The bird identification card game is a fun and educational game that helps teach people how to identify different bird species. Players try to collect sets of cards depicting different birds by asking each other questions and making visual identifications.
How do you play the bird identification card game?
The game is played with a deck of cards, each featuring a photo of a bird on one side and facts about that bird species on the other. To start, the deck is shuffled and cards are dealt evenly to all players. The player whose turn it is holds up a card so only they can see the picture side. The other players then take turns asking yes or no questions about the mystery bird, like “Does it have a red breast?” or “Is it larger than a robin?” After a set number of questions, the players make a guess as to what species is depicted. If someone guesses correctly, the player who held the card reads the info on the back out loud and the guesser takes the card. Play then passes to the next person.
The goal is to collect the most sets of cards. A set may be all the warblers, all the birds of prey, all the waterfowl, etc. The types of sets allowed can be agreed upon beforehand. Once all cards have been claimed, the player with the most complete sets wins.
Where did the bird ID card game originate?
The origins of the bird identification card game are uncertain, but it likely developed out of the natural overlap between birdwatching and card collecting/trading as hobbies. Both were becoming popular in the late 19th century. The game combines the joy of collecting cards with the learning process inherent in bird identification. An early version featuring Japanese birds was published in 1897. In 1934, the National Association of Audubon Societies in the US released the first Audubon Bird Cards, a standardized educational deck for American birds. This was followed by numerous commercial and noncommercial editions of regional bird card games.
What are the benefits of the bird ID card game?
There are many benefits to playing the bird identification card game:
- It’s an interactive, social way to learn about birds. The group dynamic makes learning more fun.
- It builds visual bird identification skills. You learn to associate pictures with species names.
- You gain knowledge about bird biology and behavior from the info on the backs of cards.
- It gets people of all ages enthusiastic about birdwatching as a hobby.
- The card collecting element taps into people’s natural desire to collect things.
- It can turn birding into a friendly competition, motivating further learning.
What types of card decks are available?
There are many bird card decks and games to choose from. Some cover a wide range of species across North America while others focus on regional birds. Popular options include:
- National Geographic Birds of North America
- Audubon Birds of Prey
- Peterson Field Guide Backyard Birds
- Stokes Field Guide to Birds: Eastern Region
- Backyard Birds of Texas
Decks may be general or targeted for beginners, kids, seasoned birders, etc. The cards provide high-quality color photos, detailed species information, range maps, identification tips, and birdsong QR codes. Some games include additional elements like birdcall audio files, quizzes, or player notebooks.
Where can I buy a deck to play?
Bird card decks and games can be purchased from many major retailers that sell toys, games, books, or nature products. Here are some options:
- Nature and science museums
- Bookstores
- Outdoor recreation stores like REI
- Nature centers and parks
- Specialty birding/nature shops
- Amazon.com and other online retailers
Prices typically range from $10-$30 depending on the size of the deck. Local Audubon chapters may offer regional decks as a fundraiser. You can also often find used decks on eBay or at secondhand book/toy stores.
How can I make my own deck?
To DIY your own bird card game deck:
- Decide which species you want to include. Local birds? Backyard birds? Specific families?
- Research facts and print/clip images for each species.
- Affix images and info to index cards or cardstock.
- Laminate cards for durability (optional).
- Store cards in a box or travel case.
Custom decks allow you to tailor cards to your region or needs. You can also save money over commercial decks. However, it takes time and effort to assemble accurate information and quality images.
Conclusion
The bird identification card game is a fun, interactive way for people of all ages to learn about birds. As a blend of field guide studying and collectible card gaming, it takes advantage of visual learning and natural collecting instincts. With many commercial and DIY deck options covering different species, it can be tailored to suit regional birds or desired levels of challenge. Building identification skills while socializing with others makes birding an even more engaging hobby.