If You Can Name It, You Can Love It – A Course in Birding

This five-week course in birding is being led by Linda Burek, an experienced birder and author. She was the lead compiler for the St. Augustine Christmas Bird Count 2018-2021.  Linda has also participated in weekly counts of nesting birds at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park.  In addition, she served on the Board of Directors for the St. Johns Audubon Society and led bird walks.

Deepen your connection with the natural world. You’ll explore the birdlife of our coastal estuary and beyond – helping participants build birding skills, gain confidence in identification, and appreciate the powerful connection between knowing and loving nature.

Class Days: Fridays, October 3-31, 2025 — 10:00am-11:30am

Where: GTM Research Reserve Visitor Center, Classroom 2

Course Schedule

October 3 — The Estuary Ecosystem and Birds Near Water
Introduction to why birds thrive here and how to identify the most common birds found near water.

October 10 — Birds Near Water – Part 2
Complete the discussion on tips for identifying birds near water. Outdoor observation at the Poop Dock.

October 17 — Feathered Friends at Home
Backyard bird identification, feeding tips and habitat insights.

October 24 — Where the Birds Are
Explore local hotspots and highlight species to seek at each site.

October 31 — Apps, Maps & Birding Mastery
Hands-on training with eBird & Merlin. Wrap-up discussion and Q&A.

Cost:  $175.00 — Members of Friends of the GTM Reserve | $225.00 — Non-Members

Click the event website link for all additional information, to register, and for a list of required books.