Bird Watching for Beginners: The Items You Require to Begin

Here are the items you require to go bird watching for the first time. As you’re all set to see them from your backyard, from binoculars to birding applications, get yourself ready for this calm and knowledge-filled activity.

Important introduction

Bird watching is a great way to spend ones leisure time since one feels at one with the natural environment trying to identify various bird species. 

To budding enthusiasts, this hobby may seem a bit overwhelming at first, with the proper equipment and information, this is a very enjoyable past time. This guide, "Bird Watching for Beginners: The Items You Require to Begin” will guide you step by step.

What is Bird Watching?

Bird watching also known as birding implies to the observation and recording of birds with an added intent of studying them in their natural environment. It encompasses learning how to recognize one species from the other, how they live and the aesthetic value system we accord to them.   It could be your own compound or even when you are trekking in the wilderness, bird watching makes nature naked.

Why Start Bird Watching?

A bird watching party not only slows one down and makes him/her peaceful, but it enriches him/her with knowledge and stirs ones creativity. It compels you to go for a hike, exercise and discover a newfound regard and admiration for animals /wildlife. 

Bird watching does not demand much paraphernalia and for this reason is an entertaining activity for the beginners. Besides, it is an activity that can be done individually as well as with others like friends or family members.

The basic requirements in bird watching Birds can be watched with the naked eye especially if they are found in the open country side, big fields or water bodies.

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Binoculars

The most basic equipment that a bird watcher should have is binoculars. They provide a close view of birds’ without making you approach them close thus scaring them. In choosing the binoculars always put into consideration the magnification power, the objective lens diameter and the weight. Newbie are usually advised to start with a pair that has an 8×42 magnification because it is reasonably powerful as well as easy to handle.

Field Guide

A field guide is used to find out more about birds and particularly their features. Nowadays, there are many wonderful guides to help you, and practicing is different depending on the region. Select the one with illustrations or photographs and elaborate descriptions of the products. To put it in simple terms, those who take time to learn how to use a field guide, will have benefited a lot when bird watching.

Notebook and Pen

Maintaining a birding journal is another method that is very efficient in this process. Be sure to write down the date and location and the weather that was present during the times of spotting the birds and other features about the birds that were spotted. In time this journal shall provide an account of your birding experiences as well as growth in this noble endeavor.

Birding Apps

Bird watching has grown more informative and active with the help of modern technology. There are several apps related to birds; you can use it to identify the bird you are watching or have seen, or to record sightings and meet other bird watchers. Merlin Bird ID, eBird, and Audubon Bird Guide are famous apps which are available for the users. These apps usually come with bird calls and what’s as an added advantage when it comes to identification.

Clothing and Footwear

Comfort is key when bird watching especially when it comes to dressing code. Carry light color clothing or attires so as to blend with birds’ environment to prevent causing a near faint. Select footwear varying from terrain, and they should be durable and resistant to water. It is highly advisable to wear many layers of clothes since you can easily reduce or add on by removing or putting on more clothes whenever the weather changes.

Optional but Useful Items

Camera

A camera can add more value to your bird sightings since you can take and share images of the birds. Newbie should resort to using a point and shoot digital camera with a powerful zoom. Inexperienced in the field you might decide to buy better equipment as you go deeper into the project.

Spotting Scope

A spotting scope has higher magnification than binoculars, which could help if you want to watch birds far away. This is particularly true in the exposed land such as wetlands and coastal areas. Although, it can be much heavier and not as easy to carry around; therefore, one may need to factor the places they usually bird watch before getting one.

Backpack

Carrying your bird watching essentials can easily be done in a backpack. Select one that is both light in weight, and has adequate pockets where you can pack your equipment properly. Sample items are; Water, Snacks, Medical kit, Spare clothes.

Understanding Bird Behavior

Bird Calls and Songs

Birds are able to sing and make some calls, the type of calls and songs they make can be used to identify them. Some of the common functions of birding applications are sound options through which you can listen to different bird songs. To enhance your identification skills, then it is about time that you dedicated some time learning these sounds.

Feeding Habits

Bird watching can easily be done especially by focusing on how and what the birds feed on in order to identify their species. Notice how they feed and what they feed on. This knowledge can also help you attract more birds to your backyard feeders.

Migration Patterns

Annual migration is common in birds and these are some of the aspects that may dictate the migration process. That is a way of determining the time and area of a specific bird to appear after analyzing the migration habits of birds. There are websites and applications that offer details about the migration pattern of birds and hence can be used in proper planning to observe the birds.

Choosing the Right Location

Local Parks and Reserves

For starters, the local parks and other nature reserves could be the best places to start from. They are usually aplenty, living in different natural environments and are easily explored. Search internet for the most favourable locations in your area and then go there at different time in the day to capture different birds.

National Wildlife Refuges

National wildlife refuges are other habitats that are quite protective of birds and give them the best environment to nest. Such places are appropriate for the observation of birds mainly because of the variety of the climate. Its a good idea to visit the websites of the refuges to look for maps, bird lists and recommendations on which areas are best for viewing.

Backyard Bird Watching

The amazing thing about bird watching is that sometimes you do not have to go to distant places to view the birds. Making your backyard bird friendly will can attract many species of birds. Install feeders, birdbaths, and nest boxes. People should cultivate local vegetation mostly shrubs and trees to produce food and nesting habitats.

Bird Watching Etiquette

Respecting Nature

You should always follow the welfare of the birds and their nests. Stay at a safe distance, do not make noise, and never interfere with the places where they feed or have their young. Pick up after your group, obey any local laws or rules that are posted.

Respecting Other Bird Watchers

Bird watching is generally a per formed activity which is taken in popular locations with other like-minded bird watch ers. Avoid making loud noises and bringing attention to yourself by not hogging good vantage points and walkways. Other bird watchers should be respected because by improving their experience, your experience will also improve.

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Safe guarding Measures to be Taken While Bird Watching

Weather Precautions

Bird watching entails, most of the time, walking or sitting for hours in a particular region. Make sure to look at the weather to make sure you are appropriately dressed. Pack some lotion, caps or any other protecting gear for the sun for instance caps and sunglasses. For rainy or cold weather put on garments that are water proof and water resistant.

Health and Safety

Take enough water especially when you are out for a long time. Bring a small injuries emergency medical kit which will suffice for simple treatments. Steer clear of threats that are present in nature such as rough terrains, bugs, or beasts.

An article that will help in strengthening your bird-watching abilities:

Learning to Identify Birds

Begin by targeting on relatively popular birds of your locality. If an identification is not obtained in the field you should use your field guide and apps in order to know key identification aspects like the size, the coloration and behaviours that the animals possess. Enroll for birding walk or birding workshops if you want to get more practical experience.

Recording Your Observations

Mentioning several features would enable the documentation of the advancements and improve learning. The species, number of birds, the way the birds are behaving, and its natural environment should be recorded. You can post images associated with birding applications, forum services or other social groups to directly contribute to citizen science databases.

Becoming a Member to the Bird Watching Club

Bird Watching Clubs

Being a member of bird watching club is a good idea as you would have company of like-minded people. Physical activities include, taking children on a field trip, club meetings or having a workshop. Check which local club or national organization has the Web site of program that is labeled ‘Beginners welcome’.

Online Communities

It is impossible for a bird watching enthusiast to lack for information with internet being available to him. Subscribe to birding-related social media groups, newsgroups, or mailing lists to interact with other bird watchers and enthusiasts, and share your findings as well as keep up with advice from other knowledge bird watchers.

Common Questions New Bird Watching Enthusiasts Might Have

What binoculars are suitable for the novices?

For first timers, it is suggested that they get a pair with 8X42 because this gives a good blend of the magnification factor and the ability to gather light. They are bright and have clear images and favours easy handling in most of the products.

On what ways can I make the backyard a suitable place for birds to visit?

To attract birds one needs to put feeders with different types of seed, put a clean source of water in a bird bath, and plant native trees and shrubs for food and nesting. Pesticides should not be used and pets should not be allowed to come in close contact with feeding areas.

At what period can one get the best view of birds?

It is very advisable to take an early morning or early evening either in the morning or in the evening to spot a bird. These are normally the prime feeding times and besides, the light is perfect for viewing and taking pictures of birds. 

What are some tips I can use to identify birds better?

Immersive practice should be done in the local environment and in the use of field guides and apps. Take membership of the bird watching groups or attend workshops to learn from other professional bird watchers. Observing their calls and songs is another helpful step in bird identification.

Is it possible to bird watch without high end equipment?

Happily, you do not require expensive equipment when you are beginning bird watching. The primary tools include the simple binoculars, the guidebook and the appropriate dress code. That is why, while gaining experience, you can gradually allocate money for the purchase of other equipment.

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What are the sources that offer guides to bird watching?

Some of the resources are in the internet while others are easily availed in bookshops. There are so many resources on how to start: there are websites like Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon Society and the local bird watching groups that will provide guides, applications and reading materials to the newbies.

Conclusion

Bird watching is thus a pleasant and rewarding pastime that is open to anybody. With the right equipment and knowledge the start off in the word of birding and exploration of nature is real. Ensure you keep close to nature and avoid causing harm to wildlife, be safe when bird watching and be part of a community that encourages you in bird watching.

Item	Description	Importance
Binoculars	Essential for viewing birds at a distance, good binoculars can significantly enhance your bird-watching experience. Look for binoculars with a magnification of 8x or 10x.	High
Bird Guide Book	A bird guide book helps you identify different species. Choose one that is specific to your region for best results.	High
Notebook and Pen	Keep a record of the birds you have seen, including details such as the date, location, and any interesting behavior observed.	Medium
Field Bag	A comfortable bag to carry all your bird-watching gear, including your guide book, notebook, snacks, and water.	Medium
Comfortable Clothing	Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Wear neutral colors to blend in with the environment and avoid startling birds.	High
Hat and Sunscreen	Protect yourself from the sun while spending long hours outdoors.	Medium
Water Bottle	Stay hydrated during your bird-watching excursions.	High
Camera	A camera can help you capture images of birds for later identification and enjoyment. A DSLR or a good smartphone camera can be useful.	Low
Bird Call Apps	These apps can help you identify birds by their calls and songs, adding another dimension to your bird-watching experience.	Medium
Insect Repellent	Keep insects at bay, especially when bird watching in wooded or wetland areas.	Medium