Bill Oddie's Great Bird Race Game

Bamar Games · Board game · 1988
2–6 240 min
rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you like games that teach while they entertain, the bird race will charm you – its strength is the blend of luck and curiosity.

Highlights
  • Bird learning focus
  • Vivid artwork
  • Simple rules
Keep in mind
  • Long playtime
  • High luck factor
  • Shallow strategy
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Bill Oddie's Great Bird Race Game is a light, educational race for up to six players across a board that represents different natural habitats. When a player lands on a space, they get to "bird‑spot" by drawing a bird card matching that location. Each bird carries a point value based on its rarity – common birds are worth few points, while rare ones score much higher. Occasionally, ultra‑rare bird cards appear, available only to the first player who reaches a special spot, adding a quick dash for the biggest reward.

Movement is driven by rolling dice or spinning a wheel, so luck plays a big role, but the subtle strategy lies in choosing where to land and which birds to collect. The goal is to amass the highest total score by the end of the game, which typically lasts between two and four hours depending on the group's pace. Designed more as a fun way to learn about birds than a deep tactical contest, it works great for families, bird‑watching clubs, or anyone curious about nature who wants to blend entertainment with education. The cards feature bright illustrations and brief facts about each species, turning every play‑through into a mini‑lesson on avian biology.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK
6 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Animals: Birds
Publisher Bamar Games
Designer Alan Davies, Nigel Platt, Robert Wayt Smith

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can join?
2 to 6 players.
How long does a game take?
Typically 2–4 hours, depending on the group's pace.
What is the game's complexity level?
Very low – rules are simple and quick to learn.
What components are included?
A board with habitats, bird cards, dice or a spinning disc, scoring markers, and player tokens.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, perfect for kids 8+ who enjoy nature and learning.
Do I need prior bird knowledge?
No, the cards provide fun facts about each species.
Is there deep strategy involved?
Strategy is light; most outcomes depend on movement luck and which cards appear.

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