1. Ssshhhh… Be quiet:
2. Master the “freezing” technique:
Let’s face it… birds are flighty. Sudden, jerky movements can frighten them off before you even notice them. Combat this with the freezing technique: stopping every few minutes and standing still to observe your surroundings. You can even find a log or rock to sit on to get comfortable. You’ll be surprised by how much reveals itself.
3. It’s all about timing:
Despite what you might have heard, there is no single, magic time for bird watching. The answer to the age old question of ‘when are birds most active,’ highly depends on what you’re looking for. Songbirds (thruses, robins, blackbirds) are most active at dawn. Foragers are also early risers. Raptors are often spotted in the late morning and afternoon, when sun-warmed air currents help them soar effortlessly through the air. Do some research on what you’re hoping to see, to determine the best time to head out.
4. Get the sun at your back:
This might be the simplest trick in the book! Whatever you’re watching, make sure the sun is behind you. As the sun catches and illuminates your subject’s feathers, the contrast will help you spot new species more easily. Plus you’ll be observing a little more than just a dark silhouette.
5. Study habitat:
Narrow down what you’re hoping to see, then put in the research on the best place to spot them! Sparrows like thickets. Woodpeckers need trees. Meadowlarks like large, open fields. What you spot will depend largely on where you’re looking!
6. Be patient:
Successful birders know how to play the waiting game. Sometimes, all you have to do is stay put, and the birds will reveal themselves!
7. Try pishing:
Try what?! Pishing involves sounds that intrigue birds -- and hopefully even entice them to turn around or come closer. There are two ways to ‘pish’: One is easy, just say the word ‘pish’ itself. This blows air through your clenched teeth. The other involves kissing the back of your hand to make a small, squeaky noise.
8. Dress for the occasion:
While birds aren’t able to detect the same range of colors that us humans do, they can easily notice contrast. Brightly colored clothing (white included!) stands out from the natural environment, so aim for darker, earth-toned outfits from your wardrobe. Dull greys, browns, and greens are your best bet.
9. Follow birding ethics:
Every birder must strictly follow standard birding ethics, to minimize human impact on birds in their natural environments. Be quiet, remain a respectful distance at all times, do not engage in any activities that alter the birds’ natural behaviour (e.g. feeding, strong lights at night), and do not leave any traces of your presence (waste, garbage) behind.
10. Invest in the right gear:
Every birder needs to invest in a solid pair of binoculars. The right tool will last for years, and help you get closer to the action. Take your birding to new heights with hot deals on our Smithsonian Great Outdoors Binocular Set!
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• A special phone adaptor, that allows you to take photos & videos of your binocular view
• The authorized Smithsonian Bird-Watching Guide, full of birding tips and information