservation.

Requirement 11: Nonnative Birds

What You Need To Do

Identify one bird species that was introduced to North America from another country after 1800. Describe how this bird affects native birds and the ecosystem.

Helpful Tips

• A nonnative bird is a species that people brought to North America from another part of the world.
• Common examples include the House Sparrow, European Starling, Rock Pigeon, and Mute Swan.
• House Sparrows and European Starlings often compete with native birds for nesting cavities.
• Large populations of nonnative birds can reduce the food and nesting sites available for native species.
• Some nonnative birds spread invasive plants by carrying seeds to new areas.
• Rock Pigeons often gather in large numbers around buildings and other structures built by people.
• Mute Swans can drive native waterfowl away from feeding and nesting areas because they are aggressive.
• Introducing new species can upset the balance of an ecosystem because native plants and animals evolved together over long periods of time.

Resources

• Top 3 Most Invasive Bird Species in North America (video)
• Wings of Kentucky: Invasive Bird Species (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose a nonnative bird found in their region.
• Ask Scouts to describe how the bird affects native wildlife instead of simply identifying it.
• Discuss why introducing species from other parts of the world can create long-term problems.
• Connect the discussion to the importance of protecting native habitats and native bird species.

Requirement 12: Leave No Trace

What You Need To Do

Discuss how the Leave No Trace Seven Principles and the Outdoor Code apply to bird study. Describe how you used these outdoor ethics while observing, identifying, or collecting specimens in natural areas.

Helpful Tips

• Plan ahead so you have the equipment you need and avoid disturbing birds.
• Stay on established trails whenever possible to protect plants and nesting areas.
• Watch birds from a distance instead of moving closer and causing them to fly away.
• Speak quietly and keep noise to a minimum so birds continue their natural behavior.
• Leave nests, eggs, feathers, and other natural objects where you find them unless you have permission to collect a specimen.
• Pack out all trash and leave the area as clean as you found it.
• Respect other visitors by sharing trails and keeping noise low.
• Follow the Outdoor Code by being clean, careful, considerate, and conservation-minded during every birding trip.
• Follow all local rules about wildlife, protected areas, and specimen collection.

Resources

• The Outdoor Code (website)
• The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace (website)
• Leave No Trace Basics (video)
• Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics (video)

Leader Tips

• Model good outdoor ethics during every birding activity.
• Point out examples of Leave No Trace practices while in the field.
• Ask Scouts to describe how they applied the Outdoor Code during their observations.
• Encourage Scouts to leave bird habitats exactly as they found them.

Requirement 13a: Bird Study Careers

What You Need To Do

Identify three careers that use bird study skills. Research one career and discuss the education, training, experience, costs, job outlook, salary, advancement opportunities, and your interest in the career.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a career that matches your interests and strengths.
• Find out what education or training is required before starting the job.
• Look for information about certifications, licenses, or special permits if they are needed.
• Research the cost of college, technical school, or other training programs.
• Find the typical starting salary and employment outlook for the career.
• Look for ways people advance in the field through experience or additional education.
• Be ready to explain what you like and dislike about the career.

Careers to Consider

• Wildlife biologist
• Ornithologist
• Park ranger
• Environmental educator
• Conservation officer
• Land manager
• Wildlife rehabilitator
• Wildlife technician
• Natural resources manager
• Ecologist
• Environmental scientist
• Fish and wildlife biologist
• Zoo curator
• Avian veterinarian
• Nature center director

Resources

• Careers With Birds: Interview With Kim Bostwick (video)
• Ornithologist (Bird Scientist) | Career Exploration (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use reliable career information sources.
• Help Scouts compare several careers before choosing one.
• Ask Scouts what interests them most about the career.
• Discuss how Bird Study skills apply to the job.

Requirement 13b: Bird Study as a Hobby

What You Need To Do

Choose a hobby that uses bird study skills. Research the equipment, training, costs, and organizations related to the hobby, then discuss your short-term and long-term goals.

Helpful Tips

• Pick a hobby you would enjoy doing for many years.
• Research the equipment you need and how much it costs.
• Find books, classes, websites, or local groups that help beginners.
• Look for clubs or organizations where you can meet people with similar interests.
• Set a short-term goal you can complete in the next few months.
• Set a long-term goal that will help you improve your skills over time.
• Explain how the hobby will help you continue using the skills from this merit badge.

Hobbies to Consider

• Bird watching
• Backyard bird watching
• Bird photography
• Nature journaling
• Bird sketching
• Bird feeding
• Building birdhouses
• Building bird feeders
• Citizen science projects
• Christmas Bird Count
• eBird reporting
• Bird banding volunteer programs
• Volunteering at a nature center
• Habitat restoration
• Wildlife gardening

Resources

• 5 Reasons Why Birding is an Awesome Hobby! (video)
• Birding: a Hobby for Everyone (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose a hobby they can continue after earning the badge.
• Help Scouts find local clubs or organizations related to their hobby.
• Ask Scouts to share realistic short-term and long-term goals.
• Discuss how hobbies can support bird conservation.

Gourd Birdhouse

Creating a gourd birdhouse aligns perfectly with the Bird Study merit badge, offering Scouts a hands-on project that enhances bird habitats in their local areas. By utilizing dried gourds, which can be sourced from farmers’ markets or craft shops, Scouts engage in a creative and sustainable craft.

This activity not only contributes to fulfilling the badge requirements by providing shelter for birds but also encourages Scouts to think about the importance of supporting local wildlife. It’s a practical way to apply the principles of conservation and observation learned through the Bird Study merit badge, bringing Scouts closer to the natural world.

Wildlife Management Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Wildlife Management Troop Program Feature complements the Bird Study merit badge beautifully, emphasizing the interdisciplinary approach necessary for effective wildlife conservation. This feature educates Scouts on how various STEM fields contribute to understanding and maintaining the natural balance essential for wildlife prosperity, including birds.

By integrating this program into their learning, Scouts can deepen their comprehension of the ecological principles discussed in the Bird Study merit badge. It offers a broader context for their bird-related activities, highlighting the interconnectedness of all wildlife management efforts and the critical role of informed, multidisciplinary strategies in conservation.

Nature and Environment Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA Troops

The Nature and Environment Troop Program Feature serves as an excellent foundation for Scouts working on the Bird Study merit badge. By exploring themes around plants, wildlife, and human interaction with nature, Scouts gain a comprehensive background that enriches their understanding and appreciation of bird habitats and conservation needs.

This program feature not only offers a broader perspective on environmental stewardship but also provides practical ideas for meetings that can directly support the requirements of the Bird Study merit badge, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world and its avian inhabitants.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Bird Study merit badge gives Scouts a simple way to explore wildlife through careful observation. It fits well within the full merit badge program because it adds a focused nature option to a list that includes outdoor skills, science, trades, and arts. Scouts learn how to identify birds, understand behavior, and observe habitats. This brings balance to the wide set of choices by offering a quiet, hands-on way to study the outdoors.

It also connects to other badges like Nature, Environmental Science, and Fish and Wildlife Management. Scouts who enjoy learning about animals often find this badge a natural next step. It supports the program’s goal of helping Scouts explore many interests.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Bird Study merit badge supports the larger goals of Scouts BSA by teaching patience, attention, and respect for living things. These habits help Scouts grow as thoughtful leaders.

It also ties into fitness, citizenship, and personal development. Going outdoors to watch birds encourages movement and awareness. Learning how birds affect local ecosystems builds understanding of community needs. These skills strengthen responsibility and confidence.

What is the Bird Study Merit Badge?

The Bird Study Merit Badge helps Scouts learn about birds and their habitats. Scouts practice observing birds, using field guides, and keeping records. The Bird Study Merit Badge also teaches respect for wildlife and nature.

Do I need to be good at drawing for the Bird Study Merit Badge?

No, you do not need to be good at drawing for the Bird Study Merit Badge. Simple sketches or tracings are fine. The goal is to learn bird parts and wing feathers, not to make art.

How many birds do I need to identify for the Bird Study Merit Badge?

You must identify at least 20 species of wild birds for the Bird Study Merit Badge. These birds must be observed in the wild, not in zoos or books.

Do photos or recordings count for the Bird Study Merit Badge?

Photos and recordings can help you study, but you still need to observe birds yourself. The Bird Study Merit Badge focuses on what you see and hear in nature.

What tools do I need for the Bird Study Merit Badge?

Basic tools include a bird field guide, a notebook, and binoculars. These tools help with observation and identification during the Bird Study Merit Badge.

Can I work on the Bird Study Merit Badge in my neighborhood?

Yes, you can work on the Bird Study Merit Badge in many places. Backyards, parks, and school grounds are good locations. Birds live in many habitats.

How long does it take to complete the Bird Study Merit Badge?

The time needed for the Bird Study Merit Badge depends on how often you observe birds. Some Scouts take a few weeks, while others take longer to see enough species.

Do I need to travel far for the Bird Study Merit Badge?

No, you do not need to travel far for the Bird Study Merit Badge. Many common birds live close to home. Patience and regular observation matter most.

Is the Bird Study Merit Badge good for beginners?

Yes, the Bird Study Merit Badge is good for beginners. It teaches basic skills step by step. Scouts can build confidence as they learn.

Can the Bird Study Merit Badge lead to other activities?

Yes, the Bird Study Merit Badge often leads to hobbies or careers. Many Scouts continue birding or help with conservation after earning the badge.

The Bird Study Merit Badge helps Scouts slow down and pay attention outdoors. Birds are active, but they reward patience. As Scouts watch and listen, they learn to notice details they once missed. This builds focus and care, which are useful in many parts of life.

Through the Bird Study Merit Badge, Scouts learn how birds live and move through the seasons. They begin to see how food, water, and shelter affect wildlife. This builds respect for habitats and shows why conservation matters. Scouts learn that small changes in land use can affect many living things.

The Bird Study Merit Badge also builds practical skills. Scouts practice keeping notes, using guides, and sharing what they learn. They gain confidence as they identify birds on their own. Time spent outdoors becomes calmer and more meaningful.