Giving Bird Watching a Try
It's not hard to put your toe in the water. You really don't need anything to get started. Just walk
out your front door and look and listen for birds. When you see or hear one, perhaps you will recognize it (by
name even) if you have seen it many times before. If not, just paying attention to your senses will start
you along the path of birding. How big is the bird? What is it's shape? Does it sing a recognizable song?
If spending time in natural habitats and learning more about birds seems interesting, there is one item you should
consider buying - a field guide for birds in your area. This reference tool will provide you with the basic information
required to identify many of the birds you'll like encounter in your local area.
Visit our outfitting section for more information on field guides.
If you plan to mostly watch birds in your yard, you may want to setup feeders and baths to attract more birds and keep
them in your area for a longer time. This site does not contain very much information on "backyard birding" but if
this interests you, try visiting this site for
a good introduction to this hobby.
If you decide to pursue bird watching beyond the confines of your yard, you will definitely need to have a decent
pair of binoculars. This purchase need not break your bank, though many experienced bird watchers choose to spend
a sizable amount on binoculars (because they are so important to the activity of watching birds). For more information
on choosing a pair of binoculars, visit our binoculars section.
Spend time with other more experienced birders as a means for improving
your abilities. If you have friends who bird, join them for walks. If you don't know any birders, join your local
Audubon chapter or other group and participate in their birding activities. You will be amazed what you can learn just
by watching and absorbing the activities around you.
Most beginning bird watchers focus on what they see. You should also pay close attention to what you hear. Often
it is the bird's song or call that will give him away rather than some distinct visual clue such as color or shape. If
you want to really work on your audio-based skills, visit our bird song CD
section and learn more.
Though some bird watchers are very competitive (you will witness this if you spend time with a broad enough
cross-section of birders in your community), most are in the hobby to enjoy the experience and learn. Don't worry
if you're struggling to ID the birds. Just keep working at it and enjoying yourself and slowly you will feel
the process gets easier. Birding is a great activity, one that brings its participants in close contact with nature
and increases their appreciation of the natural world. We hope that you find joy and inspiration from your birding and
thank you for visiting our site. .
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