Bird Study and the Trail to Eagle
Bird Study is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Bird Study Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 8 main requirements for Bird Study. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Explain the need for bird study and why birds are important indicators of the environment.
- 2
Show that you are familiar with the terms used to describe birds by sketching or coloring at least 12 proper markings.
- 3
Demonstrate that you know how to properly use and care for binoculars, a spotting scope, or a monocular.
- 4
Demonstrate that you know how to use a bird field guide.
- 5
Observe and be able to identify at least 20 species of wild birds. Prepare a field notebook.
- 6
Describe to your counselor how certain birds are indicators of environmental quality.
- 7
Explain the function of a bird's song. Be able to identify five of the 20 species from requirement 5 by song or call alone.
- 8
Do ONE of the following:
- a.Go on a field trip with a local club or with others who are knowledgeable about birds in your area.
- b.Find the name and location of the Christmas Bird Count nearest your home and participate in it.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Bird Study Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Bird Study, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Bird Study is usually earned anywhere. Pick whichever setting lets you work with your counselor most consistently.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 6 weeks for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 10 Bird Study requirements for you.
Bird Study Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Bird Study merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Bird Study is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Bird Study merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Bird Study in about 6 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Bird Study merit badge?
Bird Study is most often earned anywhere. Any registered merit badge counselor for Bird Study can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Bird Study merit badge have?
Bird Study has 8 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 10 items in total.
