This course will present information on birds. Successful completion will provide a firm foundation for more advanced avian studies such as companion bird medicine, poultry health, raptor rehabilitation and avian surgery. Through a blend of didactic lectures, hands-on laboratories, and student-driven inquiry, topics of ornithology, behavior, anatomy, physiology, production management, diseases and basic clinical procedures will be presented. Fundamentals of flock management and nutrition will be covered along with principles of biosecurity and recognition of diseases will be addressed.