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Black-throated
Green Warbler
Dendroica virens |
Want to turn your next walk in the woods into an adventure? Bird-watching is the perfect sport for people who enjoy the outdoors. And you don’t need lots of special equipment or extensive training to have success the first time out. Just follow these simple eNature tips, and you’ll be identifying birds in no time.
Where to Look for Birds
True, birds populate even the busiest cities. But some spots offer better opportunities for the bird-watcher than others. One way to find them is to contact a local bird club and ask when the next field trip is scheduled and where it’s headed. If you can’t join the expedition, visit the area alone within a week or two of the scheduled outing.
 Another option is to call the local chapter of the National Audubon Society and ask for the telephone number for the Rare Bird Alerts. These recorded messages offer updates on unusual sightings in the area and news of bird migrations. To find the Audubon Society chapter nearest you, click here.
Finally, consult one of the many state or regional checklists that show the locations of various species and when they’re most active.
When to Look for Birds
A beautiful spring day is not necessarily the best time for bird-watching. Some species are most visible when you least expect to see wildlife of any kind. For example, the onshore gales that accompany large coastal storms provide great opportunities for observing seabirds from land.
The time of day is also important if you want to make the most of your bird-watching hours. Songbirds are easiest to spot during the first hours after dawn and before sunset, while vultures, hawks, and eagles are likeliest to be seen at midday.
Skills and Techniques
Look, listen, and move carefully. If you hear a sound or notice movement, your goal is to locate, identify, and observe the bird without frightening it away.
- Keep conversation to a minimum.
- Avoid abrupt movements. Remember that experienced birders usually travel less than a mile per hour on foot.
- Watch for signs of alarm in birds: a freeze in posture, a cocked head, a half-raising of the wings, and so on. These tell you to stop moving until the bird calms down or to back away if necessary.
- Study an unfamiliar bird thoroughly before consulting your field guide, and take notes if necessary.
What to Wear
- Wear dull colors, preferably muted greens, browns, and grays.
- Avoid fabrics that squeak, rustle, or snag easily.
- Don’t skimp when it comes to footwear. Choose thorn-proof soles for the desert and comfortable shoes that dry quickly or waterproof boots for other environments.
- Layers of protection against the cold are crucial since bird-watchers often must stand around in sharp winds and icy temperatures.
For more on bird-watching gear, click here. |
