A birdie is a score of one stroke under par on a single hole. On a par 4, a birdie is a 3. On a par 3, it is a 2.
Golf scoring terms
| Term | Score vs par | Par 4 example |
|---|---|---|
| Albatross (double eagle) | -3 | 1 (on a par 5: 2) |
| Eagle | -2 | 2 |
| Birdie | -1 | 3 |
| Par | 0 | 4 |
| Bogey | +1 | 5 |
| Double bogey | +2 | 6 |
Where the word comes from
The term is commonly traced to early 1900s American slang, when “bird” meant something excellent.
How to make more birdies
- Hit more greens in regulation
- Improve wedge distance control
- Practice putts from 5 to 15 feet
- Be aggressive on shorter holes
Par at Bella Vista
Bella Vista Country Club in Marlboro plays to Par 70 over 5,923 yards. See the course tour to plan your birdie chances.
Visit Bella Vista Country Club
Bella Vista Country Club is at 100 School Road East, Marlboro, NJ 07746. Call 732-308-4600 to ask about a trial tee time or a tour of the clubhouse and course, or see 2026 Membership Options.