Bird Watching Tips & Information
Bird watching is quickly acquiring popularity as an outdoor activityso if you’ve an interest in it then read the following so you are able to perform to the best of your ability. At first, telling one bird from another will be difficult since they move rapidly, giving you a limited window of opportunity so you will have to learn all you can as quickly possible while the bird is in your sight. When a bird enters your vision, make the most of it, employing all the time you have to make sure you take note of it’s markings, the sounds it makes, and it’s color along with what sort of food it takes. You can in addition use a sketch pad to draw objects that you find fascinating but whatever you do, make the most out of the time that you have that specie in your vision.
Birdwatching can also be an auditory activity and many birds will reflect this by the sounds they make so listening to a bird’s vocalization is simple but it can also easy to forget. When identifying a certain song to a bird, notice the movement of the bill this will tell you if is indeed coming from that specific bird. Taking note of the size and shape of the bird will help greatly with identifying it so start with what the bird looks like and go from there pay attention to the bird’s outline and other features so you have something to compare it to in the field guide. Pay close attention to the head, since every bird is unique the bird’s mouth can also be a very important identifying feature upon finishing that, take notes on the wings, legs, tail, etc.
Watch closely to how the bird moves because this can tell you a lot about what species it might be and then if possible, try to determine what the bird eats or how it eats. Pay attention to the region you saw the bird in, and note the climate of course that can be done easily once the bird has flown, every region has a specific type of bird, depending on their weather conditions. write down the area you saw the bird in keeping in mind that birds tend to migrate so make sure that you have taken into consideration the time of the year. Write down anything that you have noticed, so later you can sit down with the field guide, and determine the species.
Equipment wise, a pair of good binoculars helps to locate and identify the distant birds and bird watchers frequently wear camouflaged clothing so that birds won’t spot them and be spooked. Long sleeved cotton shirts, long pants and leech socks help protect you from insects and leeches. Wearing field boots is very wise, as they’ll keep your feet nice and dry, and if you’re lucky, warm and provide traction on slippery terrain. Bird watchers will be able to take shelter in some parks most parks feature different types of shelter which assist bird watchers and photographers alike.
When you are out bird watching with friends and family and you see a rare species, don’t give vague directions but be as specific as you can after they know where to look, start giving more detailed directions. When everyone is looking in the right direction, use the clock system to pinpoint the direction. To give the proper directions, practice giving directions when you are by yourself
Remember, bird watching is a recreational activity that is best experienced when you know when you have taken steps to ensure you are prepared