Birdwatching is a fun-filled hobby that you can do anytime, anyplace. Besides, you don’t need to spend a considerable amount of money, either. Birdwatching allows you to feel wildlife in the best way. Also, it’s an extremely accessible activity. Otherwise referred to as birding, it has been an exciting hobby for many people.

Apart from that, the activity involved in birding works wonders for your well-being. The sights of the beautiful feathered creatures and their sounds are always rewarding. So, how do you get started? Continue reading the post to know how you can start your adventure in style.

Where do you start?

You can start birdwatching from anywhere you want. You can find birds everywhere. The only thing you need is to manage some time to locate them. Below listed are some steps that will make birding easy for you.

1. Get out of your house

Woods, local reserves, parks, and gardens are some of the best places to get started. You can look through your back window or take a walk in your backyard. If you notice, you can find many birds in your backyard. Chances are more if you have bird feeders in your backyard.

Make sure that the feeders are filled with bird seed. Consider putting in some sunflower seeds and wait for some time. You will likely see different species of birds. As you know, birds love water. Hence, provide a bird bath or fountain where birds can drink water and bathe. Birds will make your backyard a preferred place for you to watch them.

2. Use a guide

The best way to learn birding is to listen to them as long as you can. Moreover, you can hear different kinds of calls and songs from birds around you. Sometimes, it may surprise you that you already knew the species despite you haven’t gone birding before.

Identifying birds is important, especially for those who have embarked on this journey more recently. Any kind of books or apps that you find around should come in handy. When choosing books, you will have tons of them.

If you want something on your smartphone, you can find apps that help you identify birds conveniently. So, download your favorite app on your smartphone when birdwatching. Or, you can visit a reputable website and look out for some good birdwatching guides.

3. Try to wake up early

Unlike humans, birds tend to wake up early. Because they are asleep during the night for several hours, they are hungry in the morning. That’s why they go out to eat. And, this is the perfect time when you can find a variety of birds chirping around.

Although you can birdwatch throughout the day, mornings are the best. It is good to avoid birding at noon because birds have less activity during this time. If you want to experience the beauty of bird watching, make sure you wake up when the sun comes out.

This is when birds are the most active and vocal. In short, birds are easy to identify in the early hours. If you don’t like to wake up early, you will miss most of the fun.

4. Visit different locations

You may spend a lot of time in your backyard while watching different species of birds munching at bird feeders or perching around the fountain. But birding shouldn’t be confined only to your backyard. You should make an effort to visit different habitats and locations whenever possible.

Keep in mind that not every species of bird will come to your backyard. Some birds will stay within the forest area. You can go to the nearest park if you live in a city. Fall and spring are the best seasons when birds change their location. So, you can find a variety of them in city parks.

5. Make connections with birders from your locality

If you want to learn new skills, it is recommended to learn it from someone who has mastered it. The same goes for birding as well. You can seek membership in a bird club. Becoming a member of a bird club allows you to interact with interesting people that are passionate about birdwatching.

These people have lots of experience in birding. You can find a birding clue almost everywhere. Find one around you and become a member. Additionally, you can look for birding groups on social media platforms. Birders will share useful information with you. They are helpful when it comes to finding birds in your area.

6. Don’t forget about binoculars

Although you don’t need expensive binoculars to become a successful birder, they make birdwatching convenient. Binoculars are important pieces of equipment that help you feel the intricate beauty. The close-up view of birds allows you to identify different species of birds easily.

Binoculars give you subtle details about the type of bird that your eyes will fail to detect accurately. When buying a binocular, look for a model that is durable enough to last for a few years. Also, it should have a lightweight design and comes with a waterproof warranty.

Useful tips for birdwatching

Following are some of the useful tips that will give you a satisfying experience.

• Opt for darker or natural shades such as black or gray. Stay away from bright-colored clothes.

• You will find many birds during sunrise. So, wake up early because the chances of viewing birds will be high.

• If you like to record details of every bird you have watched, keep a notepad by your side.

• Choose a lightweight binocular that has a wide FOV (Field of View). With a wider view, the birds will appear clear.

• Don’t make sudden movements. They will alert the birds and they will fly away. Stay quiet while you watch them.

• Birdwatching is all about patience. Hence, wait for the birds to arrive.

Conclusion

Birdwatching doesn’t have to be intimidating. Rather, begin with your backyard and explore other locations gradually. Every day can be a learning experience. Get in touch with other experienced birders by joining a birder club. Seek help from them and improve your knowledge. Remember the tips mentioned above for successful birding.