Birdwatching is a relaxing pastime or recreational activity that involves observing and identifying bird species. It is also a challenging hobby whose popularity is constantly expanding. It can be awe-inspiring and somewhat mesmerizing and involve family members of all ages.
Birdwatching is a relaxing pastime or recreational activity that involves observing and identifying bird species. It is also a challenging hobby whose popularity is constantly expanding. It can be awe-inspiring and somewhat mesmerizing and involve family members of all ages. Everyone can pick their own favorite species or vocals from different birds.
The hunt to locate, identify, watch, and hear or record the vocal of a species is a captivating endeavor. Just think! Birds have been on our planet since the age of the dinosaurs. Their spectacular range of colors, sizes, vocals, and beauty of flight have evolved for millions of years! Tell the kids that they are going out to watch dinosaurs, and see the curiosity begin!
Birdwatching can be done as a simple leisure pursuit from your own kitchen table while watching a variety of birds at your backyard bird feeder or in growing increments of complexity in ornithology (the science of birds). In the simplest forms, the beginner needs only their eyes and ears to enjoy birdwatching. This back to nature hobby often evolves into the enthusiast wanting to identify specific birds by spotting them or hearing their songs.
Becoming involved in birdwatching has many benefits. It is a healthy venture that connects people back to nature. People can watch birds almost anywhere. From backyards, to exotic aviaries, to local parks, or far-off locations, birdwatching is plain fun! The very nature of the hobby tends to calm stress; plus, it gets you up and moving.
Birdwatchers often explore new areas and make new birdwatching friends in the field or in groups online or even in local societies. Whether a solitary quest or a social venture, the mental and physical benefits abound. Avid birdwatchers tend to become involved in wildlife conservation and even habitat reestablishment. Plus, birdwatching can be done year-round. It can be surprising and challenging.
For sure, birdwatching is a hobby that will never be dull. The allure of following migration cycles and the vast number of birds that exist makes this an exciting and ever-changing hobby. “Watchers” learn that patience is a necessary trait, but the benefits are so worth it when the “ah-ha” moment finally arrives!
Equipment Essentials for the Newbie Birdwatchers:
Birdwatchers will benefit from a comfortable backpack that allows hands-free viewing while having the capacity to stow everything you need on your birdwatching adventure. When packing, remember that your destination and planned time in the field sets the requirements for what you need to put in your backpack. You will want to include items such as basic first aid supplies including ointment and band aids, sunscreen, bug spray, camera, lens cleaning cloths, a head lamp, a drink, and a snack.
The Osprey Daylite Plus pack is a great beginners’ choice. This backpack is constructed of sturdy material that can survive the outdoors.
Binoculars are an essential tool for new and old birdwatching enthusiasts. The focal point of the hobby is viewing the bird, without disturbing it, and the better the binocular, the better the experience.
The Nikon Monarch 7 is one of the best birding binoculars on the market. It has quality glass with a waterproof and fog-proof construction that makes them perfect for the job. The basic construction is durable, but it also has the ability to change the magnification and viewing diameter. This allows you to enjoy your subject and keep it in view.
Another recommended set of binoculars for beginning or even young birdwatchers is the Leupold BX-1 Yosemite. These economical binoculars are compact and adjust easily to fit most people and sport 8X magnification with a good field of view. They are constructed for clarity and precision with waterproofing and a sturdy armor coating on the exterior.
If you need something for longer ranges, make sure to check out our reviews of the best spotting scopes for birding.
3. Binocular Harness
Binocular harnesses are highly suggested. The harnesses allow you to carry your binoculars in comfort. Different models offer different advantages from the super basic to enclosed pounces. A decent binocular harness is the Tenzing TZ OSS15. The harness is made from a sturdy nylon fabric with an adjustable padded shoulder strap. Additionally, the straps have elastic for comfort.
4. Waterproof Notebook and Pen
Being able to jot down your notes and observations while birdwatching is essential. Keeping a waterproof notebook with a handy pencil or waterproof pen will provide you a lightweight invaluable tool. An inexpensive example is the Rite in the Rain all-wea