Are you considering starting birdwatching, or have you been doing it for a while but want to learn more? Then this guide is perfect for you. In this guide, you will quickly learn the "basics" and how to identify birds! Everything you need so that you can start birdwatching like a pro in no time!
Finding Birds
Some people seem to have a sixth sense for spotting birds immediately. With a little practice, you can too.
Step 1: Location
Birds can be found everywhere, but the types of birds you find depends greatly on your surroundings. Always research the area you are going to. In general, you can always find birds in natural areas, such as a lake, park, or forest. Have you found a location? Here it is often best to use your common sense. Looking for a specific kind of bird? Do a quick google search to find out where other people have found this bird near your area!
Found your location? Great.
Step 2: Stop
Stop what you are doing. Put your phone away. Stand and be still. Birdwatching requires attention. So ignore all distractions and fully immerse yourself in your surroundings.
Step 3: Look
The trick is to scan your surroundings efficiently and with purpose. Ask yourself: "If I were a bird, where would I sit?" Look at tree tops, high poles, electrical wires, fences, and look for interesting shapes or silhouettes. This is the best way to spot the most birds. Are you looking for large birds of prey, like eagles? Keep an eye up. Always scan with the naked eye first and then use your scope or binoculars.
Step 4: Listen
Your ears can often help you tremendously in finding interesting birds. Listen closely to the sounds around you. If you are looking for a specific bird, look for its sound before you go out. A simple google or youtube search of: "[bird name] sound" will often get you the result you are looking for!
Pro tip: on allaboutbirds you can look up over 600 species of birds and the sounds they make!
Step 5: Repeat
Once you have fully explored an area, it is time to move on and repeat the entire process.
Identifying Birds
Now that you know how to find birds, you will of course want to know which one it is. Birds come in many different colors, sizes, and patterns. But color is not always the best thing to focus on. Here are some clues to help guide you.
- With over hundreds of bird species in Europe alone, it is important to first determine the type of bird you are looking at. Some birds are easy to identify based on their size, shape, and behavior. For example, a hawk is larger than a sparrow and has a different shape. A duck swims on the water while a sparrow hops on the ground.
- Beak shape - The shape of a bird's beak can also be a good clue for identification. For example, a sparrow has a small, conical beak, while a woodpecker has a long, chisel-shaped beak.
- Field marks - Field marks are specific characteristics that help distinguish one species from another. These can include the size and shape of a bird's head, the pattern of its feathers, and the color of its beak and legs.
- Habitat - Consider the habitat in which you are birdwatching. Some birds are more commonly found in certain types of environments, such as forests, fields, or near water.
- Season - The season in which you are birdwatching can also be a factor in identification. Some birds are only present in certain regions during certain times of the year, while others are present all year round.
These tips should help you get started. But of course, the best way to get better at any skills is by practicing it! Get out in nature. Wonder and look. Then try to identify the birds you see, and look them up on the internet. Or you could buy a book that shows the birds in your area. What are you waiting for? Get out there and experience the beauty of nature up close!