5 Tips for Beginner Bird Watchers
When beginning your bird watching journey, it is best to take a step back and think about all the information or advice you may need. I've supplied some helpful hints that I learned from professors and even ornithologists along the way.
1. Always know what to expect in the area. By using a field guide, you can figure out what birds are native to your area and narrow down your bird options. This makes identifying birds way easier and makes your ID way more accurate.
2. Find the birds. You should learn about the habitat each species of bird prefers in order to find the birds that live in your area. WildBirds.com has a whole section devoted to helping you find birds, locally and globally.
3. You should learn the songs of the birds in your yard. Later, learn the songs of other birds in your area of the country. To find a bird, you will often hear it first. This makes identifying birds easier, even if you can't visibly spot them.
4. Join a group of other birders. Birders are often the most helpful when it comes to finding specific birds in your area and are usually very friendly. Start by calling the local Audubon Society, the local Nature Center or Parks Commission, or the local Bird Club. If all else fails, go to the park with your binoculars. Someone is sure to strike up a conversation that might lead you to a whole new group of birding buddies.
5. Have fun and be kind to birds!
Photo by Eric Liner of Cornell Lab
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