Birds: Our Shared History, Habitats and Future

About

Birds have fascinated people since the earliest days of civilization and probably far before that. Egyptians would bring mummified ibis into their tombs; the oldest piece of written Dutch text is about birds; and Charles Darwin could only formulate his theory of evolution because of his profound interest in the finches and mockingbirds of the Galapagos islands.

In this course, we will explore what makes these animals intriguing and discover valuable lessons we can learn from them to achieve a better balance between nature and human activities. Our approach will be interdisciplinary, featuring insights from experts in bird ecology, behavior, and evolution, as well as their historical and social contexts. And perhaps most importantly we will go out into the field to observe avian wildlife in their natural habitat!

Half of the course is dedicated to a theoretical understanding. The growing knowledge of the over 10.000 wild species worldwide has given us intriguing reflections on animal behavior and a deeper understanding of ecosystem dynamics. More recently, ecologists have started to value birds as literal canaries in the coalmine, since they can give early signals of ecological degradation and birds are oftentimes first responders to climate change.

The other half of the course is dedicated to going outside. Situated in an estuary with numerous rivers, forests, swamps and drylands, our country is ultimately suited for many bird species. We will have ample opportunity to go into nature and improve our own bird watching skills during the field trips. The main teachers are both deeply engaged with birds and will provide you with the most crucial tricks of the birding trade. Students can borrow binoculars if needed.

Course leader

Elias den Otter Elias has been connected to the UvA as a teacher in interdisciplinary social sciences since 2016 and developed a variety of innovative courses. . Joris Buis lectures at various universities (including the UvA), sharing his knowledge about birds, the importance of wild nature, and conservation. Read more on our website.

Target group

Bachelors, Masters and working professionals with university experience

This program is designed for anyone with an interest in nature—no bird fanaticism required!

Course aim

• Historically Contextualize Avians. Understand and place birds within their historical context, acknowledging the shifts in human-nature relationships over the past centuries.
• Basic insights into the behavioral patterns of birds: behavior in their natural habitats and avian migration.
• Take position in the social context of bird life: bird life protection, recreation and tourism.
• Identify Birds in the Field: Apply practical skills to effectively identify birds in their natural habitats and see interrelations with the larger ecosystem they are part of.

Fee info

€850 for a private room with shared facilities. Housing is optional.