Profs and Pints Online presents: “The Wonder of Birds,” an introduction to the basics of ornithology, with Peter English, scholar of avian biology and behavior, bird guide, and assistant professor of biology at the University of Texas at Austin.

It’s the time of year when trees and the sky abound with birds doing their thing. Come gain a new appreciation of them with the help of a scholar who has devoted much of his life to researching birds throughout our hemisphere and guiding people on who want to view them.

In a wide-ranging talk offering the best parts of a full semester of introductory ornithology within the space of two hours, Professor English will look at the underlying physiology that makes birds so unique, at the fascinating adaptations that have enabled them to thrive in different environments all over the world,  and at various forms of bird behavior, such as flocking. You’ll become more familiar with the birds in your backyard, but also let your mind fly off to visit birds in the tropics. You’ll also learn tips for being better able to spot birds based on their plumage, flight patterns, and calls.

Professor English has studied birds throughout the United States as well as in 23 nations in Central and South America. He has led well over 100 birding tours, taught ornithology at UT-Austin for several years, and authored a variety of audio CDs of bird calls with Cornell University.  He also a glider pilot, which has enabled him to ride thermals with hawks, vultures, swifts, swallows, and the occasional Wood Stork.

You’ll find yourself looking skyward more, listening out more, and deriving much more enjoyment from the company of our feathered friends.

Profs & Pints Online: The Wonder of Birds