birds of a feather
Learning the Basics of Bird-Watching
“As you age, it’s ridiculous how fast bird-watching creeps up on you. You spend your whole life being 100 percent indifferent to birds, and then one day you’re like ‘ . . . is that a yellow-rumped warbler?’” Relatable? It is for many people, as that joke turned meme has been shared all over the Internet. There seems to be a chunk of time during adolescence where indifference applies; but for kids and adults, birds often present as mysterious, relatable, and worthy of observation. Imagine the freedom to flit and fly like a songbird, soar like a bird of prey, or skim the water like a seabird. Here, we peck at the surface of an easy-to-start hobby you can practice anywhere, all year round.
Laying the Groundwork.
Ornithology is the scientific study of birds, but you don’t have to be a scientist to participate. All you need is a pair of binoculars, a guidebook, a pen or pencil, and a healthy appreciation for our feathered friends. It’s also one of the few hobbies you can dive right into. There are plenty of sources with pointers for when, where, and how to observe; but ultimately, it’s simple and instinctual.
Choose a pair of binoculars you can comfortably carry. Keep compact, travel binoculars in your car at all times; get a larger, more powerful set for long-distance sightings. A field guide will be your go-to for identification. The Sibley Guide to Birds by David Allen Sibley features detailed illustrations and descriptions of 810 species and 350 regional populations. There are plenty of birding books out there, so take your time and find one that is easy for you to navigate. Most guidebooks have paid app versions too (Sibley, Audubon, etc.), while there are many stand-alone apps designed for identification via descriptions, photos, and calls. The National Audubon Society even recommends apps to help get younger generations interested in bird-watching.
Documenting Your Sightings.
Want to keep track of the birds you see or record your experience? You may simply mark sightings in your field guide or take a more interactive approach. John Muir Laws (no relation to the naturalist) promotes nature stewardship through science, education, and art. Head to his eponymous website for a free PDF on nature journaling and lessons on drawing. Or, consider nature photography. Invest in a zoom lens and silence audio alerts so you don’t disturb the birds and other critters. Birding can have an element of meditation. So, if you prefer, simply enjoy the experience with nature and leave it all in the field.
Finding a Flock.
Bird-watching is a great solo activity that doesn’t require outside participation—but sometimes it can be nice to share your avian enthusiasm with others. Join a local club or virtual group where you can share your experiences and photos. The National Audubon Society invites everyone to join their annual Christmas Bird Count. (“Ornithology is one of the few scientific fields in which nonprofessionals make substantial contributions,” per the editors of Encyclopedia Britannica.) Or, take a vacation that highlights your new hobby. Check out Eagle-Eye Tours for small-group birding trips by experienced leaders. With a guided trip, there is no planning required—you can just wing it.
/ Written by Maresa Giovannini.
Photography by Svetlana Vasileva/iStock/Getty Images Plus.
nest & nourish.
Regularly seeing birds will help you develop familiarity, identify calls, and observe their behavior. The best way to see birds up close and personal is to provide food (bird feeders), water (birdbaths), and shelter (birdhouses) in your safe outdoor spaces.
Food. Get the best seed for birds in your region. Clean feeders often, and watch for mold that can grow quickly in water-heavy areas. For hummingbirds, remember that nectar should be free of red dye/food coloring. There are plenty of feeder designs to fit any style. Check out Bird Buddy for a feeder that uses a Bluetooth camera to enhance your bird-watching experience from a fresh angle.
Water & Shelter. Place birdbaths in the shade to keep them cool, and refresh the water often. Additionally, they should be a safe distance from your windows and tucked away from regular neighborhood predators. Use the same thoughtful placement for birdhouses, too.
