Ideally, choose binoculars with a magnification of 7x50 or 8x29. These will help you see the birds clearly, but they’re lightweight enough that you can carry them around easily. Higher magnifications are more bulky and are best used with a tripod, and lower magnifications will have a smaller field of view. [2] X Research source Roger J. Lederer, Ph. D. Ornithologist. Look for binoculars that are waterproof in case you drop them in a puddle. A good pair will probably cost you between $100 and $300. You could also use a telescope, though these are significantly less portable than binoculars.
A good field guide should cost you between $15 and $40. Some guides use photographs of the different bird species, while others use paintings and illustrations. Decide which kind you like better. Try to begin with a field guide that is specific to your geographical region. This will help keep you from getting overwhelmed in the beginning when you are still learning.
Several bottles of water Some food Jacket and/or change of clothes Lantern Pocketknife Insect repellent Notebook to record your findings Sleeping bag and tent (for overnight excursions)
There are many online websites that provide lists of well-known locations for birdwatching all over the country. [6] X Research source [7] X Research source
This will help you from scaring the birds away.
It may take a little time for you to find a bird, but letting them come to you is a better way to observe them in their natural habitat than trying to search them out as this might scare them off.
Watch how the bird behaves, its mannerisms, and listen for any sounds it makes.
First, identify the most obvious feature of the bird. This characteristic is called a bird’s field mark and will help you identify the bird. Start at the top of the bird’s head and work your way down. This will help you keep your clues organized and to develop a system of observation and identification over time.
This isn’t a requirement for birdwatchers, but if you want you can use the information from your list to help organizations that collect bird-related data.
